New AT&T virtual help desk targets small businesses

AT&T Inc. has created a round-the-clock technology help desk targeting small businesses.

The Dallas-based communications giant says for an initial setup cost of $89 and a monthly fee starting at $19 per computer, AT&T Tech Support 360 will provide live, technical service for setup, configuration and troubleshooting for equipment ranging from laptops to routers and BlackBerrys.

AT&T (NYSE: T) tech support professionals will be available via a phone or online and will remotely connect to and access customers’ computers for diagnosis and troubleshooting.

“This innovative service provides customers with a virtual IT director to help them avoid the costs of bringing technicians in-house or wasting time trying to fix problems themselves,” says Roman Pacewicz, senior vice president, AT&T Regional Business Marketing.

The service plans will be sold both as one-time services and as yearly subscription plans.