Q: What should I do with my old IT equipment?

A: There are lots of things to think about, such as security and peace of mind, when considering of ways to resolve the issues of disposing of your old IT equipment.

Just taking it to the local rubbish tip might be the first option that springs to mind, but in reality that's everything but a solution. A common misconception with redundant IT hardware is that it has no future value to the business. Although it may be of no value to you, it could be extremely useful in the wrong hands, which completely compromises your company's data-security.

Even a sledgehammer to a hard drive won't be enough to eradicate the sensitive data contained; a more responsible approach is a must as it has been proven that you can still access data after taking such action. Ignoring the careful considerations that go with IT disposal could lead to company sensitive information being obtained, and in turn it could benefit fraud and/or destroy your company's reputation.

There is also the legal and green agenda for which as an owner of a business you are responsible for. This is addressed by the "The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment" (WEEE) Regulations. It's not only there to combat unethical and unsafe methods of IT equipment disposal, but also helps to properly recycle anything you may consider as redundant hardware.

You need to be selective about which company you choose to dispose of your old hardware. Some companies will charge a small fortune and offer no guarantee that your company data will not be compromised. Others offer a more Corporate Social Responsibility approach, where data is completely removed to the highest standards possible, and then the hardware can be donated to local schools and communities in developing countries, such as Africa and at a low price.

There are a significant amount of businesses around the region who are stockpiling their hardware, taking up valuable office space which is costing them money, as they do not know how to dispose of it properly. Choosing the right Partner can help you achieve security, piece of mind and incorporate a worthy CSR approach to the running of your business.