Internal vs External QR Codes
When creating a QR code, you choose between internal and external destinations. Here's when to use each.
Internal QR Codes
Point to pages on your Welcome website.
How They Work
- You select a page (Menu, Contact, etc.)
- Welcome creates a tracking link
- Scans redirect to your page
- Analytics track each scan
Advantages
- Auto-updating: If you change page URLs, codes still work
- Analytics: Full tracking in Welcome
- Consistency: Always points to current content
Best For
- Linking to your menu
- Directing to your contact page
- Promoting events from your site
- Anything on your Welcome website
Example
You create a "Menu" QR code. Later, you change your menu page's URL slug. The QR code still works—no reprinting needed.
External QR Codes
Point to any URL on the internet.
How They Work
- You enter a full URL
- Welcome creates a tracking link
- Scans redirect to that URL
- Analytics track each scan
Advantages
- Flexibility: Link anywhere on the internet
- Track third-party links: See how many people visit your Instagram via QR
Best For
- Social media profiles (Instagram, Facebook, TikTok)
- Review sites (Yelp, Google, TripAdvisor)
- Google Maps directions
- Third-party services
- Anywhere not on your Welcome site
Important Note
If the destination URL changes, you need a new QR code. External codes don't auto-update.
Comparison
| Feature | Internal | External | |---------|----------|----------| | Destination | Your Welcome pages | Any URL | | Auto-update if page moves | Yes | No | | Analytics | Yes | Yes | | Edit destination later | Change in Welcome | Need new code | | URL required | No (select from list) | Yes (enter full URL) |
Which Should I Use?
Use internal when:
- Linking to your website
- You want flexibility to reorganize later
- Destination is within Welcome
Use external when:
- Linking to social media
- Linking to review sites
- Destination is outside Welcome
- Using third-party services
Common Questions
Can I convert an internal code to external (or vice versa)?
No—create a new code with the correct type.
Do both types track analytics?
Yes! Both internal and external codes track scans in your Welcome analytics.
Which is better for table menus?
Internal—link to your menu page. If you restructure your site, codes keep working.
Need help? Contact support.