Symantec has used the Demo 09 conference in California to preview a new web-based service that lets technology experts work as problem fixers for friends and family without having to travel to their physical location.

Project Guru is secure and scalable, according to the firm, and allows for remote connection to a computer as a means of solving problems.

Symantec already offers tech support through its NortonLive PC help services, but expects Guru to be used as a complementary alternative.

"While there are many services available to consumers for technical support, many tech-savvy individuals still find themselves as the de facto support resource for friends and family," said Brian Hernacki, an architect at Symantec Research Labs.

"Our goal with Project Guru is to provide tech-savvy users with a convenient and secure online tool from a trusted source to help their friends and family efficiently and effectively."

'Gurus' must register on the site before inviting their friends to join in a social circle. If invitations are accepted, both parties are granted access to remote connections and a number of online security tools, including diagnosis and monitoring software.

Project Guru is currently being tested by a number of partner firms, according to Symantec, and is slated for release later this year.