With the current pandemic creating increases in telecommuting and online learning, Verizon’s said they are preparing for an influx in usage, including that of first responders and those protecting the public. In a statement issued yesterday, the company said it has not seen a measurable increase in data usage due to the virus yet despite some businesses, schools and other organizations now asking employees to work remotely and students to take classes online. Verizon stated it has been closely monitoring network usage in the most impacted areas. The company said it will work with and prioritize network demand in assisting the needs of many U.S. hospitals, first responders and government agencies.
“Verizon operates its networks every day as though it’s a snow day—events when millions of Americans work from home while family members go online to watch videos, play games and talk and text to their friends and families,” said Kyle Malady, Verizon’s chief technology officer. “Delivering reliable networks is what we do. While this is an unprecedented situation, we know things are changing, and we are ready to adjust network resources as we better understand any shifts in demand. We have the best engineers in the world monitoring the situation closely.”
“Our customers—including critical government and public safety agencies—rely on us for proven reliability,” said Hans Vestberg, Verizon Chairman and CEO. “I want to thank our dedicated Verizon employees who continue to work tirelessly, day in and day out, to ensure our essential communications services are available to our customers so they can stay connected where and when they need it most.”
Vestberg encouraged business and government customers, in particular, to review their continuity plans. Proper planning can help mitigate impact and help minimize potential business disruptions.
The company listed five strategies businesses should consider:
- Prepare your networks for a remote workforce
- Implement technology that enables remote collaboration
- Prioritize and develop a critical infrastructure plan
- Use tools to give customers confidence and access
- Secure both physical and network access points
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