Computer recycling cuts down on the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. It also limits the number of natural resources used and toxic chemicals released into the environment to make new machines. Although you don’t have to drain fluids as you would with old car parts, there are still steps you should take to prepare old computers for drop off, including those outlined here. 

3 Things to Do Before Recycling Your Computer

1. Deauthorize & Uninstall Programs

Keeping programs authorized on the machine after computer recycling could prevent you from installing the software on your new equipment. This is because some programs only allow access to a set number of computers. To prevent installation problems later, go through and deauthorize all programs. After, uninstall programs to prevent others from using them.

2. Erase Browsing History

You should also remove all traces of your Internet usage from the machine. When you erase the browsing history, check off all options. This ensures saved usernames and passwords are also deleted so people can’t access your social media pages, online banking, and other accounts.

3. Clean Out the Hard Drive 

You don’t want to lose important files, so transfer all data to an external hard drive for safekeeping. Next, clean out the hard drive on the machine. This will clear out all remaining information so it doesn’t end up in the wrong hands. You can install software programs that will effectively wipe the system. You could also remove the hard drive and keep it in your possession.

If you are interested in computer recycling, contact the team at Metalico Rochester. They are known throughout Monroe County, NY, for giving customers fair pricing for their scrap metal and other unwanted belongings and using environmentally responsible practices. To find out how much cash you can get for computer recycling, call (585) 436-0713. Visit the Rochester-based scrap yard online for a list of all accepted items and become a Facebook follower to find out what items are most valuable.