Globally there are a wide variety of barcode standards to choose from.

1. The most commonly used 1D (1-dimensional with linear bars) barcodes:

The 1D linear barcodes are the most efficient way to track inventory as it represents a simple sequence of symbols which will refer to a certain item. It doesn't have to carry a lot of information, because the database has all the information about the item available.

2. The most commonly used 2D (2-dimensional) barcodes:

2D barcodes are most commonly used when there is a need to present more information with the code e.g. direct the user to a URL or share a contact card.

1. Scanning:
Once the scanner is compatible with the barcode and configured as described in the Hardware for scanning article there is no difference which barcode is scanned as scanning a barcode will always translate the image to symbols that can be matched to items in Katana.

2. Printing barcodes on physical labels:
Barcodes generated or entered in Katana can be printed in any standard supported by the label printing software used for label creation and printing.