In a system comprising a computer in communication with a multi-function imaging machine having a printer section and a fax section, and a user input device, a method of operating the multi-function imaging machine, comprising the steps of setting one or more fax settings; providing a fax settings lock for user selection; and locking fax settings for said fax section using said fax settings lock when selected. The fax settings, which include at least one of speed dial settings, group settings and junk fax list, can be provided for viewing on the computer as read-only values while allowing for additions to said speed dial settings, group settings and junk fax list from said computer.