The fundamental goal of surveillance technology is to know where, when, and who has access to a facility. Ideally this is done by constantly monitoring critical points of access, augmented by practical observation of perimeter access barriers such as fence lines, windows, and even rooftops.

IP-based cameras allow for practical recording of video around the clock. When a trigger event occurs, such as someone passing a door, the camera can begin recording, then return to a non-recording state when the alert ends. The video stream remains available to a human observer in the control center constantly, but valuable storage space is only used when a record is required. Alternatively, the camera can record a constantly at low resolution and switch automatically to higher resolution frames on alert.

The built-in "intelligence" of the cameras makes it possible for an alert event to activate a response from other cameras and alarms, and to inform the human operator of a breech. This may reduce physical demands on security personnel and prevent fatigue or inattention that can compromise surveillance activities.