Digital Fax, Internet Fax, Online Fax, Virtual Fax, Electronic Fax. What is it and how to fax over the internet?

A online fax—also known as an digital fax, virtual fax, internet fax, or electronic fax—is a modern way to send and receive documents using the internet instead of relying on fax machines. By leveraging cloud technology, online fax services, like Fax.Plus, make communication faster and easier.

Definition of Online Fax

Digital faxing, sometimes referred to as internet fax or electronic fax, is the process of sending documents electronically without needing a traditional fax machine. Unlike analog faxing that uses paper and dedicated phone lines, virtual faxing relies on digital files and secure online servers. Whether you use a computer, tablet, or smartphone, you can send and receive faxes through these online fax services.

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How Online Faxes work and How to Fax from the Internet

Online faxing works by converting your document into a digital file and transmitting it securely over the internet. Here’s how to fax from the internet with Fax.Plus:

Mobile Apps

1
Download and install the Fax.Plus app on your smartphone.
2
Log in to your account or sign up for a free account.
3
Navigate to the Send Fax section and type in the recipient's fax number.
4
Attach the documents you wish to fax and, if you'd like, include a cover page.
5
Click on Send to fax instantly and receive the delivery status via push notification.
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Sending and Receiving via Email


With internet fax services, you can attach a document to an email, and the system converts it into a faxable format, bridging the gap between digital and traditional fax communication. This method is often called electronic faxing because it replaces the need for physical paper.

1
Ensure you're using the email address registered with Fax.Plus.
2
Compose an email and enter the recipient’s fax number in the To field*.
3
Attach the documents you want to fax.
4
Click on Send to fax immediately and get an email confirmation of successful delivery.
* Write the destination’s fax number (along with the country and area code) followed by @fax.plus (example: +16692001010@fax.plus).

Integration with Existing Tools

Many online fax platforms integrate seamlessly with cloud storage systems, customer relationship management (CRM) software, and other essential business tools, ensuring your digital workflow remains uninterrupted.

1
Navigate to Google Drive and locate the document you wish to fax.
2
Right-click on the file, then hover over Open With and choose Fax.Plus from the options. (If Fax.Plus isn't visible, ensure you've installed the extension correctly.)
3
Log in to your Fax.Plus account or create a new one for free. Grant the Fax.Plus extension the necessary permissions.
4
Provide the recipient's fax number, then proceed to send your document hassle-free.

History of Fax Technology

The evolution of fax technology is a story of continuous innovation:

  • The Origins of Fax Machines: Fax machines were once the cornerstone of business communication, sending paper copies over telephone lines.

  • The Shift from Analog to Digital Fax: As technology advanced, the limitations of traditional fax machines became apparent. This led to the emergence of digital faxing—a shift that brought about online fax solutions, virtual fax services, and electronic fax methods.

  • Evolution to Cloud Fax Services: Today, internet fax services like those provided by Fax.Plus offer a secure, efficient, and environmentally friendly alternative to old-fashioned faxing.

Use Cases and Industries

Online fax, virtual fax, and internet fax solutions, including electronic fax, are popular across various industries because of their efficiency and security:

Healthcare

Hospitals and clinics use online fax to securely send sensitive patient records while complying with HIPAA regulations.

Legal

Law firms rely on virtual fax services to transmit important documents quickly and securely.

Finance

Financial institutions benefit from internet faxing to ensure that their communications are not only fast but also compliant with regulatory standards.

Online Fax vs Other Faxing Methods

Traditional Fax Machines

Traditional faxing involves printing and scanning documents, which is not only time-consuming but also less secure. Online fax services provide a paperless, streamlined alternative.

IP Fax and VoIP Fax

While these methods also utilize digital networks, they may require specialized hardware or software. Virtual fax solutions simplify the process by using everyday digital tools like email and cloud storage.

Email vs Fax

Although email is quick and convenient, internet faxing offers the added benefits of legal validity and enhanced security for sensitive communications, making services like Fax.Plus an ideal choice.

Benefits of digital faxing

Related articles and how to guides

Send and receive faxes online anytime, anywhere. Enjoy full compatibility across web browsers, Windows, Mac, iOS, and Android devices, with support for PDFs, Word documents, and Google Docs.

FAQs

Can I send a fax without a fax machine?
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Yes! With online fax services, you can send a fax using your computer, smartphone, or tablet—no physical fax machine required. Fax.Plus makes this process exceptionally simple.
Is digital fax secure?
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Absolutely. Virtual fax platforms, including those from Fax.Plus, are built with advanced encryption and security protocols to ensure that your sensitive information remains protected.
Do I need a dedicated fax number?
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Many internet fax services provide dedicated fax numbers. However, some allow you to use your existing phone number or email address to send and receive faxes, depending on your business needs.

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