Does Windows 10 have built-in fax software?

Yes. Windows 10 includes Windows Fax and Scan, which can send and receive faxes — but only if you connect a USB fax modem and an active analog phone line. Without that hardware, it cannot transmit anything. For most users today, an online fax service like [mFax.to](https://mfax.to) is the practical alternative.

What is the best free fax software for Windows?

Windows Fax and Scan is free but requires a modem and landline. Among cloud services, Fax.Plus offers 10 free lifetime pages. For regular faxing, mFax Business starts at $20.99/month with a free trial — the best value if you send more than a few faxes per month.

Can I fax from Windows 10 or 11 without a phone line?

Yes. Cloud-based services like mFax.to, eFax, Fax.Plus, and RingCentral Fax all work entirely over the internet — no modem or landline needed. You access them through any browser on Windows 10 or 11. See our full guide to [faxing from Windows 10](/blog/fax-from-windows-10/) for step-by-step instructions.

Is Windows Fax and Scan available on Windows 11?

Not by default. Microsoft removed it from Windows 11's standard install. You can add it manually via Settings > Apps > Optional Features > Add a Feature > "Windows Fax and Scan." However, it is not available at all on ARM-based Windows 11 devices (Surface Pro X, Surface Pro 11, Surface Laptop 7).

Which fax software for Windows is HIPAA compliant?

mFax Business and RingCentral Fax include HIPAA compliance and a Business Associate Agreement (BAA) on all paid plans. eFax requires its $50/month Protect plan. Fax.Plus only offers HIPAA compliance on its Enterprise tier. Windows Fax and Scan has no HIPAA compliance at all. See our [HIPAA faxing guide](/blog/is-faxing-hipaa-compliant/) for full details.

Best Fax Software for Windows 10/11: Top 5 Reviewed

Not all fax software works equally well on Windows. We tested and compared the top five options — from cloud services to the built-in Windows Fax and Scan app — so you can pick the right tool without wasting time or money.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Windows 10 have built-in fax software?: Yes. Windows 10 includes Windows Fax and Scan, which can send and receive faxes — but only if you connect a USB fax modem and an active analog phone line. Without that hardware, it cannot transmit anything. For most users today, an online fax service like [mFax.to](https://mfax.to) is the practical alternative.
What is the best free fax software for Windows?: Windows Fax and Scan is free but requires a modem and landline. Among cloud services, Fax.Plus offers 10 free lifetime pages. For regular faxing, mFax Business starts at $20.99/month with a free trial — the best value if you send more than a few faxes per month.
Can I fax from Windows 10 or 11 without a phone line?: Yes. Cloud-based services like mFax.to, eFax, Fax.Plus, and RingCentral Fax all work entirely over the internet — no modem or landline needed. You access them through any browser on Windows 10 or 11. See our full guide to [faxing from Windows 10](/blog/fax-from-windows-10/) for step-by-step instructions.
Is Windows Fax and Scan available on Windows 11?: Not by default. Microsoft removed it from Windows 11's standard install. You can add it manually via Settings > Apps > Optional Features > Add a Feature > "Windows Fax and Scan." However, it is not available at all on ARM-based Windows 11 devices (Surface Pro X, Surface Pro 11, Surface Laptop 7).
Which fax software for Windows is HIPAA compliant?: mFax Business and RingCentral Fax include HIPAA compliance and a Business Associate Agreement (BAA) on all paid plans. eFax requires its $50/month Protect plan. Fax.Plus only offers HIPAA compliance on its Enterprise tier. Windows Fax and Scan has no HIPAA compliance at all. See our [HIPAA faxing guide](/blog/is-faxing-hipaa-compliant/) for full details.