Internet Fax

Internet fax, e-fax, or online fax is a general term which refers to the use of the Internet to send a document fax, rather than using only phone networks (traditional faxing) with a fax machine. The term "Internet fax" encompasses "web fax" and "email fax," along with VoIP fax, which refers to the use of Voice over IP to send a fax. However, Internet fax should not be confused with IP fax.

Depending on the specific method/implementation (see below), advantages of using the Internet can include:

1. no hardware; no software
2. no extra telephone line required for fax
3. paperless communication, integrated with email
4. the ability to send and receive multiple faxes simultaneously
5. a reduction in phone costs, along with lower costs than traditional fax
6. the ability to send and receive faxes from any location that has Internet access
7. the ability to send and receive faxes from mobile phones, smartphones and tablets

Note that depending on which method is used, suitable equipment and/or the use of a gateway is required (see below).