Ubiquitous in our daily lives, QR codes are full of useful information. Whether to access a digital menu, download an app or connect to a Wi-Fi network, the possibilities offered by these little black and white squares are endless. But how you can easily scan them under Windows ? Don’t panic, this comprehensive article walks you step-by-step through the various options available, simplifying the technical terms for optimal understanding.

Scan a QR code using the Windows Camera app

Windows Modernize 1903, the Camera app includes a native QR code reader. To use it, follow these simple steps:

  1. Open the Camera app. You can find it at Principle or by searching in the taskbar.
  2. Make sure the rear camera is selected.
  3. Place the QR code in the field of view of the camera. The app will automatically detect it and display a notification.
  4. Click on the notification to view the information contained in the QR code. You can then perform the corresponding action, such as opening a web link, downloading a file, or connecting to a Wi-Fi network.
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Tips:

  • If your laptop doesn’t have a rear camera, you can use an external webcam.
  • You can also zoom in on the QR code to make it easier to locate.
  • For more options, click ” …” to his upper right camera . You can enable ” Scan QR codes automatically ” option to scan immediately.

Scan a QR code from an image in Windows

If the QR code you want to scan is in an image, you can use the ” Upload photo ” in the Camera app. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Open the Camera app.
  2. Click on Upload photo icon.
  3. Select the image containing the QR code.
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  • The camera it will automatically detect the QR code and display a notification.
  • Click on the notification to view the information contained in the QR code.
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Tips:

  • You can also use image editing software to extract the QR code from the image before scanning it.
  • Make sure the QR code it is clearly visible and clear for better detection.

Scan a QR code using the Codex app on Windows

Microsoft has developed a free application called Codex, dedicated to scanning QR codes and barcodes. This app offers additional features compared to the Camera app, such as:

  • History scan : Codex keeps a history of all the codes you’ve scanned, making them easier to find.
  • Direct link to websites : When you scan a QR code that contains a web link, Codex automatically redirects you to that website.
  • Information sharing : You can easily share the information contained in a QR code with other people.

To use Codex, Follow these steps:

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  • Place the QR code in the field of view of the camera.
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  • The Codex app will automatically detect the QR code and display the information contained in it.
  • You can then perform the corresponding action, such as opening a web link, downloading a file, or connecting to a Wi-Fi network.
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Tips:

  • Code settings to enable or disable certain features.
  • You can also use the Codex to scanning barcodes .

conclusion

Scan a QR code inside Windows it’s now child’s play thanks to the various options available. Whether you use the built-in Camera app, the image import feature, or the dedicated Codex app, you have simple and effective tools to unlock the information contained in those black and white squares. Feel free to experiment with these different methods to find the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

What if you took it a step further by creating your own QR codes ?

Thanks to free online generators, you can easily Create your own QR Code for free and personalize it as you wish. Include a URL, a text message, your contact information or any other type of information and share it in an original and interactive way.

Important reminder : Beware of QR codes from unknown sources, as they may contain malicious links or attempt to steal your personal information. Always verify the source of the QR code before scanning it.