3 Simplest Ways to Connect to Wi-Fi Without a Password

Connecting to Wi-Fi without a password is easier than you think

How to

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by Radu Tyrsina 

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Key notes

  • Even if you don't know the Wi-Fi password, there are ways to connect to the network.
  • Make sure you have the network owner's permission to access it.
  • Use WPS or DDP to log into the network in simple steps.
connect-wifi-without-password

Nowadays, the majority of Wi-Fi networks are password-protected. As you know, even public ones take extra measures to encrypt data transmissions. So, is there a way to get around that? Today, you’ll learn how to connect to Wi-Fi without a password.

The process, though appears complex, is quick and straightforward, given you know the right tricks. So, here are the best ways you can connect to Wi-Fi without a password on a laptop and mobile.

Is it possible to connect to Wi-Fi without a password?

In short, yes, it is. However, before we dive deeper, here’s what you should know:

Gaining access to someone’s Wi-Fi network without their permission or abidance to the listed terms and conditions, when it comes to public ones, is unethical and violates the law. So, be sure to use the listed methods below only after you’ve received the owner’s approval.

Either way, connecting to Wi-Fi without a password generally requires access to the router and a device already logged into the network. So, how to access a network when you don’t know the password? Below, you’ll find the three simplest methods you can use.

Alternatively, you might want to learn how to find the Wi-Fi password on Windows 11 or some quick solutions when the Wi-Fi not asking for a password.

How do I connect to Wi-Fi without a password?

1. Connect to Wi-Fi without a password using WPS

1.1. On a laptop or desktop

  1. Locate the WPS button on your router and press it.
  2. Click the Wi-Fi icon and choose the name of your network.

1.2. On your mobile phone

  1. Press the WPS button on your router.
  2. Open Wi-Fi settings and choose Connect with WPS.

WPS, or Wi-Fi Protected Setup, is a security protocol that allows for a simple connection to the Internet. It consists of pressing a button on the router to create a network connection accessible by guests/people who don’t have access to a passcode.

After you press the button, you are given a one-minute window to confirm the handshake protocol and connect your device to the network. This is a one-time procedure, and you shouldn’t have to repeat it unless you forget the connection.

Using WPS is a common way to connect to the Internet in a private network since people outside don’t have physical access to the router. This means it’s much safer and easier. With it, users no longer need to manually enter the network’s name and security key.

However, the method is a bit outdated as it is sometimes a target of security issues and vulnerabilities.

2. Access the Wi-Fi network without a password with a DDP

  1. Go to the Settings app on your phone.
  2. Click on Wi-Fi.access-wifi-without-password
  3. Locate your network and tap on it.qr-wifi-password
  4. The Wi-Fi sharing option is now available. A QR code will appear that others can scan if they want to access the network.

DDP (Device Provisioning Protocol), or as it’s also known as Wi-Fi Easy Connect, is considered the more secure option, which is why most modern devices or solutions resort to it. It allows for a tighter seal on data transmission and easier network connectivity, even without a password.

To use this method, first, you must provide a configurator device. It connects to the network and produces a QR code that can be scanned to easily connect to the same Wi-Fi without the password on your laptop, phone, or tablet.

After successfully connecting, it turns into a configurator. In other words, you need a device already connected to the network.

Note that this method works on modern devices (e.g., Android 10+). Older ones cannot share access under the DDP protocol. Though, they can use the QR code to connect to the network if they install a QR Code scanner app.

If you screenshot the QR code, you can also use an online decoder to reveal the password. And if you’ve got a hold of your security key, but want to make sure you remember it next time, here’s how to quickly change your Wi-Fi password in Windows.

3. Gain access to the network via a QR code

Some routers have a QR code on the back that can be scanned if you want to connect to Wi-Fi without a password. However, this method only works for networks with factory settings. Moreover, newer devices may have a QR code for DDP connection instead of WPS.

You need to locate the QR code and scan it with your phone. Alternatively, on your Android device, you can go to the Wi-Fi tab in your Settings app and choose Add network, which will display the option to scan the QR code.

Congrats! Now you know how to connect to Wi-Fi without a password. As you saw, these methods are pretty straightforward.

In the meantime, check out how to view saved Wi-Fi passwords on your Android or iPhone device.

For any queries or to share more ways to connect to a Wi-Fi network, drop a comment below.

More about the topics: Android issues, wifi

Radu Tyrsina

Radu Tyrsina Shield

Radu Tyrsina has been a Windows fan ever since he got his first PC, a Pentium III (a monster at that time). For most of the kids of his age, the Internet was an amazing way to play and communicate with others, but he was deeply impressed by the flow of information and how easily you can find anything on the web. Prior to founding Windows Report, this particular curiosity about digital content enabled him to grow a number of sites that helped hundreds of millions reach faster the answer they're looking for.