The short version
Use the Microsoft Photos app or install a free reader from Microsoft Store.
Step-by-step
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Step 1
Method 1 — Microsoft Photos app
Open the QR image in Microsoft Photos, click the three-dot menu, and look for "Read QR code" (available in newer builds). The decoded link appears in the dialog.
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Step 2
Method 2 — Microsoft Store QR reader
Open Microsoft Store, search "QR Code", and install a free reader (e.g., "QR Code for Windows 10"). Point your webcam at the QR or drag an image in.
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Step 3
Method 3 — Browser-based scanner
Visit a web QR scanner (such as webqr.com) in Chrome or Edge, allow camera access, and point your webcam at the QR. No install needed.
If it doesn't work
- Built-in Windows Camera app doesn't read QR codes — don't waste time looking for it there.
- Avoid free Microsoft Store apps loaded with ads or asking for non-camera permissions; one-star reviews flag these quickly.
- If your webcam is low resolution, try increasing screen brightness or printing the QR larger.
Frequently asked questions
Can Windows 10 scan QR codes natively?
Not without an extra app. The default Camera app captures images but doesn't decode QR codes. Install a free reader from the Microsoft Store, or use a web-based scanner in Chrome or Edge.
How do I scan a QR code from an image on Windows?
Open the image in Microsoft Photos and check the menu for "Read QR code" (available in newer Windows 11 builds). For older versions, drag the image into a web decoder like zxing.org or webqr.com.
Is there a built-in QR scanner in Microsoft Edge?
Edge has had QR sharing features (creating QRs from URLs) but no built-in scanning. For scanning, use a web scanner site or a Microsoft Store reader.