How to make a QR code
- Choose what the code should do: open a website, join your Wi-Fi, show some text, start an email, call a number or send a text message.
- Fill in the details. The QR code updates as you type.
- Pick a size. Use Print (1000 px) for anything going on paper, so it stays sharp.
- Press Download PNG, then scan it with your own phone to check it works before you print it or send it to anyone.
Do these QR codes expire?
No. This page makes static QR codes: the link or text is stored inside the pattern itself, so it works for as long as the link does, with no account or subscription. Many "free" QR sites make dynamic codes instead. Those point to the company's own server, which then redirects to your link, so the code stops working if you stop paying or the company closes. If you're printing thousands of menus or signs, that matters.
The one thing a static code can't do is change where it points after it's printed. If you think the link might change, point it at a page on your own website that you control.
Wi-Fi QR codes
A Wi-Fi QR code lets guests join your network by pointing their camera at it, without typing a long password. It's handy for holiday lets, cafés, salons, offices and spare rooms. Enter the network name exactly as it appears (it's case-sensitive), the password, and the security type. Most home routers use WPA2 or WPA3, which is the default option. Print it and stick it somewhere guests can see.
Anyone who can see the code can join your network, so for a business it's worth setting up a separate guest network.
Getting a QR code that scans first time
- Keep good contrast. Dark code on a light background works best. Light codes on dark backgrounds don't scan on some phones.
- Print it big enough. As a rough guide, make it at least 2 cm across for every 20 cm of scanning distance. On a business card, 2 to 2.5 cm is fine. On a poster read from a few metres away, go much bigger.
- Leave a quiet border. Keep a clear white margin around the code, about 4 squares wide. The download already includes one.
- Keep links short. Longer text makes a denser pattern that's harder to scan when printed small.
- Error correction lets a code still scan if part of it is damaged or covered. Medium is right for most uses. Choose High if it'll be outdoors, on a curved surface, or might get scuffed.
- Tell people what it does. A few words like "Scan for the menu" or "Scan to join Wi-Fi" get far more scans than a code on its own.
Is it safe to scan QR codes?
QR codes themselves can't harm your phone, but they can link to fake websites. Scammers have stuck fake codes over real ones on car park machines and EV chargers. Before you pay or log in, check the web address your phone shows and that it's the real company's site. When you're making your own codes for printed material, check them again after printing.
Frequently asked questions
Is this QR code generator free?
Yes. It's completely free with no sign-up, no watermark and no limit on how many codes you make.
Do the QR codes expire?
No. The link or text is stored in the QR code itself, so it keeps working as long as the link it points to works.
How do I make a QR code for my Wi-Fi?
Choose 'Join Wi-Fi', enter the network name and password exactly, pick the security type (usually WPA), then download and print the code. Guests can join by scanning it with their camera.
What size should a QR code be?
For print, at least 2 cm across for a business card, and larger for posters. A rough rule is 1 cm of code for every 10 cm of scanning distance.
Can I change the link after printing?
Not with a static QR code. If the link might change, point the code at a page on your own website so you can update it there.
Last reviewed October 2026. QR codes are made in your browser. Nothing you type is sent to us or stored.