This software detects, identifies, classifies and tracks objects in real-time. The software then generates alerts or sounds an alarm when user-defined security rules are violated. A patented software product, it works out-of-the-box within any existing video infrastructure. Ability to distinguish between potentially threatening activities and irrelevant events--trees blowing in the wind, waves crashing on the shore--means that ObjectVideo VEW performs well even in outdoor environments. In addition, alerts are broadcast via e-mail, cell phones, PDA or to an alert console to designated individuals and groups when predefined security rules are violated or potential threats are occurring.