How to Fax Via a Landline

By Pamela Hilliard Owens, M.

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As the second decade of the new millennium begins, more and more people and small businesses are completely “cutting the cord”—eliminating their traditional landline phones altogether. The one holdout, especially for entrepreneurs and business owners, is the fax line. Often, fax transmissions contain multiple pages, which are difficult to scan as is necessary for faxing by computer. Although there are many Internet- and computer-based faxing options, many people still find it easier and more convenient to use a stand-alone fax machine. That option requires a regular landline telephone or a phone using VoIP (Voice Over Internet Protocol).

How to Fax Via a Landline

Step 1

Decide if you are going to use a traditional landline account or a VoIP account through your cable company. Part of your decision should include the pros and cons of using your fax line as a regular telephone line and a fax line or as a dedicated fax number.

Step 2

Step up your fax machine according to the directions included in the instruction manual, including programming your name, entering the correct date and time, and the ring options.

Step 3

Connect the proper end of your choice of a telephone line cord (traditional or VoIP) into the indicated outgoing slot in your fax machine and the other end into the incoming phone connection.

Step 4

Test your new standalone fax machine setup by either sending a test fax to yourself from your computer or by sending a test fax to a friend. Adjust your settings as necessary.

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