Buzz
Whether you're upgrading your computer, dealing with a completely broken laptop, or simply dusting off an old one in your closet, there will come a time when you need to properly dispose of or repurpose your device. If this laptop has served you for a while, you might want to keep some important data from the hard drive or, at the very least, ensure it doesn't end up in someone else's hands. By wiping the hard drive and following some safe disposal methods, you can rest easy about this issue.
Steps
Delete Data and Files
Back up all important data. All data on the hard drive will be permanently lost when the laptop is disposed of, unless you back it up. Set aside an hour or two to thoroughly check the laptop for any files you may need to save. Here are a few ways to back up your data:
- Purchase an external hard drive to copy your files. This device connects via USB to your laptop, allowing you to transfer all the data you want to keep. If you're upgrading to a new laptop, simply plug in the external drive and copy your files over.
- Use an online storage service like Google Drive, iCloud, or Dropbox. These services offer ample cloud storage, letting you save most of your important files. However, if you have a lot of data to back up, you may need to pay for additional storage.
Revoke licenses for all registered programs. Many programs are limited to a specific number of computers with a single license. Make sure to revoke the license for these programs on your old laptop, such as Microsoft Office, iTunes, Adobe Creative Suite, and similar options.
- To revoke a computer's license on iTunes, go to the 'Account' menu at the top and select 'Deauthorize This Computer.'
- For Adobe products, you can revoke the license by selecting 'Help,' 'Deactivate,' and then 'Deactivate Permanently.'
- Different programs have different methods of revocation. If you're unsure how to revoke a particular program, it's best to look up instructions online.
Delete important files. Better safe than sorry—although the hard drive will be wiped clean, don't underestimate the importance of deleting sensitive files like bank statements, tax documents, or private photos. Instead of just sending these files to the trash, use a program to permanently erase them.
- On Windows, programs like CCleaner, Eraser, or File Shredder can help you securely delete these files.
- Mac computers come with this feature built-in. After placing the files you wish to delete into the trash, hold down the Command key and click the trash icon. Select 'Empty Trash Securely' to permanently remove the files from the trash.
Clear browser history. If you've been using the same browser for a while, it may contain a lot of personal data, passwords, and even banking information. Make sure to erase all this data before parting ways with your laptop. Here's how to do it on various browsers:
- For Safari, click on the 'Safari' tab in the upper-left corner and choose 'Clear History.' Ensure 'All History' is selected, and then click 'Clear History' at the bottom of the window.
- For Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Microsoft Edge, and Mozilla Firefox, you can clear browsing history by pressing Ctrl+Shift+Del. Make sure all checkboxes and timeframes are selected, and then hit 'Delete' at the bottom to erase the browsing data.
Uninstall all programs. Just like web browsers, many programs also store personal data so that you don't have to re-enter the same information. Go through your list of programs and either uninstall the ones containing personal information or remove all programs entirely for security purposes.
- Programs like Microsoft Word or Excel may store your full name and address, information you'd rather not leave behind for the next owner of the laptop.
- If the computer has software installed for transactions (e.g., Steam), credit card details might have been saved.
Reinstall the computer and format the hard drive. After backing up necessary files and removing anything confidential, proceed to restore the system to its factory settings to wipe the hard drive completely. This process can be a bit tricky, so make sure you know what you're doing before proceeding.
Remove or destroy the hard drive if you can't use your computer. If the reason for disposing of the laptop is that it won't start, it can be difficult to know what's on the hard drive. In such cases, you should completely remove the hard drive from the laptop. Here’s how to do it on different computers:
- Older laptops may have easily removable hard drives by sliding them out from a port on the side. You might need to flip a switch, but afterward, you can simply grasp the hard drive and pull it out of the computer.
- The hard drive might also be installed under a plastic panel on the bottom of the laptop. Look for a long plastic piece (usually secured with screws) on the side when you open the laptop. Once found, unscrew the plastic panel or the hard drive (if there is one) to remove the hard drive.
- If you can't figure out how to remove the hard drive, check the manufacturer's manual or look for advice online regarding your specific laptop model.
- If you wish to keep the files on the hard drive, store the drive in an anti-static bag. The data may be recoverable if you take this bag to a local computer repair center.
- If you don’t need any data from the hard drive, you can destroy it by using an electric drill to make holes in various spots on the component. Then, dispose of it with the rest of the laptop.
Disposing of an old laptop
Sell the laptop. Whether your laptop is slow or seemingly broken, there are still people out there who would want to buy it. List the laptop for sale online or in your local area, detailing all known issues and technical specifications.
- Some individuals might purchase old laptops for their parts. They are not concerned if the laptop no longer functions as long as the device remains in good physical condition.
Trade your laptop for cash or gift cards. Many electronics stores and laptop companies have programs that allow you to exchange old tech for a small payment. You can search online or inquire at local electronics stores to see if they offer such programs, which can help you estimate the value they would offer for your old laptop.
- Best Buy, Apple, and Amazon all have trade-in programs available in the U.S.
- You should compare the value and payment methods between different programs to choose the best deal for your old laptop.
Spike Baron
Network Engineer & Desktop Support
Network Engineer & Desktop Support
Our experts suggest: Locations like Best Buy and Staples frequently hold an event once a month where users can trade in their old electronics. These items are then either recycled or processed. Additionally, some major cities have recycling centers that handle electronic waste.
Donate your old laptop. If your laptop is still in working condition, consider giving it to a family member or someone in need. You can research local charitable organizations that accept laptop donations and give yours to a worthy cause.
- The National Cristina Foundation and World Computer Exchange are two such charities that accept electronic devices.
Take your laptop to an electronic waste recycling center. Many electronic devices, including laptops, contain hazardous materials like lead, mercury, or cadmium. Therefore, it's best to dispose of them in a designated safe location that handles electronic waste. There are numerous recycling plants around the world, and you can easily find the nearest ones online.
- Some recycling centers may require you to drop off your electronics in a specific area or even offer pick-up services. Do a quick search online to find the most convenient option for you.
Disposal should be the last resort. If there are no other options for safely handling your laptop, you may dispose of it with regular trash. However, be cautious as this method could harm the environment, and it should only be considered as a final solution.
- Many U.S. states have laws that require electronic waste to be safely processed through recycling. Make sure you're not breaking any regulations by discarding your laptop.
Warning
- Always wear safety gloves when drilling electronic devices, as small and sharp fragments may fly out during the process.
