If you want to connect to an encrypted Wi-Fi network, you normally need to enter a password. With a smartphone, however, you can avoid typing anything with this neat trick.
All you need is another smartphone or tablet already connected to the network. It works with Android and Apple iOS devices. Below we describe the procedure with two Android smartphones.
First, pick up the phone already connected to Wi-Fi. Go to “Settings”, open “Network & Internet” then “Internet”. At the top of the “Wi-Fi” list is the network you are connected to.
Tap the gear icon to the right of the name. Then tap the “Share” icon. You may need to enter the phone access PIN at this point or use your biometric login to confirm it is you. A QR code will then appear.
Now move on to the second smartphone. There, also go to “Settings”, then “Network & Internet” and “Internet” and set the switch next to “Wi-Fi” to “On”. Next, tap the network you want to connect to, then scroll down a bit and tap “Add device”.
You may now need to re-enter the smartphone PIN or use a biometric login.
You will then see a camera window. Use it to scan the QR code on the first smartphone. This will transfer the Wi-Fi connection data to the second phone and you can then connect immediately.
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This article was originally published on our sister publication PC-WELT and was translated and adapted from German.
