geek squad snow storm

Generally speaking, VARs and MSPs that have remote monitoring and management (RMM) software coupled with Intel vPro technology are in good shape. The RMM software allows IT service providers to remotely troubleshoot customers’ PCs, servers and network infrastructure. Intel vPro, which comes standard with most PCs these days, allows IT service providers to remotely wake up and troubleshoot PCs. Also, cloud backup and business continuity specialists have been taking steps to assist channel partners. For instance, Intronis has doubled its weekend support staff to assist VARs and MSPs.

Meanwhile, truck rolls and on-site customer IT support services won’t likely occur on Saturday, Feb. 9. As of 10:40 a.m. eastern, roads on Long Island are closed, and New York, Rhode, Connecticut and Massachusetts  have declared states of emergency. As of right now the blizzard continues in New England.

The VAR Guy suspects even Best Buy‘s (NYSE: BBY) Geek Squad is snowed in, though the retail giant’s managed services business — called mindSHIFT — is well-positioned to support customers remotely.

Top IT service providers were not in panic mode ahead of the storm. MJ Shoer, president of Jenaly Technology Group, told MSPmentor that two feet of snow isn’t a dramatic event in his region (New Hampshire). Jenaly sent customers a storm alart preparation reminder on February 9 ahead of the storm. Webistix took similar measures.

As for The VAR Guy and his team — many of whom are scattered across New England — the power is on and the blogging continue.

Disclosure: The photo may not necessarily depict events from the current snow storm. But it was too classic an image to pass up.