Data Centre Decommissioning: A Practical Guide for Australian Operators
Steps and considerations when decommissioning servers, storage and networking.
Summary
Decommissioning a data centre or server room involves planning, data sanitisation or destruction, physical removal and recycling. This guide outlines typical steps and how a bulk recycler can support operators in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Canberra with Data Centre Recycling and secure destruction.
Planning the Decommission
Before power-down, document what is being retired: servers, storage, networking, power and cooling. Identify all data-bearing devices and decide whether you need secure destruction with certificates. Schedule the work to minimise risk and coordinate with a recycler who can collect at the right time.
Data and Security
Data on storage devices must be handled in line with your policy and any contractual or regulatory requirements. Many operators use physical destruction (e.g. shredding) with certificates of destruction rather than software wiping alone. We offer Hard Drive and Data Storage Secure Destruction as part of or alongside data centre recycling.
Removal and Recycling
Equipment is collected from your site (for qualifying bulk volumes we offer complimentary pickup in our service areas) or you can use our drop-off facilities in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Canberra. We process servers, racks, cabling, UPS and related e-waste and recycle metals, plastics and other materials. Documentation is provided for your records.
Batteries and HVAC
UPS batteries and cooling-related equipment may need separate handling. We offer Lead Acid Battery Recycling and Bulk Air Conditioning Recycling where relevant. Discuss your full scope when you enquire.
Frequently Asked Questions
Contact us with your location and scale (e.g. number of racks or pallets). We will work with you to determine eligibility.
Yes. We work with operators on row and hall decommissions across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Canberra.