Windows 11 and Computer Recycling’s Next Wave

Now that Windows 11 has been released, businesses are wondering what to do with those old computers that can’t support Microsoft’s newest operating system.

Older devices won’t be able to use the latest and greatest software releases and may soon become security risks.

While Windows 10 is going to be supported until 2025, and while the rollout of Windows 11 is expected to be slow, now is the time to start thinking about upgrading your business’ hardware (and doing away with old computers and other pieces of obsolete technology).

Windows 11 Has New Security Upgrades

Some of the biggest updates (and controversies) of Windows 11 surround security updates.

Microsoft’s new operating system includes a number of features designed to protect computers and other systems from hackers and other malicious actors.

Today, more than ever before, upgrading security is essential to protect the PII (personally identifiable information) of your clients and to keep your company’s own proprietary data secure from theft. Windows 11 security features include a variety of updates, including device encryption, secure boot, virtualization-based security such as HVCI, and Windows Hello facial recognition. These have been shown to reduce malware by 60 percent on test devices according to Microsoft.

Unfortunately, many old computers (and even some computers that aren’t very old) will not be able to upgrade to Windows 11. Much of the controversy is based on the improved security, as it requires more advanced hardware to run, and as you might expect, can be frustrating for end users who have difficulty working with changes like 2 factor authentication, which is on its way to replacing the password.

Nevertheless, for many businesses this means that buying new hardware is unavoidable, and that getting rid of old hardware (often called e-waste) will become a necessity.

Dispose of Your Business’ E-Waste Properly

E-waste, which includes old tech like outdated computers, tablets, laptops, and even phones often contains both PII and proprietary data that businesses need to protect.

Working with a NAID AAA Certified Recycler who can certify proper destruction of computers and other hardware ensures that data is safely destroyed, and your business is protected.

Schedule One-Time or Ongoing Disposal Services

From one-time purges to regularly scheduled service, Protec helps you regularly destroy outdated computers that contain PII and other critical information. To schedule a pickup, call our office at 205-549-2120 or visit our Contact Us page today.