# How to Securely Dispose of Old IT Equipment

- Link: https://dbr-soft.com/how-to-securely-dispose-of-old-it-equipment/
- Published: 2026-10-16T14:16:45+00:00
- Author: David Botero

Throwing a computer in the trash, or donating it untouched, can expose customer 
data, credentials, and business records.

**Step 1: Inventory**

Record every device being retired, with its serial number and owner. This supports
audit trails and compliance.

**Step 2: Back up what you need**

Confirm that required data is safely stored elsewhere before anything is erased.

**Step 3: Remove access**

Delete the device from your management systems and revoke certificates, VPN profiles,
and accounts tied to it.

**Step 4: Sanitize the data**

Choose a method based on sensitivity (see our guide to wiping vs. shredding). Don’t
rely on simply deleting files or reformatting. Both leave recoverable data.

**Step 5: Choose a responsible recycler**

Use a certified electronics recycler that provides:

– Chain-of-custody documentation

– A certificate of data destruction or recycling

– Environmentally responsible processing

**Step 6: Keep records**

Retain certificates and logs. They demonstrate due diligence if questioned by auditors,
insurers, or regulators.

**Don’t forget**

– Printers, copiers, and scanners with internal drives

– Phones and tablets

– Network equipment with stored configurations

– USB drives and backup media

**Privacy law**

If devices contained personal information, Quebec’s Law 25 expects you to destroy
or anonymize it securely when it’s no longer needed.

**DBR Soft can coordinate secure retirement and certified recycling of your equipment.****
[Contact us for more information.](https://dbr-soft.com/contact/)**

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