Although servers are designed to be robust and reliable, there undoubtedly comes a time when they need upgrading or replacing. As they are typically quite bulky, they can cumbersome to dispose of - and when there are so many uses for old servers, why should you? Below are some of the best ways to utilise old servers.

 

Turn it into a test server

 

A testing environment is always helpful to keep your network up and running. Try out those wacky ideas without risking bringing the whole network down. Use it as your playground for all things experimental.

 

Add a hypervisor and VMs

 

Rather than getting rid of your old server, why not use it to host other virtual machines? The concept of virtualisation has been around for decades, however, it is still one of the most widely adopted techniques for IT efficiency. If your server is very old, it’s worth noting that some older operating systems may no longer be supported by the vendor, which can impact VM capabilities.

 

Save the world

 

With projects such as SETI@home and IBM World Community Grid, there are many ways you can use your old server for the greater good. SETI@home for example, is a scientific experiment that uses internet-connected computers in the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence. It is worth considering that you will still be powering the server, so this is at a cost to you, therefore it is best to  be mindful when choosing a project. More details of the projects can be found on the BOINC website.

 

Clear it and donate it

 

If you really can’t bear to keep that server hanging around any longer, why not wipe it and donate it to a charity? Your old server may end up being repurposed and used in a local school or community centre. Not only is that old hardware no longer a cost to you, it will also be helping the local community.

 

Old hardware doesn’t mean useless hardware. There are many different ways to utilise a server you no longer need for the day-to-day running of the network. However, if you really just want rid of that old server please remember to dispose of it correctly according to WEEE regulations. Servers fall under the EU’s Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) directive which classes them as hazardous waste and means they need to be disposed of correctly. Information about how to do this can be found on the government website. If you’re still undecided about whether you want to keep the hardware or not, remember to power it down regardless if it’s not in use. Keeping it running has its own associated costs (power and cooling).