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Big-box retailer Best Buy’s Geek Squad team of technology specialists and network operator Verizon have teamed up to offer IT Help Desk, designed by Verizon to help small and midsize businesses (SMBs) that do not have the means to support in-house staffing resources. The offering adds Geek Squad support to Verizon’s IT platforms such as mobility and security.
Geek Squad Agents can be engaged for services, such as wireless connectivity, virus definition updates, malware removal and software updates, and all Help Desk levels of service include 24/7 phone and online support.
“Customers are searching for support solutions that provide a consistent level of service and flexibility,” Rob Brothers, program director, software and hardware support services at IT research firm IDC, said in a press statement. “Verizon’s services, with their Best Buy alliance, create a compelling offer to the SMB.”
Advanced support includes services for mobilizing a workforce with tablets and smartphones, as well as virtual private network connectivity and support. The highest level of support available, Premium, includes device monitoring and system maintenance in addition to application maintenance. If an issue cannot be resolved by phone or online assistance, on-site dispatch is also available.
“Technology innovation continues to unlock value and create revenue opportunities for small and medium businesses, which are the lifeblood of the U.S. economy,” Janet Schijns, vice president of vertical solutions and channels for Verizon Enterprise Solutions, said in prepared remarks. “Our new offering allows business owners to tap into today’s sophisticated wireless and advanced technologies with the peace of mind that trusted tech support is readily available anytime the need arises.”
The service is available for purchase nationwide, according to a joint press release from the two companies. In addition, Verizon offers IT administrative support to businesses for their day-to-day IT operations such as managing user rights and access; remote monitoring of routers, switches and firewalls; server management and monitoring; and most up-to-date security protection.
“The relationship we’ve established with Verizon is a good example of how Geek Squad is taking things deeper with customers, and finding new ways to reach them,” George Sherman, senior vice president of Best Buy Services, said in a prepared statement. “Verizon will use Geek Squad’s expanding remote support capability along with our other support channels to ensure that customers receive trusted IT guidance whenever and wherever they need it.”