How to Create QR Codes for URLs, Wi-Fi, and Contact Cards

QR codes are everywhere — restaurant menus, business cards, product packaging, event tickets. They are a quick way to get someone from the physical world to a digital destination without typing a URL.

Creating one takes seconds and costs nothing.

What QR codes can do

A QR code is just a way to encode text into a scannable image. What happens when someone scans it depends on what text you put in:

• URL — opens a website in the scanner's browser
• Wi-Fi credentials — automatically connects the scanner's device to a Wi-Fi network (no typing the password)
• vCard (contact card) — adds your name, phone number, email, and other contact details to their phone's address book
• Plain text — displays the text on screen
• Email address — opens a new email to that address
• Phone number — prompts to call the number

How to create a QR code

1. Choose the QR code type — select from URL, Text, Wi-Fi network, or vCard (contact card). Enter your content in the appropriate fields.
2. Customize and preview — adjust the error correction level and watch the QR code update in real time as you type.
3. Download your QR code — click "Download as PNG" for digital use or "Download as SVG" for print materials. SVG files scale to any size without losing quality.

Understanding error correction

QR codes have built-in redundancy so they can still be scanned even if part of the code is damaged or obscured. There are four levels:

Higher error correction means the QR code has more data modules (more tiny squares), so it needs to be printed or displayed slightly larger to remain scannable.

Practical uses

For businesses:

• Print on business cards so contacts can save your details with one scan
• Add to product packaging linking to instructions or registration
• Display at your storefront linking to your website or menu

For events:

• Generate Wi-Fi QR codes for guests — no more spelling out passwords
• Link to event schedules, maps, or registration pages
• Add to name badges linking to LinkedIn profiles or portfolios

For personal use:

• Share your Wi-Fi password with visitors without dictating it
• Create a QR code for your personal website or portfolio
• Add to printed invitations linking to RSVP pages

Tips for QR codes that work well

• Test before printing — always scan your QR code with a phone before sending it to print. Test with both iOS and Android if possible.
• Keep URLs short — shorter URLs create simpler QR codes with fewer modules, making them easier to scan at smaller sizes. Use a URL shortener if needed.
• Ensure contrast — QR codes need a clear difference between the dark modules and the light background. Dark on light works best. Avoid low-contrast color combinations.
• Leave quiet space — the white border around a QR code (called the quiet zone) helps scanners detect it. Do not crop it or place other design elements too close.