QR Codes Made Simple

I use Quick Response codes because they remove typing errors.
Instead, someone scans a square and lands on a page fast.
Also, they work great on flyers, business cards, and signs.

What a QR Code Really Is

A Quick Response code stores data in tiny black and white squares.
Most often, it stores a web address.
However, it can also store text, phone numbers, or Wi-Fi details.
Because phones read patterns, the pattern must be exact.

Static vs Dynamic QR Codes

A static Quick Response code never changes.
So, it always points to the same web address.
A dynamic Quick Response code points to a redirect service.
Then, you can change the destination later.
However, dynamic codes often cost money.

Why Scannability Matters

Scannability depends on size, contrast, and quiet space.
So, keep it black on white whenever possible.
Also, leave a clean margin around the code.
That margin is called the “quiet zone.”
If you crowd it, scans fail more often.

A Note About “AI-Generated” QR Codes

Some tools can draw something that looks like a QR code.
However, looks do not guarantee correct encoding.
So, I avoid image generators for production QR codes.
Instead, I use real QR encoders every time.

Free Places to Create QR Codes

These tools create real, scannable static codes at no charge.
Also, they are simple enough for anyone.

Web Tool Option 1: The QR Code Generator

Use this when you want quick and easy.
Go to: https://www.the-qrcode-generator.com/
Then paste your web address and download the image.

Web Tool Option 2: QR Code Monkey

Use this when you want more download formats.
Go to: https://www.qrcode-monkey.com/
Then choose a plain code or a styled one.
Also, you can download Scalable Vector Graphics for printing.

Web Tool Option 3: Chrome Built-In QR Code

You probably aren’t aware you can create a QR code using Chrome.
Use this when you already have Chrome open.
First open your page, like https://helpstopsuicide.us
Then right click the icon in the tab above the address bar.
Mouse down to “Move tab to another window”.
Next choose “QR Code Generation Request and …” and save the image.

Making QR Codes on Debian Linux

I like Debian because it gives me control and repeatability.
Also, I can generate perfect codes without third parties.
So, Debian becomes my “factory” for QR code files.

Check that qrencode Is Installed

First, I check whether Debian already has it.
Run this as root:

If you see a version number, you are ready.
If nothing prints, install it next.

Install qrencode on Debian 12

I install it from Debian’s repositories.
Run:

Then confirm:

Create a Clean Static QR Code PNG

Now I generate a code that points to a web address.
For example, run:

That creates a file in your current folder.

Use Better Settings for Printing

For print, I make modules bigger and error correction higher.
Run:

This scans better on flyers and posters.

Create an SVG for Perfect Scaling

Scalable Vector Graphics stays sharp at any size.
So, it is ideal for professional printing.
Run:

Verify the QR Code on Debian

I like verifying before I send it anywhere.
Install a scanner tool:

Then test the image:

You should see the web address in the output.

Moving the QR Code to Windows

I use whichever method matches my setup.
However, I always choose the simplest reliable path.

Option A: VMware Shared Folder

This is great when it works consistently.
First, confirm the shared folder mount exists:

If it works, copy into the shared folder:

Then Windows should show it in that shared folder.

Option B: Secure Copy From Windows

This works even when shared folders fail.
From Windows PowerShell, run:

Replace <vm-ip> with your Debian virtual machine address.
The file downloads into your current Windows folder.

Option C: WinSCP Drag and Drop

This feels easiest for many people.
Install WinSCP from: https://winscp.net/
Then connect using Secure File Transfer Protocol.
Host is your Debian virtual machine Internet Protocol address.
User is root, and port is 22.
Then drag the PNG or SVG to your Windows folder.

Option D: Simple Web Download

This helps when you already host a site on that Debian box.
Copy the file into a web folder you can browse.
Then download it from Windows using a browser.
However, I only do this on trusted internal systems.

My Practical Recommendations

I generate PNG for screens and quick sharing.
Then I generate SVG for anything printed.
Also, I test scans with two phones before printing.
Finally, I keep the code plain for maximum reliability.