4 Easy Ways to Share WiFi Without Revealing Your Password

If you frequently have guests and friends coming over, the first thing they usually ask for is your WiFi password. While you don't want to disappoint them, you also don't want to compromise the security of your network. So, is there a way to find a middle ground?

Luckily, there are several ways to share your WiFi without giving away your password. Let's explore these options:

Connect Automatically with WPS

Most WiFi devices have a feature called WPS (WiFi Protected Setup) that allows you to connect your devices without revealing your complex password. WPS was initially developed to connect devices like printers, WiFi repeaters, and IoT devices. However, it is also supported by most Android and Windows computers.

To use WPS on your Android smartphone, go to Settings > Network and Internet > WiFi. Scroll down to WiFi preference and tap on Advance. Look for “WiFi Push Button” and tap on it. Then, go to your WiFi router and press the WPS button. Your Android device will automatically connect to the WiFi network without the need for a password.

Pros:

• Quick and easy connection to the WiFi network.

Cons:

• Not always convenient if someone requests access to your WiFi network at a moment's notice.
• WPS PINs are only eight digits long and can be easily cracked by hackers.

Scan QR or NFC Tags to Connect to WiFi

You can create QR codes for your WiFi password using various sites and apps. For Android users, there are QR code apps available that allow you to share your WiFi password with just a scan. You can also use NFC tags to connect your guest's Android smartphone to your WiFi network using apps like WiFiKeyShare.

To connect, your guest will need to scan the QR code using a QR code scanner app or their iPhone's camera (iOS 11 or higher).

Pros:

• Easy connection by scanning QR codes or using NFC tags.
• No need to install additional apps for scanning QR codes.

Cons:

• Not all smartphones have NFC capabilities.
• QR codes and NFC tags may be unfamiliar to some guests.

Use Router Guest Mode

Router guest mode is like the front door of your house, allowing guests to access a limited portion of your network. Instead of sharing your regular WiFi network, you can ask your guests to connect to the guest network, which has a separate passphrase.

To set up guest mode, log in to your router's admin page and enable the Guest Network option under Wireless settings. Enter a new Network Name (SSID) and set up a simple password. This way, you can have a strong password for your regular network and a simpler one for the guest network.

Pros:

• No need to reveal your main WiFi passphrase.
• Guests do not have access to shared files on the network.
• Bandwidth usage and schedule can be limited for the guest network.

Cons:

• Guest mode can be less secure than the main network.

Create WiFi Hotspot from Your Device

You can turn your Windows computer into a WiFi hotspot to share your WiFi connection. Additionally, with an app called Netshare, you can create a WiFi hotspot from your Android device even when it is connected to WiFi. However, this method is not ideal for long-term use.

Pros:

• Share WiFi connection directly from your device.

Cons:

• Not suitable for guests staying for an extended period.

Now you have several options to share your WiFi without giving away your password. Remember to prioritize the security of your network and choose the method that suits your needs.