Start EssentialFax and click the Settings button. (same as File > Set Preferences)
Choose your modem
At the Preferences screen, go to item # 1 to select your modem. You can use either method to select the modem, either selecting the communications port directly, or selecting the modem from Windows modem list.
Set up for fax sending
Go to the Sending section, part 1, item # 4 to set the fax class for sending faxes. Unless you have a specific reason otherwise, you should choose Fax Class 1.
For Item # 5, we advise using a transfer rate of 9600.
At item # 6, click the Help with Init Strings button and let EssentialFax assist you to choose your Modem Initialization String for sending.
Set up for fax receiving
Go to the Receiving section, part 2, item # 15 to set the fax class. Unless you have a specific reason otherwise, you should choose Fax Class 1.
For Item # 16, we advise using a transfer rate of 9600.
At item # 17, click the Help with Init Strings button and let EssentialFax assist you to choose your Modem Initialization String for receiving. This should almost always be the same as item # 6 (fax sending).
As a final check, click on the Quick Recommendations button, and accept any changes that are appropriate.
That should be all you need to get started.