Fax server

A fax server is a set of software running on a server computer which is equipped with one or more fax-capable modems. Its function is to accept documents from users, convert them into faxes, and transmit them, as well as to receive fax calls and either store the incoming documents or pass them on to users. The fax server is attached to telephone lines or to IP network (because there is possibility to transmit the signal over network via “Fax over IP” technology). Users can access to the server through either a local network or the Internet.

Methods for outgoing faxes:

As an e-mail message can be sent to a special e-mail address; the fax server monitoring that address converts all such messages into fax format and transmits them.
As a "virtual printing" which, instead of producing a paper printout, sends the document to the fax server, which then transmits it.
Fax can be sent through a web interface, where you upload files, which are transmitted to the fax server for faxing.
Or can be used specialized software.

Interfaces for incoming faxes:

The recipient receives an e-mail message for each fax received, with the pages included as attachments, typically in either TIFF or PDF format.
Incoming faxes may be stored in a dedicated file directory, which the user can monitor.
The recipient can claim fax through a website after log in.
Or (as above) can be used specialized software.

Comparison of paper and software-using fax machines

Users can send and receive faxes without leaving their desks.
Any printable computer file can be faxed, without having to first print the document on paper.
The number of fax lines in an organization can be reduced, as the server can queue large numbers of faxes and send each when any of a number of lines is free.
There is less clutter of office equipment; incoming faxes can be printed on a standard computer printer.
Printer jams on malfunctioning fax printers may be reprinted without being re-faxed.
Faxing may be monitored and/or recorded, so that users may be allocated quotas or charged fees, or to ensure compliance with data-retention and financial laws.
Fax Servers can be located centrally in an organization’s data centers providing resilience and Disaster recover facilities to a traditionally desktop technology.

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