How to Generate a QR Code from a URL

Every link you shorten on URLNIX automatically gets a scannable QR code — no extra steps required. You can view it, download it as a high-resolution PNG, and track QR scans separately from direct link clicks.

How to Get Your QR Code

When you shorten any URL on URLNIX, the QR code is generated automatically. To access it:

  1. Go to your Dashboard and find the link in your links table
  2. Click the link row to open the detail panel
  3. Select the QR Code tab
  4. Preview the QR code — scan it with your phone camera to verify it works
  5. Click Download PNG (Pro) to save the high-resolution file

QR Code Specifications

URLNIX generates QR codes using the QR Code standard (ISO/IEC 18004). Default specifications:

  • Error correction level: M (recovers up to 15% of damaged modules) — good balance of data density and scan reliability
  • Output format: PNG with transparent background support
  • High-resolution download: 1024×1024 px (Pro) — sufficient for most print applications up to A3 size at 300 DPI
  • Color: Dark foreground on transparent/white background by default; customizable on Pro

Best Practices for Printing

Minimum size. Print QR codes at a minimum of 1 inch × 1 inch (2.5cm × 2.5cm). Anything smaller may be difficult to scan, especially with older camera apps.

Contrast. High contrast between the QR code and its background is critical. Dark code on white works best. Avoid placing the QR code on patterned backgrounds or photos.

Test before printing. Always scan your QR code after designing your print layout but before sending it to the printer. Resize and bleed effects in design tools can sometimes distort the code.

Quiet zone. Leave at least 4 modules of white space (the "quiet zone") around the QR code. Most templates and design tools handle this automatically, but check before printing full batches.

Tracking QR Scans

QR code scans are logged separately from direct link clicks in your URLNIX analytics. Each scan records: device type, operating system, country, city, and timestamp. Since QR codes are almost always scanned on mobile phones, device type will typically show as "mobile."

Use this data to:

  • Measure how effective printed materials are (flyers, posters, product packaging)
  • Compare QR vs. direct link traffic for the same campaign
  • Track geographic distribution of QR scans at physical events

QR Codes and Link Editing

The QR code encodes your short link (e.g., urlnix.live/abc), not the final destination URL. This means:

  • If you update the destination URL (Pro feature), the QR code still works — it just points to the new destination
  • If you delete the short link, the QR code stops working (same as clicking the link)
  • The QR code does not change when you update the destination

This is particularly useful for printed materials. Print a QR code once, and you can change where it leads without reprinting.