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Your Computer as a Fax Machine

Using the Windows XP Fax Server for Internet Fax Capabilities

May 8, 2007

Set up Windows XP fax services on your computer.

Paying to use a fax machine at your local office supply store can get quite expensive. Just the drive alone takes up valuable time and mileage. And, buying a fax machine may not be a feasible option. So, why not use your computer as a fax machine? As long as your computer has a modem installed you can use your Windows XP computer to send and receive faxes over the Internet with no additional software purchase required.

Installing the Fax Component

First, you need to verify that the fax component of Windows XP is installed. The fax component is a default feature of Windows XP Professional. If you are using Windows XP Home edition you will need to install the fax component. To complete this step you will need to be logged into your computer with administrative privileges. Use the Add/Remove Windows Components tool found in the Add/Remove Programs utility to install the fax component.

Setting up Fax Services

Next, you need to set up the Windows XP fax services. To do this choose the “Install a local fax printer” link from the “Printers and Faxes” utility. Double-click on the “Fax” icon to start the “Fax Configuration Wizard”. Fill out the form as completely as possible. You will need to provide your name, the number on which you wish to receive faxes and your email. Click “Next” and “Finish” to complete the wizard. This will open the Fax Console window. You are now ready to send and receive faxes.

Sending a Fax

To send a fax, click on the “New Fax” icon on the Fax Console window toolbar. Enter the name and number of the recipient for the fax and click “Next”. Use the “Cover page template” list arrow to select a cover page design. Fill in the subject line and add the message you wish to send to the recipient in the “Notes” area. Choose whether to send the fax at the present time or at a set time in the future. You can also adjust the priority setting of the fax if needed. Preview the fax before finishing the “Send Fax Wizard”. Faxes sent from your computer will be saved in the Outbox folder of the Fax Console. You can send documents via fax by choosing the “Print to fax” menu command in Microsoft Word.

Once the Windows XP fax services are set up you can choose to receive faxes manually or automatically. Use the “Configure Fax” option on the “Tools” menu of the Fax Console to set your preference. When you receive a fax it will be saved in the Fax Console’s Inbox folder.

The copyright of the article Your Computer as a Fax Machine in PC Software/OS is owned by Katherine Bennett. Permission to republish Your Computer as a Fax Machine in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.