If your computer, laptop or Mac has come to the end of its life, what should you do with the drive that contains your data? Throw in the skips, give to charity or ask a friend?
Deleting the files alone isn’t secure. Removing the hard drive or SSD is always the safest option, which then allows you to recycle your hardware. The hard drive or SSD can then be securely shredded, protecting your data and identity. QLine IT offers this service from just £7.50 per drive.
As a registered E-waste carrier with the Environmental Agency, QLine IT can advise and assist on the disposal of your hardware, and in particular, secure hard drive removal. Ensuring that not only is your old computer correctly disposed of, but most importantly, your hard drive that contains all your personal data, pictures and financial history, is securely destroyed. Below are some options.
Give to Charity or Schools
QLine IT is often asked on the procedure when donating a laptop, computer or Mac to a charity. Whilst this is a very generous gesture, it does come with considerations.
Many organisations will not accept electrical goods
Is the device out of date, hence you are replacing it?
What do you do about the hard drive as it has your data on it?
Due to the nature of computers, all hard drives contain your personal data. There are software options to delete your data however, to do this you have to wipe the drive.
The operating system must be then installed. Is this a job you could do, or would you need a professional? Or is it cheaper to install a new drive?
If the computer is in good condition, and has a good specification, then it can be worth replacing the hard drive and installing a fresh copy of your operating system. QLine IT provide a discounted price for any computers being donated to a charity or school.
Give your hardware to a Friend
QLine IT is often asked on the best procedure giving your hardware to a friend. Whilst this is a very generous gesture, it does come with considerations.
Why are you replacing the device?
Is it slow or unreliable?
What about your data?
Have you considered that all that your laptop or PC may need, is just a good old fashioned clean-up? Often taking less than an hour, QLine IT can restore your PC or laptop’s performance, check for security issues, updates and much more.
Send your computer for recycling
The most common option when upgrading your computer is to simply dispose of it. In times gone by, these outdated desktops and laptops were sent to landfill with no thought given to the personal data on the hard drive. Thankfully, we are a lot eco-friendlier and security conscious.
For a small fee QLine IT can remove your hard drive, and the hardware can be sent to IT recyclers who utilise the metals in your computer. The hard drive can either be retained by you or can be securely shredded.
Other hardware such as printers, monitors, keyboards and mice can also be disposed of in the same environmentally friendly way. Just ask for the QLine IT e-waste disposal service.
