Symantec has expanded its NortonLive online help services to include computer peripheral and network-related problems.
NortonLive Ultimate Helpdesk is a new subscription remote tech support service for Windows PCs that also includes support for network and select peripheral problems. Assistance is available 24 / 7 / 365 from "only U.S. and Canadian-based NortonLive Experts".
Services include diagnosis and resolution of Windows PC (XP, Vista and 7 only) setup, security, performance and maintenance problems. Also included are installation or set-up of a printer, scanner, smart phone, "MP3 player (including iPods)" or digital camera plus setup help for syncing your PC and smartphone.
Network-related help is also offered, covering installation and configuration of a wireless network (w/ security) and setup / troubleshooting of file and print sharing.
Every subscription requires a one-time setup service (and fee) that includes a security assessment, PC performance tuning and installation of NortonLive Easy Support software, which provides ongoing automatic computer "health checks, fixes, tune-ups and optimizations".
NortonLive Ultimate Help Desk is available immediately via two subscription plans. The Personal Plan for one PC is $19.99 / month or $199.99 / year, with a one time setup fee of $49.99. The Family Plan covers three PCs for $29.99 / month, $299.99 / year plus the $69.99 setup fee.
Norton also offers NortonLive Rescue Me, which sounds like more of a gateway to other NortonLive services. For $4.99, Norton folks will remote into your Windows system, run their "latest and greatest diagnostic tools" and "go over the report with you". Actually fixing the problem will probably cost you extra, which will be revealed in the "phone consultation with a NortonLive Expert to discuss best solutions".
Rescue Me also includes a "quick tune up of key system settings", which according to the Rescue Me FAQ, includes "include removing unneeded files and operating system functions" and "adjusting settings to improve data processing and web surfing speeds".