A digital fax machine lets you send and receive faxes over the internet — no hardware, no phone line, no paper. Learn how it works, who needs one, and how to get started in minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a digital fax machine?
A digital fax machine is a software-based service that lets you send and receive faxes over the internet instead of through a physical device and phone line. You use it from a computer, phone, or tablet — no hardware required.
How does a digital fax machine work?
A digital fax machine converts your document into a digital signal, transmits it securely over the internet, and delivers it to the recipient's fax number — whether that's another digital fax service or a traditional fax machine. The recipient never knows the difference.
Is a digital fax machine HIPAA compliant?
It can be. HIPAA-compliant digital fax services use end-to-end encryption, access controls, and audit logs to protect Protected Health Information (PHI). Look for services that offer a Business Associate Agreement (BAA) — this is required for HIPAA compliance. [mFax Business](https://mfax.to/business/) includes encryption and BAA support.
How much does a digital fax machine cost?
Digital fax services typically cost $5–$50/month depending on volume and features. Pay-per-fax options are available from as low as a few cents per page. This compares favorably to traditional fax machines, which cost $200–$500 upfront plus ongoing expenses for paper, toner, and a dedicated phone line.
Can a digital fax machine receive faxes from a traditional fax machine?
Yes. Digital fax machines are fully interoperable with traditional hardware fax machines. When you sign up, you get a standard fax number that any fax machine in the world can dial. Incoming faxes are delivered to your email or app inbox as PDF files.