Does scanning QR Codes require an internet connection?

Use this guide to understand whether scanning QR Codes generated using the QR Batch tool requires an active internet connection.

The necessity of the Internet while Scanning the QR Codes

Technically, you do not need an active internet connection to just 'scan' a QR Code. The data stored in the tiny squares of the QR Code, known as the data matrix or data modules, can be read by scanners to access the encoded information. However, accessing the target content depends on the specific QR code generated by the tool—QR Batch focuses on Static QR Codes, not Dynamic ones. For more details on the QR Code type please see: Static vs. Dynamic QR Codes

The Basics: Static QR Codes Only

QR Batch is specifically designed to create Static QR Codes in bulk. Unlike Dynamic QR Codes, which can be edited after creation, Static QR Codes work forever once generated. Static QR Codes directly store the target content—be it text, numbers, alphanumeric characters, or even web links.

Categories Not Requiring Internet Connection

The most categories of the QR Codes you can create using the QR Batch tool don't need an active internet connection for scanning. Here are the categories:

• Simple Text: These QR Codes can carry simple text like quotes, product details, or user guides. No internet access is required to scan them
  
  
• Random Code: You can create QR Codes containing randomly generated codes or numbers. Ideal for promotions or raffles, these also don't require an internet connection
  
  
• Static VCard: The Static VCard QR Codes generated through QR Batch contain contact details and can be scanned without the need for internet access
  
  
• Serial Code: These QR Codes are specially designed to store serial numbers and do not require an internet connection for scanning

The Exception: Website URL QR Codes

While most categories of Static QR Codes in the QR Batch do not require internet connectivity, the Website URL category is an exception. When you scan a QR code that contains a Website Link/URL, you will need internet access to open the link and view the content.

Whether or not a QR Code requires an internet connection depends on its type—Static or Dynamic—and the Content it carries. Hence, it is recommended to test and scan the QR Code before adding it to your print media or digital creatives.