Whether it's business or personal use, VoIP networks are integral parts of our modern communication. Skype calls, MagicJack, Google Voice and Vonage are just some of the most popular examples of digital communication networks that transfer a lot of data on day-to-day basis.

Most of these networks allow sending PDF documents and other kinds of files to the other party, so why not Fax messages as well, right? Well, unfortunately, that's not an option that is available, as there's no plugin, addon, cheat, hack or a mod that will allow you to send or receive fax messages over VoIP.

The reason behind this is a simple fact that Fax machines are designed to take analog signal from fax landlines, and VoIP protocols take an already digital file format (input from the PC) and re-compile it in their own digital format, compressing it further for faster internet transfer. Fax machines are simply not able to read a signal that has been converted that way, all of the signals get scrambled up beyond recognition.

If you really need to send faxes but you use PC and VoIP methods of getting in touch with your clients/contacts, you will have to make do some other way – here's are some advice on what to do when you have to send a fax and you don't have a fax machine or a landline phone.

Matt Gerchow

Matt Gerchow is an author, marketer, inventor, husband, father and yoga enthusiast. He enjoys travel to distant lands , fine wine, time with his family and dinner with friends.