The adage “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder” has a certain ring of truth to it. It is undeniable that some items are technologically outdated, such as VHS tapes or CRT screens (although they still retain value for some hobbyists). However, when it comes to DC hardware, the distinction is more nuanced than what we instinctively believe.
As Data Center knowledge rightly puts it: “In many senses, “outdated” is a state of mind more than a tangible reality.”
This holds even more accurate than ten years ago: As we previously discussed, Moore’s law(article link) is coming to an end, which means that you’ll not need to update hardware as much as you used to. (Microsoft even increased their global lifespan of servers from 4 to 6 years last year.) When you do need to upgrade it, chances are it will still be valuable, either for yourself or for other companies with more modest computing needs. What more could we ask for to improve your ROI while contributing to a more sustainable future? Let’s explore the possibilities!
Assessing the value of your outdated hardware
Before making any decisions, it’s crucial to assess the value of your outdated hardware. As we mentioned earlier, while it may no longer meet your current needs, it can still be useful in various ways. You’ll need to evaluate the condition, performance, and potential lifespan of each component.This assessment will help you determine the best course of action going forward.
Since it has been our area of expertise for close to two decades now, don’t hesitate to give us a call if you need assistance, but here are a few starting tips:
Inventory your equipment: Create a detailed list of all hardware, including servers, storage devices, networking equipment, and peripherals. Note their specifications, age, and condition.
- Performance evaluation: Test each piece of equipment to determine its operational status and performance levels.
- Market research: Research the current market value of similar used equipment to gauge potential resale value.
Repurpose: give your hardware a second life
One of the most sustainable options is to repurpose your outdated hardware. Many components can be reconfigured to serve different functions within your organization. Here are a few ideas:
1. Backup servers
Repurposing old servers as backup systems can provide an additional layer of data protection. This ensures that your primary servers can operate efficiently while the repurposed hardware handles your backups.
2. Development and testing environments
Outdated servers can be ideal for setting up development and testing environments that allow your IT team to experiment and innovate without impacting your production systems.
3. Training labs
Use old hardware to create training labs for your IT staff, which provides a hands-on learning environment without the risk of disrupting your primary operations.
Sell: turn your obsolete hardware into cash
If repurposing isn’t an option, selling your outdated hardware is an alternative. There is a robust market for used IT equipment, and your old servers, storage devices, and networking equipment can still fetch a good price. Here’s how to get started:
1. Determine market value
Research the current market value of your equipment, which will give you a realistic expectation of what you can earn. Factors such as brand, model, condition, and demand will influence the price.
2. Find the right buyers
Identify potential buyers, which could include other businesses, IT resellers, or individuals looking for affordable hardware. Platforms like eBay, specialized IT marketplaces, and professional networks can be great places to start.
3. Prepare for sale
Ensure your hardware is in good working condition and free from sensitive data. Clean and test each component to make it more appealing to buyers.
Our Buyback as a Service (BBaaS) program includes all of those services: we take care of the entire ITAD process, including certified data erasure, consolidation, packaging, and decommissioning in more than 110 countries.
Recycle: responsible disposal of e-waste
When hardware is beyond repurposing or selling, recycling is the most environmentally friendly option. E-waste is constantly growing (a record 62 million tons of e-waste was produced in 2022, up 82% from 2010 and on track to rise another 32% by 2030). It can have severe environmental and health impacts if not disposed of properly. Here’s what you can do:
1. Choose certified recyclers
Work with certified e-waste recyclers who follow strict guidelines for handling electronic waste, which ensures that hazardous materials are managed safely and valuable components are recovered responsibly.
2. Data destruction
Ensure that all data is securely erased(HDD destruction article link) from your hardware before recycling. This protects your business from potential data breaches and complies with privacy regulations.
3. Documentation
Obtain proper documentation from the recycler confirming that your hardware was disposed of responsibly. This can be important for compliance and corporate social responsibility reporting.
At Ynvolve, we don’t recycle ourselves, but we partner with WEEE-certified recyclers worldwide to provide you with a seamless and responsible recycling solution. We can also help with data destruction and provide the necessary documentation for your records.
Donate: support a good cause
If you’re looking for a way to give back, consider donating your outdated hardware. Many schools, non-profits, and community organizations can benefit from IT equipment that you no longer need. Here’s how to proceed:
1. Identify recipients
Reach out to local schools, charities, or non-profits to see if they need IT equipment. Many organizations have limited budgets and would greatly appreciate your donation.
2. Prepare the equipment
Ensure that the hardware is in working condition and free from sensitive data. Providing a brief user guide can also be helpful for the recipients.
3. Coordinate logistics
Arrange for the transportation of the donated equipment. Some organizations may be able to pick up the hardware, while others require you to handle the delivery.
At Ynvolve, we can assist you in identifying potential recipients and preparing your hardware for donation. We support our communities and can help you make a meaningful impact.
In conclusion, managing outdated data center hardware can be a manageable task. With a bit of creativity and some strategic planning, you can find numerous ways to give your equipment a new lease on life. Whether repurposing it within your organization, selling it to recoup some costs, recycling it responsibly, or donating it to those in need, there are plenty of options to explore.
Remember, what might seem like obsolete technology to you can still hold significant value elsewhere. By taking a thoughtful approach, you can not only maximize your return on investment but also contribute to a more sustainable and socially responsible future.
We are always here to help you navigate these options and make the best decision for your business and the environment. So, before you decide to discard that old server or storage device, consider the many possibilities and give your hardware a second or third chance to make an impact.
