What is cloud-based fax?

Cloud-based fax is a service that routes fax transmissions over the internet rather than traditional phone lines. You send documents through a web portal, email, or mobile app; the provider's servers handle the conversion and delivery to any fax number worldwide. No fax machine or phone line required. See our [cloud fax guide](/blog/cloud-fax/) for a deeper technical explanation.

Is cloud-based fax HIPAA compliant?

It can be — but not automatically. A provider is HIPAA-compliant only if it uses end-to-end encryption, maintains audit logs, provides access controls, and signs a Business Associate Agreement (BAA). Providers that include a BAA on all plans include mFax Business, Sfax, and SRFax Healthcare. See our [HIPAA compliant fax guide](/blog/hipaa-compliant-fax/) for full requirements.

Can I keep my existing fax number when switching to cloud fax?

Yes — most cloud fax providers support number porting, which transfers your existing fax number to the new service. The process typically takes 7–14 business days. See our [fax number porting guide](/blog/fax-number-porting/) for step-by-step instructions. Note that some providers (like Fax.Plus) restrict porting to higher-tier plans.

How much does cloud-based fax cost?

Plans range from $8–$50/month for most businesses, depending on page volume and features. Entry-level plans (200–500 pages/month) cost $8.99–$14.99/month. HIPAA-compliant plans typically start at $20–$37/month. mFax Business starts at $20.99/month with HIPAA compliance included at no extra charge.

Is cloud-based fax more secure than a traditional fax machine?

Yes — in most cases. Cloud fax providers use AES-256 encryption at rest and TLS 1.2/1.3 in transit. Traditional fax machines print documents directly to an output tray where they can be read by anyone. Cloud fax delivers to a private inbox with access controls and audit logs, which is why healthcare and legal industries prefer it.

Cloud-Based Fax: How It Works & Best Providers (2026)

Cloud-based fax lets you send and receive faxes entirely over the internet — no fax machine, no dedicated phone line, no hardware to manage. Compare the best cloud-based fax services of 2026 by price, HIPAA compliance, and features to find the right fit for your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is cloud-based fax?: Cloud-based fax is a service that routes fax transmissions over the internet rather than traditional phone lines. You send documents through a web portal, email, or mobile app; the provider's servers handle the conversion and delivery to any fax number worldwide. No fax machine or phone line required. See our [cloud fax guide](/blog/cloud-fax/) for a deeper technical explanation.
Is cloud-based fax HIPAA compliant?: It can be — but not automatically. A provider is HIPAA-compliant only if it uses end-to-end encryption, maintains audit logs, provides access controls, and signs a Business Associate Agreement (BAA). Providers that include a BAA on all plans include mFax Business, Sfax, and SRFax Healthcare. See our [HIPAA compliant fax guide](/blog/hipaa-compliant-fax/) for full requirements.
Can I keep my existing fax number when switching to cloud fax?: Yes — most cloud fax providers support number porting, which transfers your existing fax number to the new service. The process typically takes 7–14 business days. See our [fax number porting guide](/blog/fax-number-porting/) for step-by-step instructions. Note that some providers (like Fax.Plus) restrict porting to higher-tier plans.
How much does cloud-based fax cost?: Plans range from $8–$50/month for most businesses, depending on page volume and features. Entry-level plans (200–500 pages/month) cost $8.99–$14.99/month. HIPAA-compliant plans typically start at $20–$37/month. mFax Business starts at $20.99/month with HIPAA compliance included at no extra charge.
Is cloud-based fax more secure than a traditional fax machine?: Yes — in most cases. Cloud fax providers use AES-256 encryption at rest and TLS 1.2/1.3 in transit. Traditional fax machines print documents directly to an output tray where they can be read by anyone. Cloud fax delivers to a private inbox with access controls and audit logs, which is why healthcare and legal industries prefer it.