FoIP, or Fax over Internet Protocol, is a method of sending and receiving faxes via the internet instead of traditional phone lines. It digitizes fax communication by transmitting documents over IP networks, often using VoIP infrastructure.
Here’s a more detailed explanation:
What it is:
FoIP allows fax machines or fax software to send documents over the internet, eliminating the need for analog phone lines. It uses protocols such as T.38 to ensure fax data is reliably transmitted across digital networks.
How it works:
A fax machine or computer sends a fax, which is converted into digital packets and transmitted via the internet to the recipient’s fax system or email. Gateways and ATA (Analog Telephone Adapters) can help traditional fax machines connect to VoIP systems.
Benefits:
- Cost savings: Reduces the need for dedicated fax lines.
- Convenience: Allows faxes to be sent/received from computers or cloud services.
- Scalability: Easily integrate into digital workflows in modern businesses.
Key components:
- T.38 protocol for real-time fax transmission over IP
- Fax server or cloud-based fax service
- ATA or IP-enabled fax machine
Why it’s beneficial:
FoIP modernizes a legacy process, improves reliability over VoIP, and enables document archiving, searchability, and integration with CRM or document management systems.