Do QR codes expire?
The pattern of a QR code never expires. What can stop is the service behind it. It all depends on the kind of code you printed.
Can a static QR code expire?
No. A static code holds the link, Wi-Fi details or contact card directly; it goes through no service. It works as long as its destination exists.
If it “stops working”, the destination changed: site closed, page moved, Wi-Fi password changed. The full diagnosis is in my QR code isn’t working.
Why can a dynamic QR code stop working?
A dynamic code holds a short address owned by the service, which then redirects to your destination. If the service stops redirecting, the printed code leads nowhere.
Some sites offer a “free” dynamic code that stops when a trial ends. For example, QR Code Generator’s official help centre says dynamic codes are deactivated when the trial ends; see the QR Code Generator Pro alternative.
How do I get a QR code with no expiry date?
The safest option is a static code: free, no account, depending on nobody. You can make one right now with the free generator.
If you need to change the destination, you necessarily rely on a service. Pick one that states in writing what happens when you cancel.
How can I tell if my code is static or dynamic?
Scan it and look at the address shown before opening it: if it’s the service’s short link (not your site), it’s dynamic. Wi-Fi and vCard codes are always static.
What happens at Scanotte if I stop paying?
If you stop paying, nothing dies overnight: whatever fits the free plan keeps working as usual, and the rest keeps redirecting, read-only, for 12 months before showing an “expired” page. Picking a plan again brings everything back.
Your static codes are free and don’t depend on Scanotte at all. And the free plan isn’t a trial: its editable code has no end date.
How do I stop a printed code from breaking?
Before printing a dynamic code, read what the service does at the end of a trial and after cancelling, and keep a written record. For permanent use with no changes, a static code is enough.
- Test the code with two phones before printing.
- Check the service’s “cancellation” or “trial end” page.
- Keep access to the account that manages your dynamic codes.
- Make sure the destination page still exists.
Do QR codes stop working after a certain number of scans?
A static code has no scan limit: nothing counts its scans. Some services do cap scans on their free or entry plans for dynamic codes; check their pricing page.
At Scanotte, editable codes have no scan limit on any plan; plans differ by the number of codes, short links, pages and the length of statistics.
Frequently asked questions
Do Wi-Fi QR codes expire?
No, they’re static. They work as long as the network name and password stay the same.
My “free” code stopped working. Why?
It was probably a dynamic code tied to a trial or subscription. Scan it to see which service it goes through, and check their terms.
Can a dynamic code be reactivated?
That depends on the service. At Scanotte, picking a plan again reactivates all your codes.
Is a static code worse?
No, it’s actually sturdier. It just can’t change destination or count scans.