How to Share Wi-Fi Password Between Chromebook and Android

This guide shows you two quick ways to share a saved Wi-Fi password between a Chromebook and an Android phone. You’ll be able to move a saved network from one device to the other without typing the password, using either a QR code or Google’s built-in sharing feature.

What You’ll Need

• Both devices signed in to the same Google Account (for the QR code method to work seamlessly).
• Android phone running Android 10 or newer (for the QR code sharing method).
• Chromebook running Chrome OS 89 or newer (for the QR code scanning method).
• Both devices connected to the Wi-Fi network you want to share (the password must already be saved on the source device).

Step-by-Step

Method 1: Share from Android to Chromebook

1. On your Android phone, open Settings.
2. Tap Network & internet (or Connections on some phones).
3. Tap Wi-Fi.
4. Tap the name of the network you’re currently connected to (the one with the gear icon or “Connected” label).
5. Tap the Share button. You may need to verify your identity with your fingerprint, PIN, or password.
6. A QR code will appear on the screen. Keep this screen open.
7. On your Chromebook, click the time area in the bottom-right corner to open the Quick Settings panel.
8. Click the Wi-Fi icon to open the network list.
9. Click the gear icon next to the Wi-Fi toggle to open the full settings page.
10. Click Scan for networks (or look for a QR code icon near the network list).
11. Point your Chromebook’s camera at the QR code on your phone. The Chromebook should automatically detect it.
12. Click Join when the network name appears.

Method 2: Share from Chromebook to Android

1. On your Chromebook, click the time area in the bottom-right corner.
2. Click the Wi-Fi icon to open the network list.
3. Click the network name you’re connected to (not the toggle switch).
4. Click Share in the pop-up window. A QR code will be displayed.
5. On your Android phone, open the Camera app.
6. Point the camera at the QR code on the Chromebook screen.
7. Tap the notification that appears (usually says “Connect to network” or shows the network name).
8. Tap Connect to join the network.

Method 3: Use Google Account Sync (if both devices share an account)

1. On your Chromebook, go to Settings > Connected devices (or Network).
2. Make sure Sync your Wi-Fi networks is turned on.
3. On your Android phone, go to Settings > Google > Backup (or Accounts & sync).
4. Ensure Wi-Fi network data is included in the backup/sync settings.
5. Wait a few minutes for the sync to complete. The network should appear on the other device automatically.

Common Mistakes

• Not being signed in to the same Google Account: The QR code method works without it, but the automatic sync method requires both devices to use the same account.
• Looking for a “Share” button on the Chromebook: It’s not in the main network list. You must click the network name itself to see the option.
• Using an outdated Android version: The QR code share feature requires Android 10 or newer. Older versions may not show the Share button.
• Pointing the camera at the wrong QR code: Make sure you’re scanning the code from the device that has the saved network, not a screenshot or a different code.
• Forgetting to unlock the phone: The Share button on Android often requires biometric or PIN verification before showing the QR code.

Tips

• If the QR code method fails, try the Google Account sync method—it’s more reliable when both devices are on the same account.
• Make sure both devices are on the same Wi-Fi network when sharing. The QR code contains the network name and password, but the receiving device must be within range.
• If you’re sharing a password for a network that isn’t currently connected, you can still share it from the saved networks list on Android (tap “Saved networks” in the Wi-Fi settings).
• For enterprise or captive-portal networks (like hotel Wi-Fi), these methods may not work because the password alone isn’t enough—you may need additional login credentials.
• If the QR code is too small or blurry, move the phone closer to the camera or increase the screen brightness.

Troubleshooting

• The QR code doesn’t scan: Clean the camera lens, increase screen brightness on the device showing the code, and try moving the camera closer. If the code is still not recognized, try the other sharing method.
• The Chromebook doesn’t show a “Scan for networks” option: Some older Chromebooks don’t have a QR scanner built in. Use the camera app instead—open the Camera app, switch to the “Scan” mode if available, and point it at the code.
• The Android phone doesn’t show a Share button: Check that you’re tapping the network you’re currently connected to (not just any saved network). If you’re on Android 9 or older, this feature is not available—use the manual password entry instead.
• Sync doesn’t work: Go to your Google Account settings on both devices and verify that “Sync Wi-Fi networks” is enabled. Also check that both devices are connected to the internet (not just the local Wi-Fi).
• The network appears but won’t connect: The password might have changed since it was saved. Forget the network on the receiving device and try sharing again.
• Nothing happens when you scan: Make sure you’re scanning the QR code with the right app. On Android, the stock Camera app usually works. On Chromebook, the built-in scanner in the Wi-Fi settings is the most reliable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I share a Wi-Fi password from a Chromebook to an iPhone?

No, these methods are specifically for Android and Chromebook devices. iPhones use a different sharing mechanism (Apple’s own system). You’d need to manually type the password on an iPhone.

Do both devices need to be on the same network to share the password?

No, they don’t need to be connected to the same network, but the source device must have the network’s password saved. The receiving device just needs to be within range of the Wi-Fi network to join it.

Will this work for hidden or enterprise networks?

Hidden networks may work if the QR code includes the SSID and password, but it depends on the device. Enterprise networks (like those requiring a username and password) generally won’t work with this method.

Is the QR code a security risk?

Anyone who scans the QR code can see the network name and password. Only share it with people you trust, and be aware that the code is visible on your screen until you close it.

Can I share a saved network that I’m not currently connected to?

Yes, on Android you can go to “Saved networks” in the Wi-Fi settings, tap the network, and then tap the Share button. On Chromebook, you can only share the network you’re currently connected to.

What if the password has uppercase letters or special characters?

No problem—the QR code encodes the exact password, including case sensitivity and special characters. The receiving device will use it exactly as stored.

Related

• Stop iTunes From Updating iOS Software
• Install Apps Without App Store? Yes, Here’s How
• iPhone Won’t Go Into DFU Mode? Fix It