So a customer of mine that I helped consolidate some backup & AV solutions using Symantec.Cloud got this notice a few minutes ago:
"First and foremost, we would like to thank you for your business.
We have an important update to share with you regarding Backup Exec.cloud. After careful consideration and review, we have decided to begin the process of discontinuing this service.
We are notifying you now in an effort to minimize the impact of this decision on your business operations. The timing of the Backup Exec.cloud service discontinuation is designed to allow you to make full use of your existing service term. However, if your pre-paid service term extends beyond January 6 2015, you are eligible for a pro-rated refund. More information will be provided later on refund mechanisms for any prepaid service period falling after the discontinuation date.
For the avoidance of doubt, this is applicable ONLY to the Backup Exec.cloud Services that you ordered from Symantec. All other Symantec cloud services ordered under your applicable services agreement remain in full force and effect.
Please make note of the following key dates:
January 6, 2014: You will no longer be able to purchase a new or renewal Backup Exec.cloud subscription.
January 6, 2015: You will no longer be able to access or use Backup Exec.cloud and Technical Support will no longer be available.
You will have access to the service until the end of service availability on January 6, 2015 or the end of your current annual service period? whichever comes first. To determine your current service term, please click on the Home tab in the Management Console and then locate your Subscription Detail information.
Our team is committed to providing you with Technical Support throughout this process. Please see the end of this message for contact information.
This decision does not impact our commitment to Symantec Endpoint Protection.cloud, Symantec Endpoint Protection Small Business Edition 2013 or on-premise Backup Exec and NetBackup software.
Need more information? We encourage you to download this Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document, which includes important information on your migration options.
Our goal is to do everything we can to help you minimize any disruption to your business caused by this announcement. Please contact us at the Technical Support numbers listed below with any questions or if we can do anything to help.
Sincerely,
The Symantec Team
Global Technical Support
Via email: support.cloud@symantec.com
Via telephone:
US/Canada: +1 (866) 807 6047
EMEA: +44 (0) 870 850 3014
Australia: 1 (800) 088099
Hong Kong: 1 (800) 901220
Asia Pacific: +852 6902 1130"
So, my customer is now in a panic, and really this is a HUGE disappointment for me. I would really like to hear from some other Cloud Backup vendors now and ask if Symantec is also going to do this with the Antivirus portion of the service too.
You know, I had some faith in the hosted platform and have been pleased with it thus far but now I've got some serious doubts.