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What is eFax?

A guide to digital faxing

eFax (or electronic fax) is a digital cloud-based service that allows you to send and receive faxes via the internet rather than a physical fax machine and a telephone line.It converts documents into digital formats (like PDF or TIFF) and transmits them through email, a web portal, or a mobile app.

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How eFax Workslink to this section

  • Sending: You upload a document to a digital platform or attach it to an email addressed to the recipient’s fax number (e.g., 1234567890@efaxprovider.com).
  • Transmission: The eFax provider’s servers convert the digital file into a signal that traditional fax machines can interpret.
  • Receiving: When someone sends a fax to your dedicated eFax number, the provider converts the incoming signal into a digital file and delivers it directly to your inbox.

Key Benefits of eFax vs. Traditional Faxlink to this section

Feature
Traditional Fax
eFax (Cloud Fax)
Hardware
Physical machine, ink, paper
Smartphone, tablet, or PC
Connection
Analog Phone Line (POTS)
Internet / Cloud
Mobility
Tied to an office location
Accessible anywhere
Security
Documents left on paper trays
Encrypted digital delivery
Cost
High (maintenance, supplies)
Low (subscription-based)

Why Businesses Use eFaxlink to this section

  • Enhanced Security: Most eFax providers offer AES encryption, helping businesses remain compliant with regulations like
  • HIPAA or GDPR.Cost Efficiency: Eliminates the need for dedicated phone lines, toner, and hardware maintenance.
  • Scalability: Easily add new numbers or users without installing physical infrastructure.
  • Environmentally Friendly: Reduces paper waste by keeping documents digital unless a hard copy is necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)link to this section

Do I need a phone line to use eFax?

No. Unlike traditional faxing, eFax operates entirely over the internet. You do not need a landline, a fax machine, or any additional hardware. All you need is an internet connection and an email account or a web-enabled device.

Is eFax more secure than a physical fax machine?

In most cases, yes. Traditional faxes often sit on open paper trays where anyone can read them. eFax documents are delivered directly to your private, encrypted inbox.

What file types are supported by eFax?

eFax supports a wide variety of common business formats. The most popular include PDF, TIFF, and Microsoft Word (.doc/.docx), as well as image files like JPG and PNG.

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