Use this page to learn how to securely dispose of, recycle, sell, or donate University computer equipment.
Data security is a high priority for the University. ITSS staff can assist with the secure recycling, sale or donation of computer equipment.
Securely Delete Data Before Disposal
Use this service to safely remove data before recycling or disposal.
Any items recycled at the ITSS TechCenter must be securely wiped and documented before disposal, per the University standard on Media Sanitization. This includes computers and other devices with hard drives (such as printers, copiers, and multifunction devices), tapes, CDs, cartridges, and other storage and backup media.
- Hard Drives: ITSS has the tools to securely erase a hard drive from a computer, printer, or other device in accordance with University standards. We provide documentation that the work was completed.
- Media: ITSS can de-magnetize and/or shred tapes, CDs, DVDs, and others. There is no charge for this service for University items. Drop them off at the TechCenter front counter.
Recycle University Equipment
Electronic waste (e-waste) contains many heavy metals and other harmful materials. The UMD Environmental Health and Safety Office (EHSO) provides e-waste recycling services for the UMD campus. In coordination with EHSO, ITSS provides a limited e-waste recycling location in the ITSS TechCenter (Kirby Plaza 165) for University computing equipment.
Bring approved items to the ITSS TechCenter front counter for recycling.
Units are responsible for following the appropriate University asset management policies (see: Managing University Capital Equipment) for any equipment they recycle.
What Can Be Recycled at the TechCenter?
The TechCenter e‑waste recycling site is for University-owned computing equipment only. You can bring:
- Computers
- Printers
- Monitors
- Hard Drives
- Media (CDs, DVDs)
- Batteries
What Cannot Be Recycled at the TechCenter?
The TechCenter does not accept the following items due to storage limits and University policy:
- Personal computers, printers, hard drives, or media
- Non-computer-related e-waste (for example, microwave ovens, TVs, etc.)
- Construction materials
If your item cannot be recycled at the TechCenter, contact:
Sell or Donate Non-Capitalized Computer Equipment
Before selling or donating any computer equipment, be sure you are in compliance with University policy.
If Equipment Is Leaving the University
For example, sold to a retiree or donated to another school. You must:
- Remove any Enterprise version of the operating system (i.e., Windows 10 Enterprise). The device may be reloaded with the version that was purchased with it.
- Remove all University site license software (Office, etc.).
- Securely delete all private data and/or destroy the hard drive according to the Media Sanitization Standard.
If Equipment Is Staying Within the University
For example, donated or sold to other departments. You must:
- Securely delete all private data and reinstall the Enterprise operating system.