When you update your business’s technology, you’ll need to dispose of your old machines, such as laptops or desktop computers. However, it’s essential to dispose of your old equipment properly to prevent your business’s information from falling into the wrong hands. Read below to learn the dos and don’ts of computer disposal for businesses.
Do: Erase the Hard Drives
Before you dispose of your old computers, you need to erase the hard drives. There are many machines you can use to erase information safely, such as a degausser. One of the functions of a degausser machine is to erase data completely from a hard drive by altering its magnetic field.
Don’t: Assume One Reset Erases All Data
Too often, businesses will perform a computer reset and assume that that erases all data from a device. Unfortunately, one computer reset usually does not erase all the data from the hard drive. To ensure that your business’s information remains safe and secure, you’ll need to erase all information from your computers’ hard drives.
Do: Recycle Old Computers
Many businesses choose to recycle their old smartphones, laptops, and computers. Since manufacturers can reuse the components within your old computers, you’ll find many recycling companies that will accept old equipment. When you choose a recycling company, make sure that you find a reliable and reputable establishment that can dispose of your computers properly.
Don’t: Throw Your Computers Away
Businesses should never throw their old computers away. Tossing your computers in the trash is detrimental to the environment and can potentially release your business’s information into the wrong hands. Instead of throwing your computers away, recycle them to protect the environment and your business’s electronic security.
These are a few of the dos and don’ts of computer disposal for businesses. To summarize, you should erase hard drives and recycle computers, but you should not assume that one computer reset erases all data or throw your computers away. Now that you have this information, you’re all set to dispose of your old computers safely and efficiently.
