If WhatsApp Web will not scan its QR code, refresh the code, clean the phone camera, update WhatsApp and check both devices’ connections. WhatsApp also supports linking through a phone number and one-time code on supported versions, which can bypass a camera problem.
Refresh the QR code
Open the official web.whatsapp.com page and reload it if the code has expired. Avoid unofficial WhatsApp login pages. Increase browser zoom only enough to make the code clear and keep the full square visible.
Clean and focus the camera
Wipe the phone’s camera lens and hold it steady far enough away to show the whole code. Reduce glare on the monitor. Scan from WhatsApp under Linked devices rather than with a generic camera app.
Check both connections
Test the computer’s internet connection and confirm that the phone can reach the service. A restrictive office, school or public network may block part of the connection. Try a trusted alternative network rather than disabling security tools without approval.
Update the app and browser
Install the current WhatsApp version from the official app store and update the browser. Restart both devices after the update. Clear site data for WhatsApp Web if the page remains stuck, knowing that this signs the browser out.
Link with a phone number
On supported WhatsApp Web versions, choose the option to link with a phone number. Enter the primary profile number, then confirm the displayed one-time code on the phone. Check the device name and location prompt before approving it.
Review linked devices
WhatsApp can link several companion devices to one primary profile. Remove sessions you do not recognise and log out of shared computers. Discussions of WhatsApp, Facebook and Twitter should not distract from the profile-security check: an unknown linked device needs removal.
Business-device restrictions
Managed browsers may block storage, camera-related workflows or web messaging. Ask the administrator whether employees may use WhatsApp Web and whether retention rules apply. Do not try to bypass company controls. The same caution applies when a QR code appears in an advertisement; only link through the official application.
When the issue remains
Test another current browser and another computer to separate profile, camera and device faults. Check WhatsApp’s application status and support information. Similar app failures can have different causes; this guide to Why won’t Snapchat open? should not be used as a WhatsApp repair procedure.
