Hidden networks and guest wifi.
A hidden network is one that does not broadcast its name. WiFi QR codes can join hidden networks, but they need to be told the network is hidden. This guide covers how to encode a hidden SSID, the persistent myth that hiding makes a network safer, and why a guest network is usually the better answer.
What a hidden SSID actually is
Every wifi router has the option to stop broadcasting its network name. Phones searching for available networks will not see it in their list. To join, you have to type the SSID by hand (or scan a QR code that includes the hidden flag). This is sometimes recommended as a security measure. It is not.
Hiding your SSID does not make you safer
A hidden network is not actually invisible. The router still broadcasts its presence, just without the name. Anyone with a basic wifi scanner (free apps for any phone) can see it within seconds. More importantly, your devices that are configured to join a hidden network constantly broadcast its name looking for it, which actually leaks the SSID to anyone within range of those devices.
The security profession has been telling people to stop hiding SSIDs for over a decade. The encryption protects you, not the obscurity.
How to encode a hidden network in a QR
If your network is hidden anyway, the QR code can still join it. The WIFI: format includes an optional H:true flag that tells the phone to expect a hidden SSID. On prettywifi.co, tick the Hidden checkbox on the create page. The poster will look identical, but the underlying QR will include the flag.
When hiding still might make sense
There is one practical reason to hide a network: to keep guests from accidentally joining it instead of the guest network you want them on. If your house has both "Family" (private, hidden) and "Family Guest" (visible), guests can only see the guest one. This avoids the support call later. It is not security, it is UX.
Guest networks are the better path
Almost every router from the last decade can broadcast a guest network: a separate SSID and password that gives internet access but cannot see your other devices. This solves the actual problem most people are trying to solve when they consider hiding their main network.
A QR code for the guest network is what you put on the poster. The main network stays unposted, only known to the people who live or work there.
How to set one up on common routers
High-level steps for the most popular brands:
- Eero, Google Nest WiFi, and Amazon eero: Open the app, find Settings, look for Guest Network. Set an SSID and password, save.
- Asus, Netgear, TP-Link: Log into the router admin (typically 192.168.1.1 or via the brand app), find Wireless > Guest Network, enable, set SSID and password.
- ISP-provided routers (Xfinity, Spectrum, etc): Look in the router web interface for "Guest" or in the ISP app. Some ISPs require you to enable it from a portal page.
The host best practice
For Airbnbs, B&Bs, and any space with rotating guests: run a guest network for the printed QR code. Keep your private network unposted. Rotate the guest password annually. This gives guests instant connection without giving them visibility into your private devices, smart home, or the laptop on the desk in the locked office.
Common questions.
- Should I hide my home WiFi SSID?
- Probably not. It does not improve security and slightly hurts compatibility. The exception is if you want to prevent guests from accidentally connecting to your private network instead of a guest one.
- Does the QR code work for hidden networks?
- Yes. Tick the Hidden checkbox when generating the poster. The QR will include the hidden flag and phones will know to expect it.
- Can one QR code join multiple wifi networks?
- No. The WIFI: standard supports one network per code. If you want to offer a choice (e.g. 2.4GHz and 5GHz on different SSIDs), print two QR codes.
- What is the difference between a hidden network and a guest network?
- A hidden network does not broadcast its name. A guest network is a separate SSID with its own password that does not have access to your other devices. Guest networks are the recommended approach for sharing wifi with visitors.