What is IT Asset Disposition?

Understanding IT asset disposition (ITAD) is a critical part of complying with data privacy and security regulations. Securely disposing of outdated and inoperable networking equipment is essential for any organization, including hosting companies, service providers and cable operators that rely on large-scale networking equipment. So, what is ITAD, and what does it mean for you?

ITAD, or IT asset disposition, services support updating or upgrading your IT infrastructure by allowing you to safely and securely dispose of your existing network equipment.

But getting rid of unneeded equipment is only one option. Reusing and repurposing pre-owned equipment enables you to recycle and maximize the potential of enterprise network solutions.

On this page, you’ll not only learn exactly what ITAD services are; you’ll also learn how to choose the best ITAD provider for your needs, as well as why selling used network equipment to a qualified networking vendor is another option you should consider.

About ITAD Services

As data security and environmental regulations related to technology become more stringent, the IT asset disposition market continues to grow, creating more disposition service options for data centers and enterprises that rely on high-performance networking equipment.

In fact, there is a wide range of enterprise ITAD services that need to be considered for companies that are looking to dispose of their networking equipment, including:

• Wiping Equipment: disconnecting or destroying network infrastructure is not an efficient way to guarantee that all sensitive data has been removed from a network. ITAD ensures the complete removal of data from end-of-life assets and from the cloud.
• Correct Disposal: strict disposal regulations means companies must follow a thorough process when getting rid of and destroying IT equipment. IT asset disposition services ensure all your outdated equipment is disposed of in line with compliance standards.
• Refurbishment: extend the lifespan and repurpose your existing equipment. You can also maximize your investment by bringing out-of-date hardware back into service.
• On-Site Services: many companies within the ITAD industry offer on-site services. Consultants and agents can advise and carry out data center IT asset disposition services to guarantee compliance and streamline your processes.
• Inventory Tracking: large-scale enterprises must track each piece of equipment and where it’s at in the disposal process. It’s all part of being audit-ready at all times.

Building and maintaining a first-class network requires a knowledge of all the ITAD solutions that are available, as well as what to look for in companies offering those services. But before getting into that, it’s important to also get a sense of why ITAD is so important, particularly to data centers.

Why is ITAD So Important for Data Centers?

Investing in enterprise IT asset disposition is an important consideration for two main reasons: data protection and environmental protection.

The equipment used within data centers contains highly sensitive data on companies’ internal operations and customers and clients. Data that falls into the possession of cybercriminals could soon find its way onto the black market or even be used to commit fraud and blackmail.

Ransomware — a malware that holds data ransom — in particular is a problem for larger companies, and many breaches have occurred due to a failure to dispose of end-of-life equipment correctly.

To make things worse, failing to adhere to disposition compliance standards can lead to penalties. Significant violations can, therefore, lead to companies suffering severe financial difficulties.

Finally, data centers must consider how the impact of their disposal processes impact the environment. If pre-owned networking equipment is not disposed of properly, it could hurt the planet, and not complying with all rules and regulations could even lead to significant fines.

Properly disposing of networking equipment also allows for the recovery of valuable parts. These parts may be repurposed for any replacement equipment you purchase for your data center or even be sold to a networking vendor, which will help you recoup part of your initial investment.

How to Choose the Right Company in the ITAD Market

If you do need to hire an IT asset disposition company, there are some items — in addition to understanding their service offerings — to consider going into the selection process. The data center IT asset disposition market is enormous, and there are countless providers to choose from.

When assessing a company’s ITAD processes and services, prioritize the following criteria:

• Value Recovery: disposal is important, but value recovery is better. Search for a company that can get you top dollar for anything recovered through the disposal process.
• Certifications: regulatory compliance is essential. Look for specific credentials. In particular, any worthwhile ITAD company should possess ADISA, NIST SP-800-88, and R2 certifications.
• Strong Track Record: shop around and get a second opinion. Speak to their other clients to get a better idea of their performance. Never rely on the service provider’s website alone.
• Expertise: ask questions regarding compliance, process checks, and customization options. Speaking to an agent will soon reveal whether they have the appropriate expertise.
• Rigor: examine a company’s process to ensure the integrity of their plans. Workflows matter, as modern ITAD solutions are more than an exercise in general disposal.

Choosing an IT asset disposition service provider is not something to take lightly. Do your due diligence before settling on an ITAD company to work with.

An Alternative to IT Asset Disposition for Data Centers

As already mentioned, asset disposition involves a vast amount of complexity to ensure you remain compliant with current regulations. Even when you hire an ITAD service provider, overseeing an asset disposition project requires a considerable amount of internal resources.

And in a world where customers are increasingly choosing who they work with based on their green policies, this alternative to asset disposition has the power to slash your carbon output.

Consider the more profitable — and potentially more sustainable option — of selling pre-owned equipment to a networking vendor, like BrightStar Systems. And, where possible, consider how existing equipment may be disassembled or wholly repurposed to fit into your existing network.

Networking equipment is expensive, and recovering even a portion of the investment will help you to boost your bottom line. Enlist the help of an organization with the power to get you top dollar.

Benefits of Selling Pre-Owned Networking Equipment

Large-scale operations with a complete understanding of what ITAD is may already choose to sell pre-owned networking equipment versus dispose of it completely. Even if you’ve never worked with a networking vendor previously, making the transition is easy. Examine the benefits of selling closely, and you’ll soon see that it makes perfect business sense to sell equipment that’s still operable.

You Get a Return on Your Investment

Cash flow is essential and making a return on your initial investment can help you pay for upgraded replacement equipment. In fact, you may even be able to work with the same vendor to sell your pre-owned equipment and buy the replacement equipment, saving you time and resources.

A Longer Lifecycle is Good for the Environment

Disposal takes a toll on the environment because every perfectly good piece of equipment consigned to the incinerator contributes to the manufacturing of brand new equipment.

But oftentimes, used equipment still has plenty of life left, and may even be the ideal solution for companies that don’t have the ability to shell out top-dollar for new equipment.

And when you sell your networking equipment, you’re not only fulfilling your duty to the planet; you’re telling your customers that you care about the environment and that you’re willing to make the extra effort to ensure your networking equipment is used for the entirety of its life cycle.

You Don’t Have to Worry About Disposition Regulation

Data centers already have a ton of regulations to worry about, but managing the disposal process yourself by selling your used equipment relieves you of any additional regulation responsibilities.

Companies disposing of old equipment are also prone to additional inspections. Remove that stressor from your company by ensuring you don’t need to be audit-ready at any given moment.

Refrain from heaping yet more obligations on your organization and avoid the difficulties of the rules and regulations that the IT asset disposition industry have to comply with.

Partner with BrightStar Systems for All Your Used Equipment Needs

We understand that going from utilizing asset disposition services to reselling used networking equipment can be difficult. After all, who do you sell used gear to in order to get the best price? And where do you find new and repurposed equipment to replace your equipment?

Partner with BrightStar Systems, an experienced networking vendor with the industry knowledge to help you make the best decisions related to selling used network equipment. We’ve even put together an in-depth guide on how to sell used network equipment.

At BrightStar Systems, we specialize in buying and selling pre-owned networking equipment from Juniper Networks, Arista Networks, and Cisco Systems, specifically. We stock a wide selection of routers, switches, optics and cables from all three brands. We also help streamline the selling process by covering all the associated shipping costs and we’ll even save you the trouble of testing any equipment you’re looking to sell to ensure it’s operating properly.

For any equipment you end up purchasing from us, you can rest easy knowing that it comes with BrightStar Systems’ 1-Year, In-House Warranty. If you’re interested in selling used equipment — versus going the ITAD route — or buying used equipment, get started by requesting a free quote.