FAX File Extension

What is FAX file?

Files with FAX extensions are typically used for storing fax documents, which are de facto scanned and appropriately processed TIFF images with added compression for easier distribution.

Can I change the size of a FAX file?

Fax machines typically allow users to change document quality before sending. The size of FAX file is determined by the compression ratio used: the higher the ratio, the smaller the output file and lesser the quality of the image. Thus, size of output FAX files can be changed on the application level.

How can I convert a FAX file?

Converting FAX to TIFF is possible using one of the available conversion tools. There even exist applications for smartphones that can generate preview TIFF images directly from FAX files. Fax machines automatically convert TIFF images to FAX files.

Programs which support FAX file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open FAX files divided into 3 categories according to system platform supported. Files with FAX suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 05/04/2022

How to open file with FAX extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening FAX files on given system. What is important, all common issues related to files with FAX extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Install Windows Photo Viewer software

Problems with opening and working with FAX files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with FAX files being present on your machine. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Windows Photo Viewer or different compatible program, such as XnView, Image viewer, MightyFax. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. The safest method of downloading Windows Photo Viewer installed is by going to developer’s website () and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update Windows Photo Viewer to the latest version

If the problems with opening FAX files still occur even after installing Windows Photo Viewer, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Windows Photo Viewer is available. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. The reason that Windows Photo Viewer cannot handle files with FAX may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of Windows Photo Viewer should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Fax Document files with Windows Photo Viewer

If you have the latest version of Windows Photo Viewer installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage FAX on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Change the default application in Windows

• Right-click the FAX file and choose Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where Windows Photo Viewer is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open FAX files and clicking OK.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with FAX extension, select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select Windows Photo Viewer and click Change for all...
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with FAX extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Ensure that the FAX file is complete and free of errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the FAX file is valid. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Check the FAX file for viruses or malware

If the FAX is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Scan the FAX file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the scanner detected that the FAX file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Verify that the FAX file’s structure is intact

If you obtained the problematic FAX file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. If the FAX file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Fax Document file again.

4. Check whether your system can handle Windows Photo Viewer

If the systems has insufficient resources to open FAX files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Fax Document files and ensure security of your device and operating system. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle FAX files.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the FAX file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on FAX file.