> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://shortpen.com/docs/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

> Learn when to reprint your QR after editing a ShortPen link and how changes to slugs or domains affect scans and analytics.

# What happens to a QR Code after changing a link?

**Short answer:** Your QR code keeps working after most edits (destination URL, UTMs, title, tags, folder, even color/logo). You only need a new QR if you change the **slug** or **domain**, because the QR encodes the link.

## What stays the same after editing a link

When you edit any of the following, your previously printed or shared QR **continues to scan to the same link** (no need to reprint):

* **Destination URL**. Changing it does **not** reset analytics. The link object and its QR remain valid.
* [UTM parameters](/link-management/links-settings/utm-overview)**, title, folders, tags, event tracking toggle, and other link settings.** These adjust behavior/metadata, but don’t alter the encoded link in the QR code you have already downloaded.
* **QR appearance** (color/logo). Only the visual asset changes. The encoded link stays the same, so old prints still scan, though they won’t match your new branding.
* **Turning the QR toggle off in the editor**. Previously printed images can still be scanned because they embed the branded link. To invalidate an old print, change the slug/domain or delete the link.

<Tip>
  If you want separate reporting after a major content change, [duplicate](/link-management/links/link-duplication) the link instead of just changing the destination.
</Tip>

## When you must re-download (and reprint) the QR

* **You changed the slug or switched** [**domains**](/key-concepts/domains-overview)

  This creates a **new public branded link**. Any QR printed with the old link will no longer reach the link. Download a fresh QR and replace it anywhere it’s used.
* **Troubleshooting reminder**

  If scans stop redirecting after a slug change, verify the link’s current URL (domain + slug), then re-download and reprint the updated QR.

  <Info>
    **Learn more**: [How to fix a ShortPen QR Code that doesn’t redirect](/link-management/troubleshooting/qr-no-redirect)
  </Info>

## Why this happens

Every ShortPen link = **domain + slug → branded link** (that redirects to your destination).

The [QR Code](/key-concepts/qr-codes-overview) **encodes that URL**, not the long destination. So, changing the destination is safe, but hanging the **domain/slug** is not.

<Info>
  **Learn more**: [What is a link in ShortPen?](/key-concepts/links-overview)
</Info>

## Related links

* [What is a QR Code in ShortPen?](/key-concepts/qr-codes-overview)
* [How to create and customize QR Codes in ShortPen](/link-management/qr-code/qr-creation)
* [How to download and use QR Codes from ShortPen](/link-management/qr-code/qr-downloading)
* [How to fix a ShortPen QR Code that doesn’t redirect](/link-management/troubleshooting/qr-no-redirect)
* [Best practices for QR Codes in offline campaigns](/link-management/qr-code/qr-best-practices)
* [How to edit an existing link in ShortPen](/link-management/links/link-editing)
* [Overview of ShortPen Analytics](/key-concepts/analytics-overview)