QR Code Generator

What is a QR Code?

A QR code (Quick Response code) is a two-dimensional barcode that smartphones and other devices can scan to instantly open a URL, display text, or trigger an action. Unlike traditional barcodes that store data in a single horizontal line, QR codes store data in a grid pattern, allowing them to hold hundreds of characters in a small space. They were invented in 1994 and have since become one of the most widely used formats for sharing links, contact details, and information in the physical world.

Common Uses for QR Codes

• Business cards — Add a QR code that links to your portfolio or LinkedIn profile so contacts can save your details with a single scan.
• Restaurant menus — Replace printed menus with a QR code linking to a digital menu that can be updated any time.
• WiFi sharing — Encode a WiFi login so guests can connect without typing a password.
• Product packaging — Link to manuals, setup guides, or promotional pages directly from the box.
• Event check-in — Issue unique QR codes for tickets and scan them at the door.
• Marketing campaigns — Track offline-to-online conversions by adding a QR code to flyers, posters, or print ads.

Why Use a Browser-Based QR Code Generator?

Most QR code services upload your data to their servers, which raises privacy concerns especially when encoding sensitive URLs or internal links. This generator runs entirely in your browser using the Web Crypto API — your text or URL never leaves your device. There is no account required, no rate limit, and no watermark on downloaded images. Generated QR codes are static, meaning they will never expire or stop working.

How to Create a WiFi QR Code

A WiFi QR code lets guests join your network by scanning instead of typing a password. Encode a specially formatted string and most phone cameras will offer to connect automatically:

1. Use the format WIFI:S:<network-name>;T:WPA;P:<password>;; — replace the network name and password, and use WPA for most modern routers (or nopass for open networks).
2. Paste that string into the generator above.
3. Download the PNG and print it or display it where guests can scan it.

Static vs Dynamic QR Codes

The codes generated here are static — the data is baked directly into the image, so they never expire and depend on no third-party server. Dynamic QR codes instead encode a short redirect URL owned by a service, which lets you change the destination or track scans later, but they stop working if that service shuts down or you stop paying. For a fixed URL, WiFi login, or contact card, static codes are simpler, free, and permanent.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the QR codes free to use commercially?

Yes. QR codes generated here are free to use for any purpose, including commercial products, print, and digital media. There are no licensing fees or usage restrictions.

Do the QR codes expire?

No. QR codes generated by this tool are static — the data is encoded directly into the image. They will continue to work as long as the destination URL remains active. Unlike dynamic QR services, there is no server that can go offline and break your codes.

What format is the downloaded QR code?

Downloads are high-resolution PNG files. PNG is a lossless format, so the QR code will stay crisp at any print size. If you need a vector format such as SVG, you can use the downloaded PNG as a source and trace it in a vector editor.

How large can I make the QR code?

You can adjust the size from 128 px up to 512 px using the slider. For large-format printing such as posters or banners, generate at the maximum size and then scale up in your design software — PNG scales reasonably well for print when starting from a high resolution source.

What is the maximum amount of text I can encode?

QR codes can store up to around 4,000 characters, though shorter content produces simpler patterns that are easier for cameras to scan reliably. For best results, keep URLs under 200 characters and use a URL shortener if necessary.

How do I make a QR code for a WiFi network?

Encode a string in the format WIFI:S:NetworkName;T:WPA;P:Password;; and download the resulting PNG. When scanned by a phone camera, it prompts the user to join the network automatically. See the step-by-step guide above.

What is the difference between static and dynamic QR codes?

Static QR codes encode the data directly and never expire — that is what this tool creates. Dynamic QR codes encode a redirect link owned by a paid service, which allows editing the destination and tracking scans, but breaks if that service goes offline.

Why won't my QR code scan?

The most common causes are too much data (which creates a dense, hard-to-read pattern), low contrast between the foreground and background colours, or printing the code too small. Keep strong contrast, shorten the content, and print at a reasonable size for reliable scans.