How IT Asset Disposition Companies Dispose of Hardware

Moore’s Law, first observed in the 1960s but still observed more than 50 years later, describes the speed of technological innovation, projecting the number of components per integrated circuit doubling every two years. In a world of constant innovation, the question of what happens to outdated hardware is one that often lingers in the background. IT asset disposition is how companies dispose of their hardware, and ITAD companies make sure that equipment is properly wiped or destroyed before going to resale or recycling.

The ITAD journey begins with a meticulous assessment and inventory process. ITAD companies categorize hardware based on condition and potential for remarketing or recycling, recovering value whenever possible. A team of experts thoroughly evaluates each asset, determining the best course of action to maximize value and minimize environmental impact.

One of the primary concerns in IT asset disposition is data security. Responsible ITAD companies prioritize the secure erasure or destruction of sensitive data before any hardware is retired. Many industries, like finance and healthcare, are regulated by laws like HIPAA or FACTA, to protect their clients. They way they dispose of hardware must meet compliance or face putting their clients at risk on top of fines and reputational damage. Many companies adhere to the DoD 5220.22 Wiping Standard, which includes at least three passes. For data that must be destroyed, punching or shredding machines destroy the drive completely. ITAD companies must employ industry-leading data wiping techniques, ensuring that confidential information remains confidential, whether the hardware is destined for resale or recycling.

ITAD companies actively seek opportunities for resale, giving a second life to hardware that still holds value. This not only benefits businesses looking for cost-effective solutions but also contributes to a circular economy by extending the lifespan of technology. A good ITAD company specializes in identifying market demand and optimizing the resale potential of retired IT assets.

For hardware that has reached the end of its usable life, responsible recycling is the next step. ITAD companies adhere to strict environmental regulations and ethical recycling practices. The goal is to minimize electronic waste (e-waste) and prevent harmful substances from entering landfills. By partnering with certified recycling facilities, ITAD companies contribute to a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to hardware disposal.

When choosing ITAD companies, determining who to trust can be difficult. Certifications demonstrate quality standards backed by an objective third party. Competitive ITAD companies prioritize certifications and compliance with industry standards. Maintaining certifications ensures that the disposal process is transparent, accountable and in line with environmental and ethical standards.

As Moore’s law observed more than 50 years ago, technological innovation is not slowing down. As more equipment becomes obsolete, secure and sustainable ITAD ensures the safety of data and of the environment. CentricsIT, with over 15 years of expertise, continues to lead the way in IT asset disposition, emphasizing data security, resale opportunities, environmentally conscious recycling, and a commitment to certifications and compliance. To ensure quality, our ITAD facilities maintain ISO 14001, ISO 9001, ISO 45001, and destroy data to ensure HIPAA, FACTA, GLB, SOX, PCI and GDPR compliance. For more information about our ITAD programs, schedule a consultation.