qls — QR Link Server

Generate a QR code that opens your local dev server from another device on your LAN.

Install

Global (preferred for quick usage):

npm i -g qls then qls 3000

No install (one‑off use):

npx qls 3000

Local dev (from this repo):

npm link then qls 3000

Usage

qls <port>

Example: qls 3000

qls waits until the given port is reachable on localhost, rewrites the host to your LAN IP, prints a QR in the terminal, and echoes the URL.

Why

Open your local dev server on a phone/tablet without typing IPs. Great for testing responsive layouts, PWAs, and camera features.

Notes

Requires Node.js (LTS recommended). Works on macOS, Linux, and Windows.

The QR encodes http://<your-lan-ip>:<port> - ensure your device is on the same Wi‑Fi/LAN and your firewall allows access.

Troubleshooting

Can’t find LAN IP: some environments (e.g., containers) may restrict network interfaces. Run on your host OS or expose interfaces.

Port never becomes ready: ensure your dev server is running on the given port and listening on localhost.

Alternatives / Name ideas

Other nice names we considered (wanted something short and memorable): qres, lan-qr, dev-qr, qr-dev-link, qrserve, qr-open, port2qr