The fastest way depends on what device you're using

On iPhones and iPads running iOS 16 or newer, you can hand your device to someone and let them connect without typing anything. On Android phones, Windows computers, and older iPhones, you'll need to either tell them the password, show them where to find it in your settings, or use a QR code. The method you choose depends on which devices everyone has and how often they need to reconnect.

The password itself is usually printed on a sticker attached to your router — the box that sends out the WiFi signal. If you've changed it since you set up the router, you'll need to find it in your router's settings instead. Most people don't need to change their password unless they suspect someone unauthorized is using their network.

Key Takeaways

  • On iPhone and iPad with iOS 16 or newer, hold your unlocked phone near the guest's phone and they can connect without typing the password.
  • The WiFi password is usually on a sticker on your router, or you can find it in your router's settings by logging in through a web browser or app.
  • Android phones, Windows computers, and older iPhones require the password to be typed in manually or scanned from a QR code.
  • You can generate a QR code from your router's settings that guests can scan instead of typing a long password.
  • Changing your password is optional unless you want to remove someone's access or suspect unauthorized use.

Sharing WiFi on iPhone and iPad (iOS 16 and newer)

If both you and your guest have iPhones or iPads running iOS 16 or later, the easiest method is the built-in share feature. Unlock your phone and hold it close to the guest's phone — within a few inches. Their phone will show a notification asking if they want to join your WiFi network. They tap "Join" and the connection happens automatically without typing anything.

This only works if your phone is unlocked and you're holding it near theirs. If your guest has an older iPhone, iPad, or any Android device, this method won't work and you'll need to use one of the other options below. The feature also requires both devices to have Bluetooth turned on, though WiFi doesn't need to be on for the receiving device.

Finding your WiFi password on the router

Your router — the device that broadcasts WiFi — usually has a sticker on the bottom or back with the network name and password printed on it. The network name is called the SSID. Look for a label that says "WiFi Password", "Network Key", "PSK", or sometimes just "Password". The password is typically a long string of letters, numbers, and symbols.

If you can't find the sticker or it's worn away, you can log into your router's settings through a web browser or mobile app. Open a browser on a computer or phone connected to your WiFi and type the router's IP address — usually 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 — into the address bar. You'll be asked to log in with a username and password, which are often "admin" and "admin" or printed on the router itself. Once logged in, look for a section labeled "WiFi Settings", "Wireless", or "Network" to find your password.

Different router brands have different layouts. If you're not sure where to look, the router's manual or the manufacturer's website will show you the exact steps. Common router brands include Netgear, TP-Link, Linksys, and Arris — your internet provider may have given you a branded version of one of these.

Telling guests the password or typing it in for them

The most straightforward method is straightforward reading the password aloud or writing it down. On the guest's phone or computer, they open their WiFi settings, select your network name from the list, and type in the password exactly as it appears — including capital letters, numbers, and symbols in the right order. Passwords are case-sensitive, so "MyPassword" is different from "mypassword".

If the password is long or complicated, it's straightforward to make a typo. You can reduce mistakes by spelling it out letter by letter, or by letting them copy and paste it from a text message or email. Some people find it helpful to break the password into chunks — for example, reading "ABC123def" as "A-B-C, 1-2-3, d-e-f" — to make it easier to follow.

Using a QR code to share your password

Many routers can generate a QR code that guests can scan with their phone's camera instead of typing the password. To find this feature, log into your router's settings using the method described above, then look for a section about WiFi settings or guest network. Some routers have a dedicated "QR Code" button or option that displays the code on screen.

Once you see the QR code, your guest opens their phone's camera app, points it at the code, and taps the notification that appears. Their phone will automatically connect to your WiFi without them typing anything. This method works on most modern iPhones and Android phones. If your router doesn't have a built-in QR code feature, you can use a free online QR code generator — type in your network name and password, and it will create a code you can display or print.

Setting up a guest network instead

If you share your WiFi frequently or want to give people access without sharing your main password, most routers let you create a separate guest network. This is a second WiFi network with its own name and password that guests connect to instead of your main one. You can change the guest password whenever you want without affecting your main network or any devices already connected to it.

To set up a guest network, log into your router's settings and look for "Guest Network", "Guest WiFi", or "Guest Access". You'll be able to name the network and create a password for it. Some routers let you set an expiration date for the guest network so it automatically turns off after a certain time. This is useful if you're hosting a party or having contractors in your home — you can turn off their access without changing your main password.

Changing your WiFi password

You only need to change your password if you want to remove someone's access, suspect unauthorized use, or want a password that's easier to remember. To change it, log into your router's settings, find the WiFi or wireless settings section, and look for an option to change the password or "PSK" (pre-shared key). Enter your new password — aim for at least 12 characters mixing letters, numbers, and symbols — and save the changes.

When you change the password, all devices currently connected to your WiFi will stay connected, but they won't be able to reconnect if they disconnect. You'll need to give them the new password and have them reconnect manually. If you have many devices, this can take time, so change your password when it's convenient for everyone in your household.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I share my WiFi password without telling them the actual password?

Yes. On iPhone and iPad with iOS 16 or newer, you can use the automatic share feature by holding your phone near theirs. You can also generate a QR code they can scan, or set up a separate guest network with its own password. These methods let people connect without knowing your main password.

What if my guest has an older phone or device?

Older phones and most Android devices require the password to be typed in manually. You can read it aloud, send it in a text message, or write it down. Make sure they type it exactly as it appears, including capital letters and symbols, since passwords are case-sensitive.

Is it safe to share my WiFi password?

Sharing your password with trusted guests is generally safe. If you're concerned about security, create a guest network instead so they don't have access to your main network or connected devices. You can also change your password after they leave or set an expiration date on the guest network.

Why isn't the automatic share feature working on my iPhone?

The automatic share feature only works on iOS 16 and newer, and both phones must have Bluetooth turned on. Your phone must be unlocked and held within a few inches of the guest's phone. If their phone is older or running an older version of iOS, they'll need to enter the password manually instead.

Where do I find my router's login information?

The username and password to log into your router are usually printed on a sticker on the router itself, often on the bottom or back. If you can't find them, check the router's manual or the manufacturer's website. The default is often "admin" for both username and password, though some routers use different defaults.