Computer disposal is a concept most people don’t think about when they’re in the market of purchasing a new laptop, but it’s incredibly crucial to safely and adequately get rid of your important files to ensure strangers don’t hack and use your information. Computers contain all sorts of toxins that are extremely bad for the environment, and all your important information is stored such as, passwords, account numbers, license keys or registration numbers that could fall into the wrong hands.
What’s The Best Way For Computer Recycling?
When you do computer disposal deleting files simply won’t cut it, even if a file name doesn’t show up on the list of available files. Old file data is still there until it is overwritten, and anyone can use a data program to retrieve it:
1. Delete and overwrite sensitive files: Deleting certain sensitive files like tax documents that make sure you delete these files with specialized software designed to meet government standards for delete deletion for some.
2. Turn on drive encryption for Windows Pcs with SSD drives go to Settings > About. Toward the bottom, you’ll see either an option for Drive Encryption or Bitblocker Settings. Follow the allowed prompt to encrypt your drive; MACs required a complete system change and selected a password and restart.
3. Deauthorize your computer: Some programs such as iTunes and Microsoft office 365 only allow you to install software on a limited number of computers to allow a limited number of computers to access your files. But sure, to deauthorize your old computer with your accounts before uninstalling all your programs.
4. Delete your browsing history: Most browsers save information about your browsing history, which stores all your user name and passwords to various sites. Someone may compromise your information for monetary purposes—make sure to choose the safe option on your computer and ‘Delete browsing history’ and check all boxes to make sure everything gets removed.
5. Uninstall all programs: If you’re thinking about computer disposal make sure to follow the electronic disposal requirements carefully. Programs such as Microsoft Office contains personal information, like name, address and other details that you sure double-check before disposing of your computer.
6. Consult your employer about data disposal policies: If it is computer disposal for businesses make sure to check with your employer about how to manage business-related information on your computer—the law requires a business to closely follow data security and disposal requirements for certain information.
7. Wipe your hard drive: Once you’ve carefully gone through and removed all the important data on the site, make sure to perform a factory reset before computer disposal to ensure you’ve removed all personal files and software programs. If your computer has a hard drive, restart the computer, download and install, Eraser to effectively clear your computer.
How Do I Dispose of My Old Computer?
Electronic recycling is many options for many people because many computers manufacture has programs available to recycle computers and components. Be sure to check their websites or contact their toll-free number with more information. If you have concerns about recycling, donating is an alternative option—many organizations take computer disposal and donate them to charities. You can also choose to resell your computer if it’s still in good condition or not outdated, but never does a computer belong in a landfill. Computers contain hazardous materials that could potentially contaminate the earth. Most people don’t typically think before they choose to get rid of their computer, compromising their information. It’s imperative to make extra copies of your files on an external hard drive or a new computer and smash your hard drive before recycling it. Although most people choose to use a hammer on their hard drive it could be a waste of available hardware, but make sure to follow these precautions when destroying your hard drive and use electronics disposal:
a. Disconnect all power sources from the computer
Use the instruction manual if needed to find the computer’s hard drive
b. Remove the hard drive from the computer
Remove any steel shielding material or brackets
c. Ensure the hard drive is not connected to a power supply
Wear safety gear
d. Place the drive on a surface that won’t be damaged