Ready To Ditch An Old PC? What To Know First
If you have an old computer that you don't use anymore and it isn't worth any money, there are a lot of things that you'll want to do before you get rid of it. Before you get rid of the computer, you want to make sure that none of your personal information is in jeopardy, and you want to dispose of the computer responsibly so it doesn't harm the environment in any way. Do these things, and then you'll be ready.
Delete Everything or Have it Cleaned
You want to delete all files, pictures, documents, and information off your computer. If you aren't sure how to do this effectively on your own, you may want to go and have the computer cleared off professionally. They will take everything off the hard drive so you don't have to worry about it becoming a problem again.
Log Out of Accounts
While you were on the Internet, you may have had settings activated so you were automatically logged into banking accounts, email accounts, and more. Make sure you log out of all these accounts on that computer before you do anything with it so someone who could get into the computer wouldn't still have access to any of your accounts.
Restore to Factory Settings
If you have all the recovery disks or if you can do a system restore, choose the factory settings. Don't restore the computer to a different time when your personal information and files were still on it because then it will reverse everything that you've done to clear the computer of your information.
Recycle the PC
You'll want to take the PC to a PC recycling center. There are recyclable components in the computer, from the precious metals to the plastic parts. The recycling center will take it apart and make sure that all the fluids and non-recyclable items are disposed of properly.
There are so many different things that could be on your computer that could help someone steal your identity, open accounts in your name, or end up with information you don't want them to have. Instead of just dumping the computer in the trash and hoping for the best, make sure that you wipe the information off the computer and you get it to a great recycling center that can use all the parts and fluids. Recycling will also keep all of those toxins out of the earth.
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