Updated September 2011
Old computers — Migrating, retiring and data wiping…
The three principles to follow when migrating or retiring a computer are:
–Migrate the stuff you want to keep (users and data) to a shared drive or even just an external drive.
–Remove (aka “wipe”) all data from hard drives, even if you are going to keep the drives around as replacement drives
–Recycle old equipment. DON’T just throw it in the trash!
I have way too many old, small hard drives around my office. Before I can get rid of them I need to make sure there is no data on them. Which made me think that I ought to remind you folks to be sure to “wipe” your hard drives before you recycle, sell, give away or otherwise dispose of your computers.
If the drive still works and is in a computer that someone can use, get everything off the drive with CCleaner, or something similar:
If you have drives that are not inside computers, you can the USB tool on this page. Connect the drive to a computer that has CCleaner on it…but be VERY sure you are erasing the right drive!!
Here are 10 useful and fun things to do with old computers (from Makeuseof.com)
Recycling
Computer manufacturers are responsible for recycling their equipment, thanks to a 2008 state law. Texas Commission on Environmental Quality maintains a list of manufacturers at TexasRecyclesComputers.org.
If you are in the Austin area, or are willing to bring your things to Austin, check out the city’s Solid Waste Services webpage for locations of electronic recyclers. Note that Best Buy is on this list. They have many drop-off spots for recycling outside the Austin area.