The subject of this paper is the usage of the bar code in the 21st century. In the introduction I’m describing the need for encoding products as a result of scientific and technological development, market monitoring, international cooperation, increased production. The Bar code or EAN (European Numbering Numbering) is the solution to this problem. It was invented by N.Joseph Woodland and was patented in 1952 with the help of his partner Bemard Silver. Today, EAN has been recognized as an international coding and identification system for products, services and locations. The EAN Intemational Association embraces approximately one million companies from 103 countries participating in the association with their national organizations. Throughout this work I will introduce you to barcode types, most of which are divided into EAN barcode and 2D code. I will also show the difference between bar code generation and reading tools and bar code printers and readers. After that I will say a few words about the future of the bar code and close this paper with the conclusion.