Do you own or manage a small business? If so, then you understand the importance of protecting your data.
After all, your digital files are the lifeblood of your business. That’s why it’s so important to understand how to dispose of computer hard drives when it’s time to upgrade.
Fortunately, you’ve come to the right place for tips on hard drive disposal to help keep you and your customers’ information as safe as possible.
This article takes a look at how to dispose of hard drives as well as the benefits of using a hard drive disposal service. Keep reading to get the inside scoop.
1. Wipe Your Hard Drive Using Software
When it comes to wiping your secure information from a hard drive before recycling it, your first option is to invest in software that will erase anything stored on the drive.
The key is to buy the software on DVD or download it onto a USB device, then restart your computer with the DVD or USB device plugged in.
When the computer boots, simply follow the instructions that will guide you through the entire process. Keep in mind that this process could take several hours.
Once the data wiping process is complete, remove the DVD or USB device and reset the computer.
2. Wipe Your Hard Drive Using a Degausser
The second way to destroy your hard drive is with a machine called a degausser. This type of machine disrupts and eliminates magnetic fields stored on the hard drive, thus completely removing the data.
This is an efficient way to safely remove your sensitive data prior to recycling the drive.
3. Shred Your Hard Drive
Another option is to physically shred the hard drives taken from your business computers. This process starts with punching holes in the drive using a drill of a nail punch. The key is to render the drive completely unusable so that whatever information it contained can never be recovered.
Then you can drop it off at an e-recycling facility so the materials can be shredded and recycled for future use.
4. Destroy Your Hard Drive Using a Crushing Device
The next option is to have your hard drives crushed with a machine that uses a conical steel punch to deform the drive. This is a quick and thorough method of destroying the drive to ensure your sensitive data remains totally secure.
5. Hire a Disposal Service
The best way to dispose of computer hard drive and protect your sensitive data and that of your customers is to simply hire a hard drive disposal service. These are companies that specialize in the fast and efficient destruction of e-devices so they can be recycled.
Make sure that the company you hire provides you with a certificate of destruction that clearly states that the data stored on the device has been completely erased and the hardware has been destroyed responsibly.
A Businessowner’s Guide to Computer Hard Drive Disposal
Running a successful small business can be exciting yet stressful. These tips for proper hard drive disposal will help keep your data safe and your customers happy.
Keep exploring this blog to discover more great recycling tips and advice.