Have you ever wondered if QR Codes are permanent or if they expire? Well, trust me, you’re not alone! A lot of people think that once they create a QR Code, it will last forever. But is that really the case?
The truth is that not all QR Codes are built in the same manner. Some are permanent QR Codes, while others can expire or become useless over time.
So, how do you make sure that your QR Code lasts forever? The more important question is whether there is a permanent QR Code generator that you should use.
In this blog article, we’ll break it all down in the simplest way possible. It’s a guarantee that by the end of this blog, you’ll learn everything you need to know about permanent QR Codes, how to create a permanent QR Code, and why some QR Codes stop working over time.
Let’s get started!
A. What is a permanent QR Code?
A permanent QR Code is a QR Code that never stops working, no matter how much time passes. This means that it doesn’t expire, break, or become useless over time.
Sounds great, right? But here’s the thing: not all QR Codes are truly permanent. What does it mean? Well, many people think that once you make a QR Code, it’s good forever.
But the thing is, some QR Codes become inactive, particularly if they’re connected to something that doesn’t exist anymore.
That’s why knowing the difference between static and dynamic QR Codes is important when selecting a permanent QR Code maker.
Let’s understand this in detail. Keep reading!
B. Types of QR Codes: Permanent vs. temporary QR Codes
By now, you know that not all QR Codes are the same. Some QR Codes last forever, and others become obsolete (useless) sooner than you think.
So, there are two primary types of QR Codes that exist, and understanding the difference between them will help you pick the correct one for long-term use.
1. Static QR Codes (The “Forever” QR Codes – But Not Really)
A static QR Code is considered permanent (by default). This is because once you make a static QR Code, the information within cannot be altered or edited.
So, regardless of how many times people scan it, it will always point to the same data.
Why do static QR Codes appear permanent?
Well first, they don’t have an expiration date or time limit, and that’s a reason big enough to consider them permanent.
Secondly, they can be printed, shared, and scanned indefinitely (as long as the data that the QR Code links to exists, the QR Code exists).
Why are static QR Codes NOT actually permanent?
Now, here comes the interesting part. Imagine this: the website URL that the QR Code links to gets changed. In this case, the QR Code no longer remains functional.
This means that if the information it points to is deleted or changed, the QR Code will be worthless.
If it has old contact information, expired promotions, or bad/outdated information, you can’t edit it. Ultimately, you’ll have to make a new one.
It’s like writing something with a permanent marker; once it’s written, you can’t erase it. The QR Code itself never goes bad, but if what it points to changes, it’s worthless.
For Example:
Picture this: You print a fixed QR Code on your business card that directs users to your portfolios. After several years, you revise your portfolio with a new website address.
However, your previous QR Code still leads to your old website, which means whoever scans it will no longer view your current work. Here, you have to remake and reprint the business cards from scratch just to correct the QR Code!
2. Dynamic QR Codes (The Truly Permanent QR Codes)
A dynamic QR Code is both editable and flexible. This means that even after printing or sharing it, you can change its destination without altering the QR Code itself.
This ensures that your QR Code never becomes outdated or useless. And there’s no need to reprint QR Codes again to change the data inside them.
Why are dynamic QR Codes really permanent?
You can change the destination of a dynamic QR Code (website, document, video, or other material) anytime.
Even if a link is broken, you can replace it with another one. You don’t need to reprint or recreate the QR Code if the information gets changed or is updated.
Permanent QR Code (dynamic) providers also help you monitor scans so you can track engagement.
Why is this significant?
Suppose you have a dynamic QR Code printed on the packaging for a product. When you first started this QR Code campaign, it used to point to an instruction guide.
Twelve months later, you changed the guide to suit the updated safety precautions. Now, rather than having to reprint fresh QR Codes, you merely need to refresh the attached document and the same QR Code will point to the updated data!
Dynamic QR Codes are truly the forever QR Codes because they are flexible, revisable, and dependable.
C. Are QR Codes permanent or temporary?
Yes, they are usually temporary, but permanent QR Code generators do exist.
The short version: Some QR Codes are forever, and others become obsolete.
The long version: It depends on whether you use a static or dynamic QR Code.
Static QR Codes are sometimes referred to as “permanent” because they don’t expire and will always hold the same data.
But if the content they point to is deleted or altered, they’re useless. Once printed or shared, you can’t change them and you’d need to make a new QR Code.
Dynamic QR Codes, on the other hand, are the real permanent QR Codes. They never go out of date since their content can be updated at any time.
Even if the initial link becomes invalid, you can repair it without modifying the QR Code. They provide more long-term reliability and flexibility.
So, do QR Codes last forever? Yes, but only dynamic QR Codes remain useful forever since they can always be updated and repaired.
D. Why do some QR Codes stop working?
Have you ever reached a dead link (website) after scanning a QR Code? Well, it happens more often than you know, and here’s why:
1. The website or URL has changed or been deleted
This is the most common reason why QR Codes fail. If a static QR Code redirects to a webpage that gets deleted or altered after the QR Code is deployed, the QR becomes useless.
Imagine this: A restaurant generates a static QR Code menu that points to a PDF. After a few months, they changed their menu, but the previous link is no longer valid.
All customers scanning the QR Code now receive an error message rather than the new menu.
The Solution? Instead of a static QR Code, generate a dynamic QR Code so you can easily change the link at any time without having to replace the QR Code.
2. The QR Code was printed too small or got damaged
QR Codes must be large enough for people to scan them easily.
Also, there should be an appropriate contrast between the background and foreground of the QR Code for it to be easily readable.
Typical errors that usually lead to scanning problems:
1. Printing the QR Code too small is one of the most common errors (it must be at least 2 cm x 2 cm)
2. Printing with low contrast (such as a yellow QR Code on a white background). Nobody wants to face a struggle while scanning QR Codes. That clashes with their sole purpose of convenience
3. Printing on low-quality material that leads to fading
4. The QR Code is scratched or creased, and it can no longer be read
Let’s say a business prints a QR Code on a billboard, but you later discover that it’s too small for distant scanning. The public finds it difficult to use, and therefore, it fails to make the impact it should have made.
The Solution? Make QR Codes in high quality, large enough in size, and printed properly. Here’s a detailed QR Code guide to get the most out of your QR Code campaigns.
3. The QR Code generator had a time limit, or the QR expired
Some of the free QR Code generators have a time limit on QR Codes. Within some amount of time, the QR Code becomes useless.
Typical problems with free QR Codes:
1. Some free generators make QR Codes available for a few weeks only
2. Others restrict the number of scans within a month before rendering the QR Code useless
Consider this scenario: A company prints thousands of QR Code flyers from a free QR Code generator.
One month later, the QR Code is no longer working since the free plan has expired. Now, they need to recreate all their marketing materials. That’s double printing costs and very low ROI.
The Solution? Always consider a stable, permanent QR Code generator that provides unlimited scans and no expiration. Try Scanova’s free QR Code generator today!
E. How to create a permanent QR Code (that works forever) using a permanent QR Code generator?
If you want to create a permanent QR Code that will last forever, just follow these steps:
Step 1: Pick a reliable permanent QR Code generator
Not all QR Code generators create true permanent QR Codes. Choose the one that offers dynamic QR Codes so that you can edit the content anytime in the future if the need arises.
There are a number of permanent QR Code generators available online, and finding the right one for your needs can be tricky and time-consuming, but don’t worry. I’ve got you covered.
Here’s an awesome in-depth guide comparing several permanent QR Code generators. This will help you pick one swiftly.
Step 2: Select the type of QR Code you need
Next, you need to choose the type of content you want to connect your QR Code to. Do you want to link it to a website, a PDF, a menu, or a social media profile?
Step 3. Generate the QR Code
For the purpose of this guide, we’ll be using Scanova’s permanent QR Code generator to show you how you can create QR Codes that will last forever.
1. Go to Scanova’s Permanent QR Code Generator.
2. On the page that loads, depending on your intended use case and what information you want to encode in the QR Code, you can select your preferred QR Code category from the available options
3. Next, enter the data into the input field provided by the scanova’s interface
Note: Depending on the data type you choose, you need to input a website URL, a text message, contact details, or other relevant information.
4. Once you’re done, click Continue
5. On the next page, you’ll be asked to give a name to your QR Code, something to remember it by.
Also, note that it could be a dynamic QR Code, which allows you to edit its content at any time, or a static one, which, in contrast, cannot be modified once created
6. After specifying the details, click on Create QR Code
7. Once done, you’ll find the QR Code details along with the preview of the QR Code. Under the QR Code’s image, you’ll find the Edit Design option. You can use this option to customize the look and appearance of your scan code
Pro Tip: A nicely designed scan code receives more attention and is scanned more often than a simple black-and-white one.
This next section is about how you can design your permanent QR Codes; if you want a simple black-and-white one, you can skip ahead to the steps.
Remember that Scanova needs you to register for a free trial to access the advanced customization tools. See pricing information here.
Step 4: Customize It
Scanova also offers additional customization options, such as color schemes, logo integration, and more.
A custom logo makes your QR Code memorable and enhances your brand identity. Rather than going for a generic design, you can customize it to make it stand out.
To do that, upload a PNG, JPG, or JPEG image of your logo, or you can even go for a text-based logo in the editor. A branded QR Code appears professional and credible.
You can personalize your QR Code’s colors, patterns, and gradients to match your brand. Click the “Continue Editing” button to edit the Eyes and data modules for a sleek appearance.
You can take it up a notch and use the “Make Transparent” option under the Background tab to make your QR Code’s background transparent.
This will help you blend your QR Code within your design materials flawlessly, just ensure proper contrast to prevent scanning problems.
8. Once you’re done, click “Done Editing” and move to the next step.
Step 5: Test it before printing
Always test your QR Code before sharing or printing it. Make sure it scans correctly and leads to the right content.
9. Once the customization is complete, you can preview the QR Code to see if everything’s right. Click Download.
Note: Clicking on the download option will open a signup window. You can create an account and initiate a 14-day free trial. Don’t worry; your card details are not required.
After signing up, you can download the scan code by tapping on it.
10. Once you click the download icon, a window will appear, allowing you to choose the image format and size. Once selected, click Export to finalize the process.
Now you know how you can create permanent QR Codes! Are you ready to take your marketing to greater heights?
Step 6: Keep your content updated
If you’re using a dynamic QR Code, update the content as needed, so your QR Code remains useful forever.
F. How to choose the best permanent QR Code generator?
Not all QR Code generators are the same. If you want a permanent QR Code generator, here’s what to look for:
1. Supports Dynamic QR Codes: Allows you to update content anytime
2. No Expiration: The QR Codes should work forever
3. Customization Options: Allows you to change colors, add logos, and style your QR Code
4. Analytics & Tracking: Helps you track scans and engagement
5. Error Correction: Ensures your QR Code works even if it gets slightly damaged
6. Custom Domains: Use your own branded link instead of a generic one
7. Integrations: Connects with Google Analytics, CRM tools, and marketing platforms
G. FAQs: Permanent QR Code generator
1. How do I create a permanent QR Code?
To create one, use a permanent QR Code generator like Scanova. It’s better to choose a dynamic QR Code so you can edit it anytime.
2. Do QR Codes last forever?
It depends. Static QR Codes last forever but cannot be changed. Dynamic QR Codes last forever AND can be updated.
3. How do I get a QR Code that doesn’t expire?
By choosing a dynamic QR Code from a trusted generator like Scanova, you can actually create QR Codes that don’t expire.
4. How do I make a QR Code last forever?
Use a permanent QR Code generator that offers dynamic QR Codes.
5. Can I create a free permanent QR Code?
Yes! Some QR Code generators, including those generated using Scanova’s free tool, offer free QR Codes that last forever.
7. How to make a QR code that doesn’t expire?
To create a QR code that doesn’t expire, follow these simple steps: Go to Scanova’s free QR code generator > Select the QR code category you want to create > Enter your content > Click Download.
8. Do Canva QR codes expire?
No, Canva QR codes are static and do not expire.
9. Is Scanova a good free QR Code generator with no expiration?
Yes, Scanova offers a reliable QR Code Generator that is both free and offers lifetime QR Codes. It provides static QR Codes without any hidden terms or expiration dates.
10. Can I customize QR Codes with a free generator?
Basic customization is available, but advanced options like adding logos, changing patterns, and full branding are limited in free QR Code generators.
Final Thoughts: Get a QR Code that lasts forever
If you’re looking for a permanent QR Code generator, go for one that offers dynamic QR Codes.
Unlike static QR Codes, they let you update content anytime, making them truly permanent.
Want a QR Code that doesn’t expire? Scanova’s QR Code Generator is a great option. It ensures your QR Codes last forever, stay editable, and remain scannable.
Start creating your permanent QR Code today with Scanova!