Method of sending data over a computer network

Abstract

A method and apparatus for transmitting data, such as class 1, 2, or 3 facsimile image data streams, over Internet Global Area Networks. In one embodiment of the invention related to the transmission of facsimile data, a first device converts local facsimile image data streams into electronic data streams, transmits the data stream over the network, to a second device at the remote facsimile machine which reconverts the electronic data to facsimile image data and prints it out on said remote facsimile machine.

1 . A method of transmitting facsimile data over a computer network, said method comprising the steps of:
 assigning a destination address to said facsimile data;   converting said facsimile data to a format suitable for delivery to a server or router; and   transmitting said converted facsimile data to said server or router.   
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said converting step includes the step of converting said facsimile data to a MIME enabled format. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  2 , wherein said transmitting step includes the step of transmitting said facsimile data to an electronic mail agent. 
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 1 , further including the step of encrypting said facsimile data prior to delivery to said server or router. 
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 4 , wherein said encrypting step includes a public/private key for encrypting said facsimile data. 
     
     
         6 . The method of  claim 1 , further including the step of decrypting said facsimile data after delivery to said server or router. 
     
     
         7 . The method of  claim 6 , wherein said decrypting step includes a public/private key for decrypting said facsimile data. 
     
     
         8 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said transmitting step includes the step of transmitting said converted facsimile date to said server or router that resides on the Internet. 
     
     
         9 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said transmitting step includes the step of transmitting said facsimile data to a public mail server. 
     
     
         10 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said converting step includes the step of converting said facsimile data in the form of a digital image to a format suitable for delivery to a server or router. 
     
     
         11 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said converting step includes the step of converting said facsimile date in the form of a Group 1, 2 or 3 facsimile machine standard to a format suitable for delivery to a server or router.