How to Generate QR Codes in Word and PowerPoint Using Add-ins
Question details
The user needs a reliable method to create QR codes from website addresses directly within Word or PowerPoint, especially when standard add-ins like qr4Office are unavailable.
- Product
- Microsoft Word, Microsoft PowerPoint
- Device & OS
- not provided
- Scenario
- Creating custom QR codes linked to external website URLs to embed in text documents or presentation slides.
- Observed behavior
- Users require built-in field codes or alternative add-ins to generate QR codes without relying on links to OneDrive files.
Verify that your organization's IT policies allow the installation of third-party add-ins, and ensure you have a stable internet connection before downloading new tools.
Using the DisplayBarcode Field in Word
A native method to create QR codes in Word without needing to download or install any third-party add-ins.
Microsoft Word includes a built-in field code function that allows you to render barcodes and QR codes directly. This is the safest and most efficient alternative if your organization blocks third-party add-ins like qr4Office.
Click where you want the QR code to appear. Press 'Ctrl + F9' on your keyboard to insert a set of empty field brackets { }.
Inside the brackets, type the following exactly: DisplayBarcode "https://www.yourwebsite.com" QR \q 3. Replace the URL inside the quotation marks with your desired website address.
Right-click anywhere on the field code text and select 'Toggle Field Codes', or press 'Alt + F9' to switch the view and display the generated QR code.
Installing Alternative QR Code Add-ins
Use the Office Add-in store to find, install, and enable alternative QR code generators.
Generate QR Codes Instantly in WPS Office
Skip the complex field codes and unverified third-party add-ins. WPS Office includes a native, easy-to-use QR code generator built right into the interface, allowing you to create custom QR codes in seconds.
- 1. Open your document: Launch WPS Writer or WPS Presentation and open your file.
- 2. Navigate to the Insert tab: Click on the 'Insert' tab located in the top ribbon menu.
- 3. Select the QR Code tool: Click the 'QR Code' icon in the toolbar. If it is not immediately visible, look under the 'Picture' or 'Shapes' dropdown.
- 4. Enter URL and generate: Type or paste your website URL into the input field, set your preferred margins, and click 'OK' to insert the QR code directly into your document.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the qr4Office add-in missing from my store?
Specific add-ins like qr4Office may be hidden or restricted by your organization's IT administrator due to security policies. They can also be unavailable in certain regional versions of the Office Store.
Can I automatically generate QR codes for a mail merge?
Yes. In Microsoft Word, you can use the 'MergeBarcode' field code instead of 'DisplayBarcode'. This allows you to pull different URLs from your data source to generate unique QR codes for each merged document.
Are the QR codes generated by the DisplayBarcode field static or dynamic?
The QR codes generated using built-in field codes are static. They directly encode the exact URL or text you provided. If you need a QR code that allows you to change the destination link later, you will need to use a dedicated dynamic URL service.
