How to Fax from a Computer

Faxing may seem like a relic of the past, but it remains a critical tool for securely transmitting documents, especially in industries like healthcare, legal, and finance. The good news is that in 2024, you don’t need a traditional fax machine to send a fax—you can easily do it from your computer. Here’s how.

1. Use an Online Fax Service

Online fax services are the most convenient way to fax from a computer. These platforms let you send and receive faxes digitally, often with added features like encryption and cloud integration.

Popular Online Fax Services

• eFax
• MyFax
• Fax.Plus
• CocoFax

Steps to Fax Using an Online Service

1. Sign Up: Register for a fax service. Many offer free trials.
2. Upload Your Document: Log into your account and upload the file you want to fax. Supported formats often include PDF, Word documents, and images.
3. Enter the Recipient’s Fax Number: Type in the fax number, including the country code if it’s international.
4. Send the Fax: Hit “Send.” The service will provide a confirmation once the fax is delivered.

Benefits

• No hardware required.
• Works with multiple file formats.
• Secure and easy to track.

2. Fax Through Email

Some online fax services allow you to send faxes directly through email. This method is simple and doesn’t require additional software.

Steps to Fax via Email

1. 1. Compose a New Email: Open your email client (e.g., Gmail, Outlook).

• Enter the Recipient’s Fax Number: In the recipient field, type the fax number followed by the service’s domain (e.g., [email protected]).

1. Attach Your Document: Upload the file you want to fax.
2. Send the Email: The fax service will convert the email into a fax and send it to the recipient.

Tip: Check the fax service’s specific email format for sending faxes.

3. Fax Using Fax Software

If you have a Windows or macOS computer with a connected fax modem, you can use built-in fax software to send documents.

Windows Fax and Scan

1. Open the Windows Fax and Scan application.
2. Click on New Fax.
3. Enter the recipient’s fax number.
4. Attach your document and press Send.

Mac Fax Option

If your Mac is connected to a fax-capable printer:

1. Open the document you want to fax.
2. Select File > Print.
3. Choose the fax-capable printer and enter the recipient’s fax number.

4. Fax Through a Printer

Some modern multifunction printers (MFPs) come with fax capabilities. If your printer is connected to your computer, you can send faxes through it.

Steps to Fax Using a Printer

1. Load the Document: Place the document in the printer’s scanner tray.
2. Use Fax Software: Open the printer’s software on your computer.
3. Enter Fax Number: Input the recipient’s number in the software.
4. Send: Start the fax process.

5. Fax with a Smartphone as a Backup

If you’re on the go, you can use your smartphone to send a fax and synchronize it with your computer.

Steps

1. Download a fax app like Fax.Plus, CocoFax, or iFax.
2. Upload the document from your computer to a cloud service (e.g., Google Drive or Dropbox).
3. Access the file through the app and fax it.

Final Tips

• Check Compatibility: Ensure your files are in a supported format (e.g., PDF).
• Keep Records: Most services and software offer delivery receipts. Save these for your records.
• Security Matters: Use services with encryption if faxing sensitive documents.

Faxing from your computer in 2024 is easier and more efficient than ever. With the right tools, you can send faxes quickly without the need for bulky machines. Whether you prefer online fax services, email, or software, the flexibility of modern faxing ensures you stay connected when it matters most.