Hidden SSID Wi‑Fi QR Codes

Last updated: December 11, 2025 — See all guides at /guides/

Hidden SSIDs rarely add real security and can make connecting harder. Use this guide to decide when to hide an SSID and how to set up a QR code that still works.

Should you hide your SSID?

When hiding makes sense

Low-traffic environments where you want to reduce casual drive-by joins.
Devices that must stay connected but should be less visible to guests (e.g., IoT gear).

When not to hide

Guest Wi‑Fi networks—broadcast them and rotate passwords instead.
Busy venues where people scan once; hidden SSIDs add extra prompts on many phones.

Security note: Hidden SSIDs are still discoverable with sniffing tools. WPA2/WPA3 + a strong passphrase is the real protection.

How to generate a hidden SSID QR code

In the generator, enter the SSID exactly (case and spacing must match).
Select WPA/WPA2/WPA3 and add the password; avoid open networks for hidden SSIDs.
Check “Hidden network” so the QR includes the hidden flag.
Export at 300–500 px for screen or 800–1200 px for print; keep a clear margin.

Device quirks to test

iOS: Often prompts “Join hidden network?” and may ask you to confirm SSID. Make sure your SSID is short and exact.
Android: Some versions connect immediately; others show a confirmation dialog with security type. Verify on a recent Android version.
Legacy devices: Older scanners may ignore the hidden flag entirely—provide a text fallback nearby.

Best practices

Prefer a broadcast guest SSID with password rotation instead of hiding your main SSID.
Place a small text fallback (SSID + password) near the QR for users whose phones prompt for manual input.
Keep SSIDs human-readable (avoid long random strings) to reduce typos when confirmations appear.
Retest after router firmware updates—some updates change how hidden networks broadcast.

Troubleshooting hidden SSID scans

Phone sees the code but won’t join

Confirm security mode matches the router, and that the hidden flag is enabled. If the phone still stalls, try temporarily broadcasting the SSID to let devices cache it, then hide it again.

Users get repeated prompts

Simplify the SSID, raise the QR error correction to Q/H, and increase the quiet zone. Consider moving to a broadcast guest SSID for smoother onboarding.

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