Disposing of old computers

[littlesista06]

What do ya'll do with yours? I've got 2 CPUs and want to ditch them, but don't want anyone getting any info off of them that I don't want them to have. Get it? :)

What can I do? I found software that will erase all your personal info stored, but I don't want to PAY to trash my computer. I'm not sure what files need deleting not to mention the hidden files that there are that I know nothing about.

Any advice?

[KarlaB]

So glad you asked this! We have been wondering the same thing! I know a store here will buy them (I am guessing for a minimal price), but like you said I want to make sure everything is off of there.

[AnnW]

since we have only had 3 computers and still have 2 of them...LOL
our first one died an ugly death and sat in our garage for a long time and then i think we just threw it away. i know there are organizations that you can donate them to.

[littlesista06]

since we have only had 3 computers and still have 2 of them...LOL
our first one died an ugly death and sat in our garage for a long time and then i think we just threw it away. i know there are organizations that you can donate them to.

I don't care if I even take them to the dump or an electronics recycler, I just really need to know how to get all my info off of it.

[RCT]

take out the hard drive! it's small (like 8 x 5). then donate or garbage the rest of it....

[littlesista06]

and how would i do that? lol

[littlesista06]

oh, and how do i know what the hard drive even looks like? lol
then do i just throw out the hard drive and hope no one goes dumpster diving and gets my info anyway?

[Diane]

I "thought" I read somewhere that you're suppose to be able to drill into something... (maybe the hard drive??? :) ) but right now I can't remember what that might be. :rolleyes: I'll have to ask dh... I think he'll know. LOL

[littlesista06]

Found this:
http://www.microsoft.com/smallbusiness/resources/technology/security/clean_the_hard_drive_before_dumping_your_pc.mspx