Updated: 12/18/24
For many businesses, faxing remains a vital method of communication. While email and digital solutions are widely adopted, industries such as healthcare, government, and insurance still rely heavily on faxing for secure document sharing, regulatory compliance, and customer interactions.
When businesses consider upgrading to a VoIP phone system, a common concern is:
“Can I keep my fax machine and fax number?”
The good news is: yes, you can. However, there are smarter, more cost-effective options that allow you to modernize your faxing capabilities while maintaining continuity.
This guide will walk you through the options for keeping your fax number and capabilities when transitioning to a VoIP system—ensuring a seamless upgrade with no interruptions to your business communications.
What Happens to Faxing When Switching to VoIP?
When upgrading to a VoIP phone system, there are two primary options for managing your fax capabilities:
- Porting your fax number to a Webfax service.
- Keeping your existing fax line connected to a traditional fax machine.
Let’s break these options down.
Option 1: Port Your Fax Number to Webfax (Recommended)
One of the most popular and forward-thinking options is to port your existing fax number to a Webfax service. Webfax allows you to send and receive faxes digitally, without the need for a physical fax machine.
Here’s how it works:
- Receiving Faxes: Inbound faxes are delivered directly to your email inbox as digital files.
- Sending Faxes: You can send faxes from your computer or mobile device using an internet-based portal or app.
- Recipient Experience: The recipient still receives the fax as they normally would on their fax machine—they won’t notice any difference.
Benefits of Switching to Webfax
-
Eliminate Outdated Hardware
Say goodbye to toner, paper, and bulky fax machines. Free up office space and reduce maintenance costs. Fun fact: You’ll no longer have to deal with junk faxes like Chinese food menus! -
Cut Costs
Traditional fax lines can cost $30–$80 per month. Webfax services are typically much cheaper, saving your business hundreds annually. -
Flexibility for Your Team
Employees can send and receive faxes anywhere with an internet connection—at home, on the road, or from a job site. Each team member can even have their own direct fax line, reducing confusion and improving productivity. -
Never Lose a Fax Again
Faxes are stored digitally in your email inbox or an online portal, ensuring you always have a backup. No more misplaced papers or scrambling to find important documents.
Option 2: Keep Your Existing Fax Line and Machine
For businesses hesitant to fully transition to digital faxing, there’s the option to keep your traditional fax line and machine. While this allows you to maintain your current setup, it’s not the most cost-effective or reliable solution.
Here’s why:
- You’ll continue paying for a traditional fax line, which can be costly.
- Maintaining a physical fax machine means ongoing expenses for paper, toner, and repairs.
- You miss out on the flexibility and efficiency of digital faxing.
Can I Use My Existing Fax Machine with a VoIP System?
If you’re determined to keep your fax machine, it’s possible to integrate it with a VoIP phone system using an Analog Telephone Adapter (ATA). This device converts digital signals from your VoIP service into analog signals that your fax machine can understand.
However, we don’t recommend this approach, and here’s why:
The Reliability Issue
When faxes are transmitted through an ATA, translation issues can occur. For example:
- Multi-page faxes may arrive incomplete.
- Some faxes may fail to transmit entirely.
This inconsistency makes it difficult to rely on your fax machine as a communication tool. If your business depends on accurate and timely faxing, this method isn’t ideal.
Why Webfax is the Best Choice for Your Business
Upgrading to a Webfax solution offers a modern, reliable, and cost-effective way to manage fax communications. Here’s why it’s the superior option:
- Port Your Fax Number: Keep your existing fax number for continuity while ditching outdated technology.
- Save Money: Eliminate the cost of traditional fax lines and reduce expenses related to fax machine maintenance.
- Increase Efficiency: Employees can access faxes digitally from anywhere, improving response times and productivity.
- Enhance Security: Digital faxing solutions often include encryption and other security features to ensure compliance with industry regulations.
Real-World Example: A Smooth Transition for Regulated Industries
One of our healthcare clients was hesitant to upgrade their phone system because they relied heavily on faxes for patient records and insurance forms. By porting their fax numbers to Webfax, they achieved the following:
- Maintained HIPAA compliance with secure, encrypted digital faxing.
- Reduced costs by eliminating three traditional fax lines.
- Gave staff the ability to send and receive faxes remotely during telehealth appointments.
Ready to Upgrade to VoIP Without Losing Your Fax Capabilities?
At TeleCloud, we specialize in seamless VoIP transitions that preserve your faxing capabilities while enhancing your communication systems. Whether you’re ready to embrace Webfax or need help deciding the best solution, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Talk to a TeleCloud Expert Today and let’s make your switch to VoIP smooth, efficient, and worry-free.
