Choose basic fax software for your PC

If you have Windows XP, the built-in fax service can cover basic faxing needs for individuals and small businesses. (You may have to install the program from your Windows XP CD.) Third-party fax software solutions, however, often come with a broader set of features as well as technical support.

I recommend: Check out MightyFax, FaxTalk FaxCenter Pro, SnappyFax, VentaFax, Fax Machine, and FindApp.com's Phone and Fax List. To use the built-in fax service with Windows XP, read Microsoft's online tech support article.

Choose an internet fax service

Internet fax services let you use a combination of Web browser and email to send and receive faxes, and they come with a dedicated fax number that you can give to clients or business partners, which you can upgrade to a toll-free number. Plus, Internet fax services can easily scale with your business as you send and receive more faxes or add employees.

I recommend: Check out eFax, Send2Fax, ClickFax, MyFax, MaxEmail, FaxMicro, RingCentral Internet Fax, and TopTenREVIEWS's Faxing Services Review.

Choose enterprise fax software for your whole business

If you send a large number of faxes or need to integrate fax capabilities with a broad array of business applications, you're going to need robust fax software and maybe even a fax server.

I recommend: Check out TargetFax, FAXCOM Fax Server, GoldFax, OneTouch Global Technologies Fax Server, Protus MyFax, FaxBack, and Biscom.