How to Send a Fax From a Computer Without the Internet

Send a fax from a computer without the Internet. Use your computer's built-in fax modem to send important documents to work associates or friends. Instead of paying an extra monthly fee for an Internet fax account, you can use an existing standard phone line.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Fax modem
• Windows XP operating system
• Windows XP CD
• Fax number
• Standard phone line

Instructions

1. Install the necessary fax component onto your Windows XP computer system. To successfully do this, you'll need to log on as a computer administrator. Having this level of authorization will allow you full access to multiple features and settings on your computer system. Without administrator access, your access will be greatly limited. You'll also need a standard phone line to send a successful fax.

2. Plug your phone cord into the nearest phone jack in the wall. Connect the other end of the cord to the connection labeled modem on the back of your computer system. Click the "Start" button located at the lower left corner of your computer screen. A pop-up window will appear with multiple settings. Open the "Control Panel" link by clicking it. You'll be directed to another page with more settings to choose from. Select the "Add or Remove Programs" link listed on the page.

3. Place your mouse cursor on the "Add/Remove Windows Components" and click it. After completing this step, a "Windows Component Wizard" will appear to guide you through the rest of the setup process. Several services will appear in the list for you to choose from.

4. Enter a check into the box next to the "Fax Services" location. Click the "Next" button once this has been done. Within a few minutes, the necessary fax components will be installed onto your Windows XP computer system. To successfully install these files, you may be prompted to insert the Microsoft Windows XP CD that came with your computer and press the "OK" button. After the installation process has completed the setup, press the "Finish" and "Close" buttons.

5. Click the "Start" button on the lower left corner of your computer screen to open more options. Select the "All Programs" link, click the "Communications" link and then choose the "Fax" folder link. Once this has been selected, you'll be able to open the "Fax Console" area to access the faxing features on your computer system.

6. Select the "Next" button to move through the initial fax configuration process. You'll be instantly prompted to enter basic details such as your name, fax number, email address and physical address. When finished, click the "Next" button again to move forward. Choose your fax device from the drop-down list next to "Please Select the Fax Device."

7. Place a check next to the boxes labeled "Enable Send" and "Enable Receive." Follow the onscreen prompts to select a printer for incoming faxes and entering your own fax number. Press the "Finish" button when you've completed this part. You'll be ready to send faxes from your computer system without using the Internet.

8. Open the document, email or web page you'd like to fax to someone. After doing this, click the "File" link located at the top right of the page or document. When the drop-down list of options appear, click the "Print" link. A dialog box will appear for you to choose more options. In the "Printer" area, select "Fax" and then click the "Print" button.

9. Click the "Next" button located on the "Welcome to the Send Fax Wizard" page. Enter the recipient's fax number and name. Select the "Next" button when finished. Place a check next to the "Select a Cover Page Template" if you'd like to include a personalized cover page. If not, then leave this area blank.

10. Decide if you'd like the fax to be sent immediately or later on the "Schedule" page. You can also decide if the fax should be considered very important or normal. After you've completed this step, click the "Next" button to finish the process. Press the "Preview Fax" button located on the final wizard page. Select the "Finish" button when done and your fax will be sent to the recipient.

Tips & Warnings

• Always use a standard phone line when sending a fax without the Internet.

• Don't try to use a digital phone line for sending a fax with your computer.