How to Make a QR Code for Free
A QR code is just a compact, camera-scannable way to hand someone a link, a Wi-Fi password, or a contact card without them typing anything. Making one takes seconds — getting one that actually scans reliably every time takes a little more care.
Step by step
- Open QR Generator and type or paste what you want encoded — a URL, plain text, or a formatted string for Wi-Fi or a contact card (see below).
- Generate the code. It renders instantly as an image.
- Test it with your phone's camera before you print or publish it anywhere — this catches sizing and contrast problems while they're still easy to fix.
- Download the image and use it wherever you need — printed materials, a slide, a website.
Beyond plain URLs
QR codes can encode more than just links. A couple of useful formats:
- Wi-Fi:
WIFI:T:WPA;S:NetworkName;P:Password;;— scanning it connects automatically, no typing required. - Plain text: Any text at all — a message, a code, an address — works exactly like a URL does.
Making sure it actually scans
- Use a short URL (a link shortener) instead of a long one where possible — less data means a simpler, more scan-tolerant code.
- Keep strong contrast between the code and its background — dark code on a plain light background is the most reliable combination.
- Size it for its viewing distance — a code on a poster needs to be much larger than one on a business card or screen.
- Test with more than one phone before committing to print — camera quality varies more than you'd expect.
Frequently asked questions
How do I make a QR code for Wi-Fi?
Enter it in the format WIFI:T:WPA;S:NetworkName;P:Password;; — replacing NetworkName and Password with your actual network name and password. Scanning it connects the device automatically without typing the password.
Does the QR code expire?
No — the code itself never expires, since it's just an encoded version of whatever text or link you entered. If it points to a URL and that page is later taken down, the code still scans fine, it's just the destination that's gone.
Why won't my QR code scan?
Usually low contrast, a code that's too small for the distance it's being scanned from, or a damaged/obscured corner — QR codes need their finder patterns (the three corner squares) fully visible to be read. Print it larger and test with a couple of different phones before using it anywhere permanent.