I turned my AirTag into the secret Wi-Fi password key - here's how it works

Source: ZDNet

What you’ll need

• NFC tags – available as stickers, keychain disks, or plastic cards. I use NTAG215‑compatible tags because they are cheap, have 504 bytes of memory, and a data‑retention lifespan of at least 10 years or 100 000 write cycles. (NTAG213 tags are cheaper but limited to 137 bytes.)
• NFC reader/writer app – I use NFC Tools, which works on both iOS and Android.

The NTAG215 stickers are cheap and perfect for disposable applications.

How to create an NFC tag

Writing a few dozen tags with a smartphone app is fine, but for larger batches you might consider an industrial setup like the Sato CT4‑LX.

1. Open NFC Tools and tap Write.
2. Tap Add a record, choose URL/URI, enter the web address you want the tag to open, and tap OK.
3. Tap Write again and hold the tag to the back of your phone. The app will detect the tag and write the data.

The NFC Tools app is packed with features.

How to test your NFC tag

Exit the app, hold the tag to the back of your phone, and you should be prompted to open the web page.

Because NFC tags are rewritable, you may want to protect them from tampering. NFC Tools offers two options:

• Password‑protect the tag (useful for reusable tags or cards).
• Lock the tag (quick for disposable stickers).

Choose the method that fits your use case to prevent unauthorized changes.

Pro tip: Share your Wi‑Fi password with an NFC tag

1. In NFC Tools, add a Wi‑Fi Network record.
2. Enter your SSID, password, and security type.
3. Write the tag as described above.

Scanning the tag with a phone will automatically connect the device to your network—perfect for guest Wi‑Fi.

Experiment with the other record types NFC Tools offers; there’s a lot you can do with a simple NFC tag.