As technology advances, more and more security surveillance tasks are being converted from analog closed circuit television (CCTV) systems to wireless, digital, IP-based video surveillance. The advantages of wireless IP-based surveillance are enumerated and include real-time visual data, image clarity, and the ability to incorporate smart video technology. This smart video technology, or “intelligent video,” automates video monitoring by analyzing different types of trends and patterns in human behavior. The author notes that one problem with transmitting high-quality video data is limited network bandwidth. Researchers at the University of Maryland may have a solution in high-performance wireless links that use both lasers and radio frequencies. The author also discusses the controversies surrounding the use of video surveillance in public places. First amendment and privacy rights are listed among the arguments against the use of public surveillance technology, as is the potential for the technology to be used for political, business, or personal gain. Despite these arguments, it is likely that video surveillance technology will only advance, restricted only by a lack of resources to purchase and use the technology.