But IP networks, in conjunction with Axis network video solutions, can offer much more. Some of the benefits are briefly outlined below, while others are detailed in Designing a system. See also how network video solutions have advantages over PC-based Web cams and analog camera-based CCTV systems.

Image quality: Image quality is one of the key aspects of Axis network video products, which have continued to set the standard in the industry. In addition to developing image processing chips and sophisticated algorithms tailored for network camera applications, Axis also provides a range of video compression standards (Motion JPEG, MPEG-4, MPEG-2) for users to choose from. In many network video products, both Motion JPEG and MPEG-4 are supported simultaneously. This enables you, for example, to view at full frame rate with MPEG-4 and

record at the same time with Motion JPEG, allowing for optimization in image quality and bandwidth. Read more on image quality or compression standards.
 
Wide ranging network video products: You can find fixed network cameras for both indoor and outdoor applications, as well as pan/tilt/zoom and network dome cameras that enable remote control of pan, tilt and zoom functions over IP networks. Axis also offers video servers that help analog CCTV systems take advantage of the benefits of a digital, networked world. Video management software and accessories such as network camera housings and devices that bridge between analog and digital, are also available. See product list.

Audio: Besides visually being able to see remotely from any networked computer, anywhere and at any time, Axis also provides products that enable two-way audio communication over networks. This allows you to not only hear what's going on remotely, but also speak through the network. With both visual and audio communication, you can question intruders, conduct remote education, troubleshooting, or broadcast both sights and sounds of a location or event on Web sites. Read more on audio.

Event functionality: Axis network video products enable users to set and manage alarm events. Once an alarm is set, either as scheduled, or via input/outputs, video motion or audio detection, you can automatically request that certain actions be performed; for instance, start sending and recording images to specified destinations, send alerts to specific individuals via e-mail or SMS to a mobile telephone, activate lights, turn alarm on or off, open or lock doors, control temperature levels etc. Read more on event handling.

Triggering mechanisms: A wide range of triggering mechanisms (whether built into the product or available in a software package) can be incorporated into an Axis network video system. 

Schedule: You may schedule a time for the network video product to perform certain actions; e.g. start sending and recording images every evening, on weekends or on holidays. 

Inputs/Outputs (I/O): Many Axis network cameras and video servers have input/output ports that can be connected to doorbells, detectors (e.g. smoke, movement, sound, temperature sensors), lights, switches and alarm relays. When input mechanisms are triggered, you can automatically request that certain actions be performed.

Video motion detection: This feature essentially allows you to define areas of a screen where you want to detect any visual changes. When a change is detected, you may request a number of things to be done automatically.

Recording: You can set up the network video system to save the video data to a file server at a local or distant location for security reasons and at certain time intervals, or when motion is detected, for later viewing and analysis. Images can be uploaded via e-mail, FTP or HTTP. For easier management of video recording, storage and viewing, video management software from Axis and its Application Development Partners are available. See video management software.. Read more on Storage needs and solutions.

Power over Ethernet: With a network video solution, you have the option of using the same Ethernet cable both for data communications as well as power. This feature makes it easier to install products since an electrician is not required and the network video product is able to operate even when there is a power failure. Read more on Power over Ethernet.

Security: Axis network video products provide many security features; among them, different levels of password protected access to the products. For example, using predefined passwords, certain people may only have the rights to view live images with no access to the product's configuration, while the administrator would have full access to configure the product's settings and security features. Another security feature is IP address filtering, which allows only predefined IP addresses to access the product. Some Axis products also provide HTTPS for encrypted communication. Read more on security.