Reports of burglars being caught by tech-savvy homeowners and their webcams are on the increase, but if you really one to stay one step ahead of the criminals you should consider investing in a network camera (also known as IP cameras).

Unlike webcams, network cameras run their own web server and therefore have no requirement to be attached to a PC. Plugging directly into your router, you'll be able to view the video stream and alter settings from any internet-connected PC.

Axis has a range of network cameras, with the 212 PTZ being aimed more at the business market. Its most notable feature is the large fish-eye lens, which affords the camera an extra-large field of view. As with all fish-eye lenses, when fully zoomed out the image appears distorted with curved edges, but you can still see what's going on.

The 3megapixel sensor allows for 3x zooming that doesn't affect image quality; this is performed simply by cropping the image. The lack of an optical zoom means you can't zoom in any further, but with no moving parts the camera won't be so susceptible to damage caused through over use - nor will an unsuspecting burglar be spooked by a whirring noise when you zoom in to get a closer look.

Most network cameras are video-only devices, however Axis has managed to squeeze in a microphone into the 212 PTZ along with audio in/out sockets, enabling two-way voice conversations to accompany the video.

Another interesting feature is built-in power over Ethernet (PoE) so, if you've got a PoE router, you won't need to plug the 212 PTZ into the mains. You'll still need the Ethernet cable, but it's one less wire out of the equation.

The web interface is very similar to that seen on Axis cameras in the past. It's reasonably clearly laid out and doesn't take too long to get to grips with the basic settings, but when you start delving into the advanced options you might run in to trouble if you're a novice user.

Via this interface you can instruct the camera to email you if a moving figure is detected anywhere on screen; screenshots of the action can also be instantly uploaded to an FTP site. You can further tailor the motion detection by setting up certain zones to be monitored.

Other features include an angled wall mount (complete with screwdriver and drill template) and a 1.8m power cable extension, but Axis hasn't found room to include an Ethernet cable in the package.

Video quality is reasonable, but don't expect crystal-clear images. It struggles in low light conditions, but in well-lit surroundings it's on a par with other network cameras we've tested. Take a look at our screenshots of the Axis 212-PTZ in action in the PCW Labs.

Pricing varies depending on where you buy it, but expect to pay around £439 including VAT. With no wireless capabilities it does seem a little expensive for what you get, but there are few network cameras that can match the 212 PTZ's wide-angle lens and wealth of other features.

Also consider:
Panasonic BL-C30
A network camera with a pan and tilt lens but no microphone

D-Link DCS-2100G
A relatively expensive option, but easy to set up and use

All network camera reviews