How to Create Barcode Images in C# with IronBarcode

Hairil Hasyimi Bin Omar

Updated: August 2, 2026

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  # How to Create Barcode Images in C&#35; with IronBarcode IronBarcode enables .NET developers to generate barcode and QR code images in C# with a single line of code, supporting multiple formats and image types. Build inventory management systems, retail applications, or document processing solutions with a robust API that creates professional-quality barcodes for reliable scanning across all major readers. *as-heading:2(Quickstart: Create and Save a Code128 Barcode in One Line)* Use IronBarcode's one-line API to create a `Code128` barcode from a string and save it as a PNG image. Get started immediately - supply the data, choose the encoding and size, and write your image file. ```cs :title=Generate Barcode Image Instantly IronBarCode.BarcodeWriter.CreateBarcode("Sample123", BarcodeEncoding.Code128, 250, 100).SaveAsPng("Barcode.png"); ``` <div class="hsg-featured-snippet"> <h3>Minimal Workflow (5 steps)</h3> <ol> <li><a class="js-modal-open" data-modal-id="trial-license-after-download" href="https://nuget.org/packages/BarCode/">Download the C# IronBarcode Library</a></li> <li>Generate barcodes and save as image files</li> <li>Generate QR codes and save as image files</li> </ol> </div> ## How Do I Generate Barcodes and Save as Image Files? Besides [reading barcodes](https://ironsoftware.com/csharp/barcode/features/read/), IronBarcode allows users to write barcodes with minimal coding. Call the `CreateBarcode()` method from the `BarcodeWriter` class, specifying the barcode **value, type, width, and height** in the method parameters. This outputs a `GeneratedBarcode` object, which can be saved as an image file using the `SaveAs()` method. ### What Types of Data Can I Use for Barcode Values? The `BarcodeWriter.CreateBarcode()` method accepts multiple data types for barcode values: `byte[] array`, `MemoryStream`, and `string`. String lengths and accepted characters vary by barcode type - see our [API documentation](https://ironsoftware.com/csharp/barcode/object-reference/api/) for details. `Code128` supports the full ASCII character set, while `UPC-A` requires exactly 12 numeric digits. For binary data, use `byte[] array` to encode complex data structures. ### Which Barcode Encoding Types Are Supported? IronBarcode supports numerous barcode formats - see our [Supported Barcode Formats](https://ironsoftware.com/csharp/barcode/get-started/supported-barcode-formats/) article for the complete list. Popular formats include: - **Linear/1D Barcodes:** `Code128`, `Code39`, `UPC-A`, `UPC-E`, `EAN-8`, `EAN-13` - **2D Barcodes:** `QR Code`, `Data Matrix`, `PDF417`, `Aztec` - **Specialized Formats:** `MaxiCode` for shipping, `Databar` for retail Each format serves specific uses. `Code128` handles general alphanumeric data well, while [QR codes offer superior error correction](https://ironsoftware.com/csharp/barcode/how-to/error-correction/) for mobile scanning. ### How Do Width and Height Settings Affect My Barcode? Set the output barcode image dimensions in pixels. Default measurements are _250 px_ for both. Some barcode types (`QR`, `PDF417`) require specific dimensions for compliance. When input dimensions don't match requirements, the barcode generates at compliant dimensions with whitespace filling remaining space. Too-small dimensions throw an exception. For optimal scanning: - **Linear barcodes:** Maintain width significantly greater than height - **2D barcodes:** Use square dimensions for QR codes (e.g., 250x250) - **Print quality:** Higher pixel dimensions improve print quality at larger physical sizes ### What Image Formats Can I Export Barcodes To? The `GeneratedBarcode` object from `BarcodeWriter.CreateBarcode()` saves to various image formats using specific `SaveAs()` methods: - `SaveAsGif()`: Saves as **GIF image file** - `SaveAsJpeg()`: Saves as **JPEG image file** - `SaveAsPng()`: Saves as **PNG image file** (recommended for web) - `SaveAsTiff()`: Saves as **TIFF image file** (ideal for archival/printing) - `SaveAsWindowsBitmap()`: Saves as **BMP image file** - `SaveAsImage()`: General method - specify format extension in file path Additionally, [export barcodes as streams](https://ironsoftware.com/csharp/barcode/how-to/export-barcode-as-stream/) for in-memory processing or [create barcodes as PDF documents](https://ironsoftware.com/csharp/barcode/how-to/create-barcode-as-pdf/) for document integration. ## How Do I Generate a Barcode and Save It As an Image File? Use `BarcodeWriter.CreateBarcode()` to create a _`Code128`_ barcode and save it as a JPEG image: ```csharp :path=/static-assets/barcode/content-code-examples/how-to/create-barcode-images-2.cs ``` <div class="content-img-align-center"> <div class="center-image-wrapper"> <img src="/static-assets/barcode/how-to/create-barcode-images/OneDBarcode.jpeg" alt="Generated one-dimensional barcode with black vertical bars showing example output from barcode creation code" class="img-responsive add-shadow" /> </div> </div> For advanced styling options, see our guide on [customizing barcode styles](https://ironsoftware.com/csharp/barcode/how-to/customize-barcode-style/). ## How Do I Generate QR Codes and Save as Image Files? **QR codes**, classified as two-dimensional barcodes, are fully supported by IronBarcode. Their versatility, cosmetic appeal, and customizable features have driven widespread adoption from restaurant menus to payment systems. Creating QR codes requires different methods due to their complexity. Call the `CreateQrCode()` method from the `QRCodeWriter` class, which accepts **4 arguments:** the **barcode value**, **output QR code size**, `QRCodeWriter.QrErrorCorrectionLevel` enum field, and `QRVersion`. ### What Data Types Can I Use for QR Code Values? `QRCodeWriter.CreateQrCode()` accepts numerical, alphabetical, or alphanumeric values as `byte[] array`, `MemoryStream`, or `System.String` types. QR codes excel at storing: - **URLs:** Direct users to websites or landing pages - **Text:** Store up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters - **Binary data:** Encode files or complex data structures - **Structured data:** vCards, WiFi credentials, or payment information For Unicode support and international characters, see our [writing Unicode barcodes](https://ironsoftware.com/csharp/barcode/how-to/writing-in-unicode/) tutorial. ### How Do I Set the QR Code Size? Specify QR code size directly as `Int32` type in **pixels (px)**. Default size is 500 px. Consider these factors: - **Display medium:** Screen displays typically need 200-400px - **Print applications:** Use 600px or higher for quality printing - **Scanning distance:** Larger codes scan better from greater distances ### What Is QR Error Correction Level and Why Does It Matter? `QRErrorCorrectionLevel` determines fault tolerance, with four levels: **Highest**, **High**, **Medium**, and **Low**. Higher correction levels create more complex QR codes that resist reading errors even when damaged or partially obscured. #### `QRErrorCorrectionLevel.Highest` Generates the most complex QR code with 30% error correction. Supports logo stamping or image graphics. Ideal for [customizing QR codes with logos](https://ironsoftware.com/csharp/barcode/how-to/customize-qr-code-style/). <div class="content-img-align-center"> <div class="center-image-wrapper"> <img src="/static-assets/barcode/how-to/create-barcode-images/QRHighest.jpeg" alt="QR code generated with highest error correction level showing dense black and white pattern with positioning squares" class="img-responsive add-shadow" /> </div> </div> #### `QRErrorCorrectionLevel.High` Applies 25% error correction. Less complex than Highest level. Balances durability with data capacity. <div class="content-img-align-center"> <div class="center-image-wrapper"> <img src="/static-assets/barcode/how-to/create-barcode-images/QRHigh.jpeg" alt="QR code example showing high error correction level with dense data pattern and standard positioning elements" class="img-responsive add-shadow" /> </div> </div> #### `QRErrorCorrectionLevel.Medium` Applies 15% error correction. Produces QR codes faster but with more error susceptibility. Suitable for most business applications with clear printing. <div class="content-img-align-center"> <div class="center-image-wrapper"> <img src="/static-assets/barcode/how-to/create-barcode-images/QRMedium.jpeg" alt="Generated QR code example showing black and white data matrix with corner position markers" class="img-responsive add-shadow" /> </div> </div> #### `QRErrorCorrectionLevel.Low` Applies 7% error correction, creating the least complex QR code. Use when maximum data capacity is required with optimal scanning conditions. <div class="content-img-align-center"> <div class="center-image-wrapper"> <img src="/static-assets/barcode/how-to/create-barcode-images/QRLow.jpeg" alt="Sample QR code generated with low error correction level showing standard black and white module pattern" class="img-responsive add-shadow" /> </div> </div> ### When Should I Use Different QR Versions? QR Version (1-40) determines symbol complexity and data capacity. Higher versions produce more complex codes storing more data. Setting version too low causes issues encoding larger data amounts. Version 0 automatically assigns the appropriate version based on encoded value. See <a href="https://www.qrcode.com/en/about/version.html">QR Version</a> for more information. ### How Do I Create a QR Code Image with Specific Settings? Use `QRCodeWriter.CreateQrCode()` to write a QR code and save it as an image: ```csharp :path=/static-assets/barcode/content-code-examples/how-to/create-barcode-images-3.cs ``` <div class="content-img-align-center"> <div class="center-image-wrapper"> <img src="/static-assets/barcode/how-to/create-barcode-images/QRMedium.jpeg" alt="QR code example showing medium error correction level with standard finder patterns and data encoding structure" class="img-responsive add-shadow" /> </div> </div> The code encodes an alphanumeric value at 250 pixels with medium error correction. Version 0 lets the program select the appropriate QR code version. `SaveAsJpeg()` accepts the filename with JPEG extension. ## Best Practices for Barcode Image Generation For production applications: 1. **Choose the right format:** PNG for web, TIFF for archival, JPEG for general use 2. **Test scanning:** Verify barcodes with multiple scanning devices 3. **Apply proper margins:** Use [barcode margin settings](https://ironsoftware.com/csharp/barcode/how-to/setting-margins-barcode/) for reliable scanning 4. **Consider performance:** Explore [async and multithreading options](https://ironsoftware.com/csharp/barcode/how-to/async-multithread/) for high-volume generation For additional examples and techniques, visit our [C# Barcode Image Generator tutorial](https://ironsoftware.com/csharp/barcode/tutorials/csharp-barcode-image-generator/).

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IronBarcode enables .NET developers to generate barcode and QR code images in C# with a single line of code, supporting multiple formats and image types. Build inventory management systems, retail applications, or document processing solutions with a robust API that creates professional-quality barcodes for reliable scanning across all major readers.

Use IronBarcode's one-line API to create a Code128 barcode from a string and save it as a PNG image. Get started immediately - supply the data, choose the encoding and size, and write your image file.

How Do I Generate Barcodes and Save as Image Files?

Besides reading barcodes, IronBarcode allows users to write barcodes with minimal coding. Call the CreateBarcode() method from the BarcodeWriter class, specifying the barcode value, type, width, and height in the method parameters. This outputs a GeneratedBarcode object, which can be saved as an image file using the SaveAs() method.

What Types of Data Can I Use for Barcode Values?

The BarcodeWriter.CreateBarcode() method accepts multiple data types for barcode values: byte[] array, MemoryStream, and string. String lengths and accepted characters vary by barcode type - see our API documentation for details. Code128 supports the full ASCII character set, while UPC-A requires exactly 12 numeric digits. For binary data, use byte[] array to encode complex data structures.

Which Barcode Encoding Types Are Supported?

IronBarcode supports numerous barcode formats - see our Supported Barcode Formats article for the complete list. Popular formats include:

• Linear/1D Barcodes: Code128, Code39, UPC-A, UPC-E, EAN-8, EAN-13
• 2D Barcodes: QR Code, Data Matrix, PDF417, Aztec
• Specialized Formats: MaxiCode for shipping, Databar for retail

Each format serves specific uses. Code128 handles general alphanumeric data well, while QR codes offer superior error correction for mobile scanning.

How Do Width and Height Settings Affect My Barcode?

Set the output barcode image dimensions in pixels. Default measurements are 250 px for both. Some barcode types (QR, PDF417) require specific dimensions for compliance. When input dimensions don't match requirements, the barcode generates at compliant dimensions with whitespace filling remaining space. Too-small dimensions throw an exception.

For optimal scanning:

• Linear barcodes: Maintain width significantly greater than height
• 2D barcodes: Use square dimensions for QR codes (e.g., 250x250)
• Print quality: Higher pixel dimensions improve print quality at larger physical sizes

What Image Formats Can I Export Barcodes To?

The GeneratedBarcode object from BarcodeWriter.CreateBarcode() saves to various image formats using specific SaveAs() methods:

• SaveAsGif(): Saves as GIF image file
• SaveAsJpeg(): Saves as JPEG image file
• SaveAsPng(): Saves as PNG image file (recommended for web)
• SaveAsTiff(): Saves as TIFF image file (ideal for archival/printing)
• SaveAsWindowsBitmap(): Saves as BMP image file
• SaveAsImage(): General method - specify format extension in file path

Additionally, export barcodes as streams for in-memory processing or create barcodes as PDF documents for document integration.

How Do I Generate a Barcode and Save It As an Image File?

Use BarcodeWriter.CreateBarcode() to create a Code128 barcode and save it as a JPEG image:

using IronBarCode;

// Create a basic barcode
BarcodeWriter.CreateBarcode("IronBarcode123", BarcodeEncoding.Code128, 200, 100).SaveAsJpeg("OneDBarcode.jpeg");

// Create a barcode with custom options
var myBarcode = BarcodeWriter.CreateBarcode("PRODUCT-12345", BarcodeEncoding.Code128, 300, 150);

// Apply styling
myBarcode.AddBarcodeValueTextBelowBarcode();
myBarcode.SetMargins(10);

// Save in multiple formats
myBarcode.SaveAsJpeg("product-barcode.jpg");
myBarcode.SaveAsPng("product-barcode.png");

using IronBarCode;

// Create a basic barcode
BarcodeWriter.CreateBarcode("IronBarcode123", BarcodeEncoding.Code128, 200, 100).SaveAsJpeg("OneDBarcode.jpeg");

// Create a barcode with custom options
var myBarcode = BarcodeWriter.CreateBarcode("PRODUCT-12345", BarcodeEncoding.Code128, 300, 150);

// Apply styling
myBarcode.AddBarcodeValueTextBelowBarcode();
myBarcode.SetMargins(10);

// Save in multiple formats
myBarcode.SaveAsJpeg("product-barcode.jpg");
myBarcode.SaveAsPng("product-barcode.png");

Imports IronBarCode

' Create a basic barcode
BarcodeWriter.CreateBarcode("IronBarcode123", BarcodeEncoding.Code128, 200, 100).SaveAsJpeg("OneDBarcode.jpeg")

' Create a barcode with custom options
Dim myBarcode = BarcodeWriter.CreateBarcode("PRODUCT-12345", BarcodeEncoding.Code128, 300, 150)

' Apply styling
myBarcode.AddBarcodeValueTextBelowBarcode()
myBarcode.SetMargins(10)

' Save in multiple formats
myBarcode.SaveAsJpeg("product-barcode.jpg")
myBarcode.SaveAsPng("product-barcode.png")

Imports IronBarCode

' Create a basic barcode
BarcodeWriter.CreateBarcode("IronBarcode123", BarcodeEncoding.Code128, 200, 100).SaveAsJpeg("OneDBarcode.jpeg")

' Create a barcode with custom options
Dim myBarcode = BarcodeWriter.CreateBarcode("PRODUCT-12345", BarcodeEncoding.Code128, 300, 150)

' Apply styling
myBarcode.AddBarcodeValueTextBelowBarcode()
myBarcode.SetMargins(10)

' Save in multiple formats
myBarcode.SaveAsJpeg("product-barcode.jpg")
myBarcode.SaveAsPng("product-barcode.png")

For advanced styling options, see our guide on customizing barcode styles.

How Do I Generate QR Codes and Save as Image Files?

QR codes, classified as two-dimensional barcodes, are fully supported by IronBarcode. Their versatility, cosmetic appeal, and customizable features have driven widespread adoption from restaurant menus to payment systems.

Creating QR codes requires different methods due to their complexity. Call the CreateQrCode() method from the QRCodeWriter class, which accepts 4 arguments: the barcode value, output QR code size, QRCodeWriter.QrErrorCorrectionLevel enum field, and QRVersion.

What Data Types Can I Use for QR Code Values?

QRCodeWriter.CreateQrCode() accepts numerical, alphabetical, or alphanumeric values as byte[] array, MemoryStream, or System.String types. QR codes excel at storing:

• URLs: Direct users to websites or landing pages
• Text: Store up to 4,296 alphanumeric characters
• Binary data: Encode files or complex data structures
• Structured data: vCards, WiFi credentials, or payment information

For Unicode support and international characters, see our writing Unicode barcodes tutorial.

How Do I Set the QR Code Size?

Specify QR code size directly as Int32 type in pixels (px). Default size is 500 px. Consider these factors:

• Display medium: Screen displays typically need 200-400px
• Print applications: Use 600px or higher for quality printing
• Scanning distance: Larger codes scan better from greater distances

What Is QR Error Correction Level and Why Does It Matter?

QRErrorCorrectionLevel determines fault tolerance, with four levels: Highest, High, Medium, and Low. Higher correction levels create more complex QR codes that resist reading errors even when damaged or partially obscured.

QRErrorCorrectionLevel.Highest

Generates the most complex QR code with 30% error correction. Supports logo stamping or image graphics. Ideal for customizing QR codes with logos.

QRErrorCorrectionLevel.High

Applies 25% error correction. Less complex than Highest level. Balances durability with data capacity.

QRErrorCorrectionLevel.Medium

Applies 15% error correction. Produces QR codes faster but with more error susceptibility. Suitable for most business applications with clear printing.

QRErrorCorrectionLevel.Low

Applies 7% error correction, creating the least complex QR code. Use when maximum data capacity is required with optimal scanning conditions.

When Should I Use Different QR Versions?

QR Version (1-40) determines symbol complexity and data capacity. Higher versions produce more complex codes storing more data. Setting version too low causes issues encoding larger data amounts. Version 0 automatically assigns the appropriate version based on encoded value. See QR Version for more information.

How Do I Create a QR Code Image with Specific Settings?

Use QRCodeWriter.CreateQrCode() to write a QR code and save it as an image:

using IronBarCode;

// Basic QR code creation
QRCodeWriter.CreateQrCode("IronBarcode1234", 250, QRCodeWriter.QrErrorCorrectionLevel.Medium, qrVersion: 0).SaveAsJpeg("QRMedium.jpeg");

// Advanced QR code with logo and custom styling
var qrCode = QRCodeWriter.CreateQrCodeWithLogo("https://ironsoftware.com", new QRCodeLogo("logo.png"), 500);

// Apply styling
qrCode.ChangeBarCodeColor(System.Drawing.Color.DarkBlue);

// Save in multiple formats
qrCode.SaveAsPng("styled-qr.png");
qrCode.SaveAsPdf("styled-qr.pdf");

using IronBarCode;

// Basic QR code creation
QRCodeWriter.CreateQrCode("IronBarcode1234", 250, QRCodeWriter.QrErrorCorrectionLevel.Medium, qrVersion: 0).SaveAsJpeg("QRMedium.jpeg");

// Advanced QR code with logo and custom styling
var qrCode = QRCodeWriter.CreateQrCodeWithLogo("https://ironsoftware.com", new QRCodeLogo("logo.png"), 500);

// Apply styling
qrCode.ChangeBarCodeColor(System.Drawing.Color.DarkBlue);

// Save in multiple formats
qrCode.SaveAsPng("styled-qr.png");
qrCode.SaveAsPdf("styled-qr.pdf");

The code encodes an alphanumeric value at 250 pixels with medium error correction. Version 0 lets the program select the appropriate QR code version. SaveAsJpeg() accepts the filename with JPEG extension.

Best Practices for Barcode Image Generation

For production applications:

1. Choose the right format: PNG for web, TIFF for archival, JPEG for general use
2. Test scanning: Verify barcodes with multiple scanning devices
3. Apply proper margins: Use barcode margin settings for reliable scanning
4. Consider performance: Explore async and multithreading options for high-volume generation

For additional examples and techniques, visit our C# Barcode Image Generator tutorial.

Hairil Hasyimi Bin Omar

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Software Engineer