There are various alert functions provided by many popular surveillance software. Some of them are SMS alert and email alert. Each has different advantages and disadvantages. In essence, they will help you get informed of all access violations. It can be said that such software can turn your PC into a powerful video surveillance system. It is an affordable and simple way to keep an eye on your property remotely.

Software such as WebCam Looker allows you to set up a message that will be sent to your mobile phone in case the software detects a motion. Just carry your cellphone anywhere you are and you will always get warned in case something happens at home. Another popular webcam security software, Digi-Watcher, can even be configured for dialing a number when a motion is detected.

Moreover, WebCam Looker, for example, offers windows messenger and skype message facilities that can be set up to send you a message whenever the software detects an intrusion. With windows messenger, you use internal Windows net messages service as destination. Choosing skype message as destination means you can send Skype chat messages directly from your PC to another PC. Note that both of the PCs must have Skype installed to make this feature work.

Both the Windows Messenger and Skype are instant messaging programs which are used to perform remote monitoring. Although both of them only send text messages, they enable you to receive a notification immediately whenever a motion is detected. Eventually you can take an appropriate action quickly. Sending out messages in the form of a text will also save your bandwidth.

A home security system will not be complete without the ability to sound an alarm. This feature is also provided by today’s surveillance software. They allow you to play a sound file once it detects a motion and have been already provided with several sound files to choose. For example, WebCam Looker is provided with several sounds of alarm signal in the form of dog barking and a bell.