Businesses today have a plethora of options for communication and document sharing, including email, dedicated business team software, and social media platforms. While numerous innovative solutions have addressed these requirements, online faxing has emerged as a modern, convenient, and cost-effective alternative to traditional faxing.
As a contemporary adaptation of a time-tested method, online faxing is reshaping the way businesses send and receive documents, proving its relevance in a world that demands efficiency, security, and adaptability.
This article discusses six key insights about online faxing and its potential to enhance overall efficiency and productivity.
1. Online Faxing Is A Modern Alternative To Traditional Fax
Online faxing, also known as internet faxing or e-faxing, is the process of sending and receiving faxes via the Internet, eliminating the need for a physical fax machine, paper, or phone lines.
Users can access their online fax accounts through a web browser, email, or a dedicated mobile app. This digital alternative offers increased efficiency and convenience, allowing users to send and receive faxes from any location, provided they have an internet connection.
2. The Online Fax Industry Is Growing
According to statistics, almost 90% of companies still rely on faxing as a critical method of business communication. Over 60% of these businesses send at least 100 faxes monthly. Thanks to technology, online fax has become a preferred method, and the industry has only grown over the last decade.
In 2019, the online fax industry was valued at over three billion. It is expected to reach up to eight billion in 2027 with a 13.06% CAGR. Experts suggest that most businesses and institutions in the globe still believe that fax is more secure than other modern means of communication.
This helped pave the way for the sudden growth of the online fax industry. In fact, there are more online fax services available today. A simple Google search of ‘fax services near me‘ will give you hundreds of results in seconds.
3. It Uses Cloud Technology
Online fax software uses cloud technology that allows you to send and receive digital files via the Internet. Generally, most fax communication is carried out using the provider’s fax app or an online portal accessed via web browsers.
The software enables you to write your fax message and attach documents or files. Most providers also allow you to scan and send physical documents through mobile apps, uploading them as PDF files or images.
4. It Is Easy And Convenient To Use
Online faxing simplifies the process of sending and receiving faxes, making it a user-friendly and accessible option for individuals and businesses alike. Sending a fax online typically involves these easy steps:
- Sign up for an online fax service and obtain a dedicated fax number.
- Compose a new fax by attaching the document/s you wish to send.
- Enter the recipient’s fax number and any additional information your service provider requires.
- Click “Send” to transmit your fax.
Receiving a fax online is even simpler. Here’s how:
- When someone sends a fax to your dedicated online fax number, the service provider will convert the fax into a digital format.
- You will receive an email notification containing the incoming fax as an attachment or a link to view the fax online.
- Open the attachment or click the link to view
Indeed, online faxing offers an easy and convenient solution for both personal and professional communication needs.
5. Online Fax Is Cost-Efficient
The old faxing method is impractical. Setting up a fax system in your business can be expensive since the equipment will cost you a few thousand dollars. Aside from the machine, you must also purchase a phone line for every fax machine and hire a third-party vendor to handle maintenance and service calls. In addition to these upfront costs, you must consider expenses such as phone bill charges, paper, ink, and idle electricity.
Online faxing eliminates these costs. You only need to find a service provider and pay for their services, giving you access to a dedicated fax portal for sending and receiving faxes anytime, anywhere.
6. It Ensures Secure File Transfers
Cybersecurity is a big challenge to every modern business. With numerous regulatory laws pressuring businesses to stay compliant with data and information security, you must only take steps to ensure that your faxes are sent and received securely.
Traditional fax machines leave printed documents exposed, increasing the risk of unauthorized access or viewing. In contrast, a reputable online faxing service promises compliance with current data regulations in its software. They use state-of-the-art encryption, password protection, and other security tools to protect your account and data against cybercriminals.
7. It Had Environmental Benefits
Another advantage of online faxing is its positive impact on the environment. Traditional fax machines consume paper, ink, and energy, contributing to waste and environmental concerns.
Online faxing reduces paper consumption, as faxes are sent and received electronically, and eliminates the need for physical storage space. This helps businesses save resources, reduce their carbon footprint, and move towards a more sustainable and eco-friendly model.
Takeaway
Online faxing is a versatile and efficient alternative to traditional fax machines, offering cost savings, increased flexibility, and enhanced security. By understanding how online faxing works and considering its benefits and limitations, you can determine whether this technology is the right fit for your personal or professional needs.
