How are Servers Refurbished?

Refurbished technology refers to pre-owned devices that have been restored to a like-new condition, or as close as possible. This process involves thorough inspection, testing, and necessary repairs to ensure the device meets high-quality standards.  

Refurbished IT hardware, including servers, undergoes a meticulous refurbishment process to guarantee reliability and performance comparable to new devices. 

How are Servers Refurbished? 

The refurbishment of servers is a detailed and multi-step process designed to extend the life of IT hardware and provide a cost-effective, sustainable solution for businesses: 

  • Assessment and Inspection: The process begins with a comprehensive assessment of the server. Technicians inspect all hardware components for wear and tear, identifying parts that need replacement or repair.
  • Cleaning and Restoration: Servers accumulate dust and debris over time, which can affect performance. During refurbishment, each server is meticulously cleaned. Physical damage is repaired, and cosmetic imperfections are addressed to restore the server's appearance.
  • Component Upgrades: Outdated or faulty components are replaced with new or refurbished parts. This can include upgrading CPUs, memory, storage drives, and other critical components to enhance performance and extend the server's lifespan.
  • Testing and Quality Assurance: Rigorous testing is a crucial part of the refurbishment process. Servers are tested for functionality, performance, and compatibility with various software and applications. This ensures that all components work seamlessly together.
  • Data Sanitisation: To ensure data security, all existing data on the server is thoroughly erased using industry-standard data sanitisation techniques. This step is vital to protect sensitive information and prepare the server for new use.
  • Configuration and Deployment: Once the server passes all tests, it is configured according to the client's requirements. This might involve customising the server for specific workloads or applications. After configuration, the server is ready for deployment.

Refurbished Technology vs Second Hand 

Refurbished IT hardware differs significantly from second-hand devices. While second-hand items are sold as-is, refurbished devices undergo a comprehensive restoration process. This includes checking, testing, repairing, and upgrading components, as well as data sanitisation. As a result, refurbished servers offer higher reliability and performance compared to second-hand servers.

The Benefits of Refurbished IT Hardware 

  • Cost Savings: Refurbished servers are typically more affordable than new ones, allowing businesses to allocate their budgets more efficiently. 
  • Environmental Impact: Choosing refurbished technology helps reduce electronic waste and the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing new devices. 
  • Performance and Reliability: Refurbished servers, with upgraded components and rigorous testing, can perform on par with new servers, ensuring reliability and efficiency. 

Research Supporting Refurbished Performance 

Techbuyer’s research published in the IEEE Transactions on Sustainable Computing demonstrates that refurbished servers can perform as well as new servers. The study highlights that with proper refurbishment, including component upgrades and thorough testing, refurbished servers can meet the demands of modern data centres. 

Refurbished IT hardware, including servers, offers a sustainable, cost-effective solution without compromising on performance or reliability. By choosing refurbished technology, businesses can enjoy high-quality devices while contributing to environmental sustainability.

Techbuyer’s Sustainable IT Solutions 

Techbuyer is a specialist in refurbished IT hardware, delivering high-quality devices to businesses around the world. Our refurbished technology undergoes a strict 25-point refurbishment process to ensure quality and high-performance.  

From single components and devices, to full IT infrastructure designs, we deliver solutions fitted to your individual needs. Explore our refurbished hardware solutions here.