How To Dispose Of A Computer
Have an old computer lying around? Don’t just throw it away.
Many people find themselves asking ‘how to dispose of computer and how to dispose of computer hard drive?’
The answer is responsibly!
Computers house all sorts of toxins that are bad for the environment and all of us who live in it. Not to mention the personal information—passwords, account numbers, license keys or registration numbers for software programs, addresses and phone numbers, medical and prescription information, tax returns and other personal documents—that you would rather not fall into the wrong hands.
So, what to do?
However, you choose to dispose of your computer, you need to do several things if you don’t want a stranger to access your data.
Save important files
Back up your files or transfer them to a new computer. The least consuming way to do this is to invest in an external hard drive, down load your data and it is ready to go on the new PC.
If you’re looking for easy ongoing backup and file syncing solution, use a cloud service such as Box, Google Drive or Microsoft’s OneDrive. This allows for remote access and can be viewed from most devices
After backing up your files in the cloud, you can easily transfer them to a new machine or access them anywhere you have an Internet connection, even from your smartphone. Cloud storage also comes in handy if your computer dies and you need to restore your files or you’re traveling and need access to data on a different device.
Deauthorise your computer.
Some programs, such as iTunes and Microsoft Office 365, only allow you to install software on a limited number of computers or allow a limited number of computers to access your files. So be sure to deauthorize your old computer with your accounts – before uninstalled your programs
Data Security
The next step is to choose a partner that will ensure data security
Simply deleting files won’t cut it. Even if a file name doesn’t show up on the list of available files the old file data is still there until it is overwritten and a data thieves can use a data recovery program to retrieve it. We’ve outlined the steps we recommend you take below.
Delete and overwrite sensitive files. Concept Management use CESG approved software that overwrites to British Standard Infosec Enhanced Standard 5. Once overwritten, a certificate is produced to prove wiping
Or physically damage your hard drive. If you’re just looking to recycle your computer and are very concerned about someone recovering your files, take the hard drive out and options are crushing, shredding and smelting.
How to dispose of your computer and how to dispose of computer monitors?
To avoid all those toxins ending up in a landfill, the better choice is to recycle, donate, trade-in or sell your computer.
Recycling your computer
If you opt to recycle it, keep in mind that some recyclers will simply take your old machine and ship it over to developing nations where children are often used to scavenge piles of e-waste looking for valuable components. To avoid contributing to this irresponsible practice, use a recycler that is registered with the Environment Agency and they follow high standards. Many of them also will reuse and refurbish electronics.
Disposing Computers Safely
When you’re done with your old laptop, Mac or PC, don’t just throw it in the rubbish. Make sure you recycle it properly, this includes safely removing any personal identifiable data on your computer’s hard drive.
Recycling an old computer is straightforward, however, it’s essential to take some steps to securely remove the data on your computer.
Computers house all sorts of toxins that are bad for the environment and all of us who live in it. Not to mention the personal information—passwords, account numbers, license keys or registration numbers for software programs, addresses and phone numbers, medical and prescription information, tax returns and other personal documents—that you would rather not fall into the wrong hands.
Concept Management will collect your old computing equipment free of charge from your organisation. We will overwrite and wipe your data securely or physically destroy your hard drives, free of charge and disposes of them in an environmentally responsible manner.
Contact us today
Why not get in touch with one of our professionals today and we can assist you with the safe disposal of your computers, laptops, and equipment. Give us a call today on 01204 363184 or email us your queries to justask@conceptmanagement.co.uk.