How QR Codes Work

In today’s digital world, QR Codes are everywhere—on restaurant menus, product packaging, tickets, ads, and more. These two-dimensional barcodes have transformed how we connect the physical and digital, providing instant access to online content with a single scan.

But how do QR Codes actually work? Let’s break down their structure, scanning process, and real-world uses.

A QR Code (Quick Response Code) is a type of matrix barcode invented in 1994 by Denso Wave in Japan. Unlike traditional one-dimensional barcodes, QR Codes store data both vertically and horizontally.

This design means they can hold far more information—URLs, plain text, phone numbers, or even geolocation data.

QR Codes are made up of black and white squares arranged in a grid pattern. Each section has a specific purpose that helps scanners read the code:

1. Positioning Markers – Three large squares in the corners that show the scanner orientation and size.
2. Alignment Marker – A smaller square that improves readability on curved or skewed surfaces.
3. Timing Pattern – Alternating modules that help map the data cells.
4. Version Information – Present in larger QR Codes, indicating the code’s size and data capacity.
5. Data & Error Correction Cells – The encoded information plus error correction modules, ensuring readability even if the code is damaged.

Modern smartphones make scanning QR Codes effortless. The process works in three steps:

1. Image Capture – The camera takes a snapshot of the code.
2. Data Extraction – The software identifies positioning markers, aligns the grid, and maps out the data pattern.
3. Decoding – The pattern of squares is converted into binary code, which translates into readable data such as a URL or text.

Learn more about click tracking and how QR Codes integrate with analytics.

A key strength of QR technology is error correction. QR Codes can still be read if they’re dirty, faded, or partially obscured. Four error correction levels exist:

• L (Low): Restores up to 7% of data
• M (Medium): Restores up to 15%
• Q (Quartile): Restores up to 25%
• H (High): Restores up to 30%

This flexibility is why QR Codes work reliably on everything from glossy packaging to weathered outdoor posters.

One way to make QR Codes stand out is by branding them with a logo. A custom logo helps reinforce trust and brand recognition while keeping the code fully functional. Thanks to error correction, QR Codes can often be scanned successfully even when a small portion of the design is replaced by a logo.

You can learn how to add a logo to a QR Code and customize its appearance for stronger engagement.

There are two main types of QR Codes: static and dynamic. Here’s a quick comparison:

Dynamic QR Codes are especially powerful when combined with custom domains for brand consistency and improved trust.

QR Codes are now part of everyday life across industries:

• Directing customers to websites, apps, or social profiles
• Sharing contact details or text
• Auto-connecting to Wi-Fi networks
• Enabling mobile payments and banking
• Validating tickets, coupons, or event access
• Powering QR Code analytics for marketers

They can even be branded with custom domains or styled with logos for stronger engagement.

QR Codes are simple in design but powerful in function. With just a quick scan, they connect offline interactions to digital experiences, making them an essential tool for marketers, businesses, and consumers alike.

If you want to go beyond the basics, Linkly lets you create dynamic QR Codes, add tracking, and view real-time analytics.

Ready to unlock the full potential of QR Codes? Get started with Linkly today.