How to Fax From Linux

Faxing from Linux systems might seem challenging, but it’s actually quite straightforward. Whether you’re using Ubuntu, Fedora, or any other popular Linux distribution, there are efficient solutions available for sending and receiving faxes. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you can manage your faxing needs effectively on Linux.

Fax From Linux With FaxBurner

To fax from a Linux computer with FaxBurner, do the following: 

Step 1: Sign Up for a FaxBurner Account 

To send faxes online, visit the FaxBurner website and sign up for an account or download our app, which is available for iOS users. Choose the plan that best fits your needs. 

We offer different tiers, including a free option for occasional use and premium plans for more frequent usage.

During the sign-up process, you’ll be asked to provide some basic information, such as your email address. This is important because FaxBurner integrates with your email, making the faxing process seamless and easy to manage from your Linux device.

Once your account is set up, you’ll receive a confirmation email. 

Step 2: Compose a New Email to Send a Fax

Open your email client and compose a new email. To send a fax, attach the document you wish to fax. FaxBurner supports various formats like PDF, DOC, or JPG.

In the ‘To’ field, enter the recipient’s fax number, followed by “@faxburner.com”. For example, if the fax number is 123456789, you will enter “123456789@faxburner.com”.

You can add a cover letter if needed by typing it into the body of the email. Once you’re ready, click ‘Send’. FaxBurner will convert your email and attachment into a fax format and send it to the specified fax number.

Faxing with a Fax Modem

Fax modems allow you to send and receive faxes directly from your Linux computer without the need for a fax machine. So technically, this is what you need: 

A Compatible Fax Modem Model

Many external USB fax modems will work with Linux, as well as some internal PCI and PCIe fax modem cards. You’ll need to do some research to confirm Linux driver support before purchasing a fax modem. 

This means you should look up whether the modem can work with Linux, as this will ensure it functions correctly on your system. You can do this by checking the modem’s specifications on the manufacturer’s website or by looking for user reviews and discussions in Linux forums. 

Also, if you’re planning to use the fax modem in a server environment, make sure it’s designed for server use. Some fax modems are optimized for desktop use and may not perform as well in a server setup, which often requires handling higher volumes of data and more continuous operation.

Linux Faxing Software

There are a few different open source software choices for sending and receiving faxes in Linux with a modem:

• HylaFAX – A popular server fax software for enterprise use. Provides an interface for managing fax queues.
• mgetty+sendfax – Lightweight command line fax programs ideal for individual users. mgetty handles receiving while sendfax sends.

Most fax software will let you print documents from any program and then send them as a fax. Some have address book features for managing fax numbers.

After installing the fax software, configure it to use your modem device. Then you can start sending and receiving faxes directly from your Linux computer. 

Faxing from a Multifunction Printer

Many modern multifunction printers support fax capabilities along with printing, scanning, and copying. This allows you to send and receive faxes directly from the printer without needing a fax machine.

To fax from a multifunction printer:

• Ensure your printer model supports faxing. Most printers from major brands like HP, Canon, Brother, Epson, and Lexmark have fax capabilities. 
• Connect your printer to your Linux computer via USB, Ethernet, or WiFi, depending on your printer model.
• Once connected, access your printer’s interface page, which is typically accessible via your web browser. Here, you can configure fax settings and manage your fax address book.
• When you are ready to send your fax, upload your document to the web interface. Specify the recipient’s fax number and hit send.
• The printer will convert the document to fax format and dial out the fax number through its built-in fax modem. 

Start Faxing from Linux with Ease Today!

Buying, figuring out, and setting up a fax modem and software can be a real pain. So let’s save you the hassle, time, and a bit of cash.

Download our app and experience the convenience of FaxBurner!