Apple’s iOS 18 update introduces a feature that makes sharing Wi-Fi passwords much easier: Wi-Fi QR codes. This innovation is an important solution, especially for those who do not want to bother with entering long and complex passwords. Now iPhone users can easily create a QR code containing network information and share it securely with their guests via the Passwords app on their devices. In this tip article, we explain how you can take advantage of this feature.
How to generate Wi-Fi QR code in iOS 18?
Before iOS 18, users had to resort to third-party applications or special shortcuts to share Wi-Fi information as a QR code. Although these methods were functional, they required a laborious installation process. However, with iOS 18, this process can be completed with a few simple touches in the Passwords application.
You can generate your Wi-Fi QR code by following the steps:
- Open Passwords App: Go to your iPhone’s Settings menu and launch the Passcodes app.
- Go to Wi-Fi Tab: Tap the “Wi-Fi” section in the app and select the network you want to share.
- Show QR Code: After selecting the network, tap “Show Network QR Code”.
The QR code that appears on your screen is now ready. Your guests can scan this code using their device’s camera app and quickly connect to the network.
Usage areas and security of QR code sharing
This new feature offers practical solutions for both personal and professional use. Here are a few examples:
- Share with your guests: When hosting friends or family at home, you can show the QR code instead of telling them the Wi-Fi password. Thus, there is no need to memorize the password or deal with spelling errors.
- Ideal for Airbnb or Guest Networks: If you’re an Airbnb host, you can take a screenshot of the QR code and print it out for your guests. This method makes your guest network easily accessible.
- Use in Events: You can share QR codes to make it easier for participants to connect to the network at meetings, conferences or special events.
However, security measures should also be taken into consideration when using this feature. It is important that you only share the QR code with people you trust. Because anyone with this code can easily access your network. In addition, you can regularly check the saved networks through the Passwords application and update your password if necessary. If you are concerned about the security of the QR code, you can prevent the use of the old code by resetting your network password.
Advantages of iOS 18 Wi-Fi QR code feature
In addition to making daily life easier, this feature also offers many advantages in terms of security and access:
- Forget Complex Passwords: Not having to memorize or share long and complex Wi-Fi passwords is a time-saving innovation.
- Providing Quick Connection: Any iPhone user who points their camera at your QR code can connect to the network in seconds.
- Avoid Direct Password Sharing: By using a QR code, you do not need to share your password with your guests, which helps protect your privacy.
- Temporary Access: Especially for guest networks, providing temporary access via QR code is a practical method.
While this new feature is practical, it may also bring some risks. It is important to consider the following points:
- Secure the Code: Share a screenshot of the QR code only when necessary and be careful not to leave it in public areas.
- Update Network Password: You can make old QR codes invalid by changing your network password from time to time.
- Use Guest Networks: Instead of completely opening your home network, it is a safer method to create a guest network and share QR codes over this network.
Apple took another step in improving the user experience with iOS 18. Wi-Fi QR code sharing stands out as both a practical and secure connection method. From hosts hosting guests to professionals hosting business meetings, this feature offers a time-saving innovation for everyone. However, like any technology, it is important to remember that security precautions should be taken when using this feature.
Exploring this feature of iOS 18 will make things much easier when it comes to Wi-Fi sharing. By following the steps above, you can provide faster and safer internet access for both yourself and your surroundings.