> ## 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.

# How to fix a ShortPen QR Code that doesn’t redirect

> Fix QR Codes in ShortPen that don’t redirect. Check slugs, domains, and print quality to restore scans quickly.

**Short answer:** Most QR failures happen because the **link changed** (you edited the slug), the **domain isn’t active/SSL-valid**, or the **printed image is hard to scan**. Check the URL of the link, verify the domain status, then **re-download the QR from the link’s QR tab**. If you changed the **slug or domain**, you **must reprint**.

<Note>
  **Important:** Changing only the **destination URL** keeps the same link, so your existing dynamic QR **keeps working**. Only **slug/domain** changes require a new print.

  See: [What happens to a QR code after changing a link?](/link-management/qr-code/qr-after-link-change)
</Note>

## Fast checks (most common causes)

1. **Scan the source image**

   Open the exact QR image you downloaded from ShortPen and scan it with 2–3 phones. If the **on-screen file** works but the **printed** one doesn’t, jump to **Print & design checks** below.
2. **Confirm the link resolves right now**

   In ShortPen, open the link, click **Open URL** (or copy the full **domain + slug**), and test in a private window. If the link itself fails, [edit and fix the link first](/link-management/links/link-editing).
3. **Did you change the slug (or domain)?**

   Changing the slug/domain creates a **new link**. Changing the slug/domain creates a **new link** and **the previous link stops working.** **Re-download** the updated QR and **reprint**.
4. **Check the domain status & SSL**

   Make sure the [domain](/domains/domain-verification) shown on the QR is **Active/verified**. If DNS is **Pending** or Cloudflare **Proxy/SSL** is misconfigured (set Cloudflare to **DNS-only** and SSL/TLS to **Full**), scans can fail.
5. **Review redirect & access rules**

   [Password](/link-management/links-settings/link-password-protection), or other rules may block your test device.

## Print & design checks (if on-screen works but printed fails)

1. **Quiet zone & size**

   Keep a clear white margin, don’t crop. Print large enough for the scan distance. See **Best Practices**.
2. **Contrast & colors**

   Dark modules on a light background scan best. Avoid low-contrast brand palettes.
3. **File quality**

   Prefer **SVG** from ShortPen. Re-export if the file was compressed by other tools.

   <Info>
     **Learn more**: [How to download and use QR Codes from ShortPen](/link-management/qr-code/qr-downloading)
   </Info>

## How to safely regenerate or re-download your QR

If the checks above look good but scans still fail, refresh the QR from the link:

1. Go to **Links → open your link → QR tab**.
2. Review **Domain** and **Slug**. They must match what you plan to distribute.
3. (Optional) Adjust **colors/logo**, then **Save**.
4. Click [Download](/link-management/qr-code/qr-downloading) → choose **SVG** (best for print) or **PNG/PDF**.
5. **Test-scan** the new file on multiple devices. Replace the asset wherever it’s used (print, packaging, signage).

## FAQ

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Does editing the destination reset analytics">
    No. Analytics continue on the same link. For a central campaign pivot, [duplicate](/link-management/links/link-duplication) the link.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Related links

* [What is a QR Code in ShortPen?](/key-concepts/qr-codes-overview)
* [What happens to a QR code after changing a link?](/link-management/qr-code/qr-after-link-change)
* [How to download and use QR Codes from ShortPen](/link-management/qr-code/qr-downloading)
* [How to create and customize QR Codes in ShortPen](/link-management/qr-code/qr-creation)
* [Best practices for QR Codes in offline campaigns](/link-management/qr-code/qr-best-practices)