Connecting to Wi-Fi through scanning QR-code is one of the most convenient ways to set up the Internet on Xiaomi, Redmi or smartphones POCO. Instead of manually entering a long password, simply point the camera at a special code and the phone automatically connects to the network, a feature that is especially useful in public places (cafes, airports, hotels), where passwords are often complex and change regularly.
In this article, we will discuss all available scanning methods. QR-Wi-Fi code on shell devices MIUI (12-14, including hidden features and solutions to typical problems, you will learn how to create your own QR-The code for the network, what applications will help if the standard scanner doesn't work, and how to secure the connection from fraudsters. NFC Or the old model, find alternatives.
1. Standard method: scanning through "Wi-Fi settings"
The easiest method is to use the built-in scanner in the Wi-Fi menu. It works on all Xiaomi smartphones with a Wi-Fi menu. MIUI 12 and newer (including Redmi Note) 10/11/12, POCO X3/X4/X5, Mi 11/12/13 The main condition is that the phone must be unlocked (without the need to unlock it). PIN-code or pattern lock on the lock screen).
How to do this:
- 📱 Open the Settings. → Wi-Fi (or swipe down the notification panel and hold the Wi-Fi icon).
- 🔍 In the upper right corner, click on the scanner icon. QR-code (or the "Add network" button» → «Scan. QR-code»).
- 🎯 Put the camera on QR-code (e.g., on a router sticker or screen of another device) The phone automatically recognizes the network and password.
- 🔗 Confirm the connection button Connect.
If the scanner icon is missing, update. MIUI to the latest version or use alternative methods (see section 3). On some firmware, the function is hidden - it can be enabled through Settings. → Additionally. → Functions laboratory (item «QR-wifi»).
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If QR-The code is not scanned, try to increase the brightness of the screen on the device from which the code is shown, or turn on the flashlight on the Xiaomi smartphone for better lighting.
2. How to create QR-code
You can generate. QR-code for your home network to connect guests or other devices quickly, and you don't need third-party apps to do that, but standard tools are enough. MIUI.
Instructions:
- Connect to your Wi-Fi network on your Xiaomi smartphone.
- Go to Settings → Wi-Fi and tap the name of your network.
- Click on the Share icon (or «QR-code) – the system will generate code with network data.
- Save a screenshot of the code or show it to another scanner.
⚠️ Attention: Don't share it QR-It's a code in open chat rooms or social networks, and it contains your network password in an unencrypted form, and it's better for guests to create a guest network on a router with a separate password.
What to do if the “Share” button is not available?
3. Alternative scanning methods QR-wi-fi
If the standard scanner in Wi-Fi Settings doesn’t work (for example, on older versions of MIUI or after resetting), use these methods:
- 🤖 Google Lens (built into Google Photos or as a standalone app): Open the camera, hover at QR-code and tap on the notification of the found network.
- 📷 Standard Scanner app (available on all Xiaomi): Open it from the app menu or through search, then select the Wi-Fi tab».
- 🌐 Browser: Some QR-Wi-Fi codes contain a link to a password page. Scan the code through a browser (like Google Chrome) and it will redirect you to the connection page.
On models with MIUI 11 and older (such as Redmi 8 or Mi A3), you may need to install the QR & Barcode Scanner app from Google Play.
4. Third-party Wi-Fi scanning apps QR-code
If the built-in tools don’t fit, install one of these apps (all free and advertising-free in the core features):
| Annex | Features | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| WiFi QR Generator | Generates and scans codes, supports guest networks, exports to images | Google Play |
| QR Code Reader | Universal scanner with Wi-Fi, URL, contacts. | Google Play |
| Barcode Scanner (ZXing Team) | Open source, without analytics, supports all types of software QR-code | Google Play |
⚠️ Note: When installing third-party scanners, never give them administrator rights or access to the scanner. SMS — This could be a sign of malware.
5. Solving scanning problems QR-code
If Xiaomi’s smartphone does not recognize QR-Wi-Fi code, check out these points:
Brightness of the screen QR-sufficient code (at least 70%)
QR-code is not damaged (no blurring, scratches, glare, etc)
The camera is clean (no dirt on the lens)
In the camera settings, the "Macro" or "Portrait" mode is disabled
Scanner Updated (check the updates in Google Play)-->
Common mistakes and ways to eliminate them:
- 🔄 Code not recognized: Try another scanner (like Google Lens — QR-The code can be generated in a non-standard format (use the generators in section 4).
- 🚫 Mistake in the format: Make sure the code contains Wi-Fi data (SSID Some services only generate codes with SSID passwordless.
- 🔒 Phone asks for password despite QR: This means that the code contains incomplete data. Generate it again with the encryption type specified (WPA2/WPA3).
On custom firmware devices (like LineageOS or Pixel Experience), the standard scanner may not work. ADB-commands for compulsory inclusion of the function:
adb shell settings put global wifi_qr_code_enabled 16.Security: How to Avoid Connecting to a Fraudulent Network
QR-Wi-Fi codes are convenient, but they can be used for phishing, and scammers paste their codes in public places (like cafes) to replace the original ones:
- 🕵️ Transfer your data (logins, passwords) through fake authorization pages.
- 💳 Become a victim of the attack “man in the middle» (MITM), When an attacker intercepts traffic.
- 📱 Infect your phone with a virus through automatically opened pages.
How to protect yourself:
- 🔍 Check the name of the network (SSID) It must be the same as the official one (e.g., the official one, «CoffeeShop_FreeWiFi», not «Free_WiFi_123»).
- 🛡️ Use it. VPN (For example, ProtonVPN or Windscribe when connecting to public networks.
- 🚫 Disable automatic connection to open networks in Settings → Wi-Fi → Additionally. → Smart connection.
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Never enter personal data (bank cards, passwords from social networks) on sites that open immediately after connecting to Wi-Fi via the Internet. QR-Even if the page looks like a familiar service (Vkontakte, Sberbank), it can be phishing.