Another Cloud Service Shuts Down

Symantec rivals are clamoring to get hold of the security provider’s Backup Exec.cloud customers.

Companies including Asigra, Carbonite, Zetta.net, Axcient, AVG Technologies and others all are issuing offers to lure Symantec resellers and their customers.

According to reports, Symantec recently informed its partners that it’s shutting down Backup Exec.cloud, a subscription service that let SMBs store backups in Symantec’s cloud or in a hybrid manner. Problem was, according to an internal Symantec memo obtained The Register, Backup Exec.cloud didn’t have synch and share, or mobile access all features that end users are demanding.

Instead, Symantec wrote in the memo, the company will "focus on more productive and feature-rich cloud-based applications which include this type of functionality." It also said it will continue investing in its core backup and recovery products, including the on-premise version of backup Exec and NetBackup software.

The shutdown is reminiscent of Nirvanix’s, although this one appears to have been given more forethought and resellers more warning. Symantec is turning off Backup Exec.cloud as of Jan. 6, whereas Nirvanix gave its partners and customers just a couple of weeks’ notice.

Symantec’s decision to close Backup Exec.cloud also seems to be part of a bigger picture. Whereas Nirvanix closed entirely as a company, Symantec remains and is in the midst of changes. Its new CEO Steve Bennett came in last year and since has enforced significant restructuring and layoffs. Under his purview, Symantec also has rearranged its channel organization and said in an announcement this week it’s more dedicated to resellers and distributors "than ever before." Channel Partners is awaiting more details from the channel chief.