To dispose of old servers securely: inventory the hardware and storage, migrate the data you need, destroy the drives by NIST 800-88 wiping or physical destruction, hand the servers to a licensed recycler, get a destruction and recycling certificate, then update your asset register.
The steps
- Inventory: record every server and storage unit with serial numbers.
- Backup: make sure the data you need is migrated before any destruction.
- Data destruction: secure wiping for reusable devices or physical destruction for sensitive drives — possible at your premises.
- Licensed handover: to a WMRA-licensed recycler, with safe transport.
- Certificates: data destruction certificate and recycling certificate.
- Register update: link the certificates to the asset register and write the assets off.
Common mistakes
- Relying on a format or deleting partitions.
- Selling servers to an unlicensed scrap dealer.
- Forgetting external storage and backup tapes.
- Not getting a certificate for every job.
Can old servers be sold?
Yes if they work, but only after secure data wiping and through a licensed party. Triple RE assesses equipment for purchase or refurbishment and recycles the rest. Server recycling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is deleting data and formatting a server enough?
No. Deleted data can be recovered. Use NIST 800-88 wiping or physical destruction.
Can server drives be destroyed inside our company?
Yes. Triple RE offers on-site data destruction, then takes the devices for recycling.
What about UPS batteries?
They are transported and treated as hazardous waste and must not go in general waste.
Related
Need help? Call +20 100 069 1011 or request a pickup.