Once new software or hardware is released, users are expected to upgrade to the latest version. The consequences of not updating can include security gaps and slow services, which most people cannot cope with.
Even if you love your old computer, because you are used to it, sooner or later you will be forced to change it for a better and faster model. It may take time, but it will happen. When this happens, you’ll need to sell your old computer for parts, donate it, or recycle it.
For those who have chosen to recycle computers, you are doing your part to preserve the planet. Here you will learn everything you need to do before recycling your computer.
Despite having an external storage device, most people still keep files and media on their computers. Therefore, before disposing of a computer, it is important to delete and back up any files that may have been stored on the computer.
Backup involves sending files to other storage locations or devices to avoid losing them. Backups can be done in three ways. A person can make a backup by transferring all the files from the old computer to a new computer. The second option is to transfer the files to an external storage device. The third option is to save the files in the cloud. The individual can choose to use all three ways to be thorough.
Once you have completed the backup process, proceed to sign out of all accounts. For example, if a person is permanently logged into his G-mail or Facebook account on his computer, he should log out of these accounts before getting rid of them. This is to prevent anyone from accessing the accounts once the computer has been disposed of.
Usually, after the first connection with an external wireless device, the computer will most likely automatically connect to the device for further use. Disposing of your laptop without making sure to unplug these devices can lead to a security breach. This is because your passwords and other security protocols may be compromised.
Therefore, before you get rid of the computer, you should make sure that all these devices have been disconnected from the computer and can no longer connect automatically.
After the first three steps have been done, the next step is to make sure that the computer is completely erased. All documents that have already been backed up and documents that are considered unimportant should be permanently deleted. An easy way to do this is to restore factory settings. Restoring to factory settings returned the computer to the state it was purchased in.
It is always better to restore factory settings instead of deleting the files. This is because a person might miss out on deleting some hidden files that need to be removed. Alternatively, you can combine both options.
This last stage is where the computer is scrapped. If the computer is in good condition, the owner can resell it to earn some money. Even if the computer has some flaws but is still usable, it can be sold but at a low price. There are several e-commerce websites that the owner can use to advertise and sell the computer without any hassle. The owner may even find a buyer among close friends, relatives and colleagues.
The other option is to donate the computer to organizations that need it. There are some NGOs that accept donations of computers to be able to give them to the less privileged. The laptop owner may decide to donate to such an organization, thus contributing to a good cause.
Finally, you can consider recycling, which is one of the most affordable computer disposal options, according to Janvi Panthri, an IT expert writer and editor. As much as it may seem like a piece of junk to you, your old computer could be brought back to life by refurbishing or repurposing certain parts to breathe new life into old technology.
For this recycling option, the owner will need to contact computer manufacturers or electronics stores with recycling programs. Some of these stores also have donation programs, so it’s up to the computer owner. Also, you can sell your computer for parts.
The most important thing to keep in mind is that a computer should not be thrown away simply because the owner no longer needs it. This type of disposal is inappropriate and unsafe for the environment.
The steps listed above are the recommended way to dispose of an old computer.
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Categories: Technology
Source: SCHOOL TRANG DAI
