7 STEPS OF DATA CENTER DECOMMISSIONING
INTRODUCTORY SET UP
We start by drafting a scope of work together. What
is the budget? Identify each of the internal stakeholders associated with the
work. Identify necessary workflows and backup systems to ensure there is
not a critical loss of power or data.
ITEMIZING
Map out all of the hardware and software assets
involved in the decommissioning. Follow up with a physical review.
Compile a comprehensive inventory: servers, racks, storage equipment, hard drives,
SSDs, HVAC equipment, networking gear, firewalls, routers, software
licenses, virtualization hardware, keyboards, mice, power equipment, cabinets,
and so on. Identify and retain all software licenses associated with
servers and networking equipment. Create detailed asset map listing
equipment and location of items to be decommissioned. Work with your ITAD
provider to determine the final designation for each item: will you reuse,
remarket, or recycle? What are the opportunities for asset recovery?
PLANNING
When will you implement the decommissioning, Create
an implementation plan listing roles and how long do you estimate it will take?
Create necessary workflows and backup systems to ensure there is not a critical
loss of power or data. Put together a contact list of vendors you might
need before, during, and after the work. Prepare tracking numbers for each
earmarked asset, and cancel vendor maintenance contracts for affected
equipment. Identify how you will data sanitize storage devices.
TOOLING UP
List out the tools and labor you will need for the
data center decommissioning forklifts, hoists, device shredders, degausser,
pallets, packing foam, hand tools, labels, boxes, crates. What type of packing
foam for the different equipment you will be boxing? Be specific at every
stage about what the job requires. If you will be hiring outside
resources, undertake the necessary background and security checks ahead of
time. Maxicom, ITAD experts leverage their extensive knowledge to help you
understand the specific requirements for your job.
TEARING DOWN AND WIPING
Meet stakeholders ahead of the decommissioning. Run
through the plan and iron out details. Do you plan to regroup once the work is
underway to review progress? On the day of the decommissioning, safely
disconnect equipment from the network according to the plan. Tag assets. For
data storage equipment, will devices be transported offsite for sanitization
and handling elsewhere? What is the process for issuing digital
certificates of data sanitization? Erase, degauss, shred, or otherwise
prepare for recycling each device as specified. We will ensure a
comprehensive data sanitization plan is not only in place but is executed
seamlessly.
PACKING AND CLEAR UP
The teardown is complete, and packing can begin.
Have you reserved a dedicated space for packing assets? For items earmarked for
reuse within the organization, follow the handover protocol. For assets
destined for refurbishing or recycling, pack and label for the intended
recipients. Use asset management software to track all stages. If you are
working in colocation, what are the requirements for how the vacated space
should be left? For on-premise, make sure you follow the stipulations laid out
in the project plan for clearing and cleaning the tear-down space. At Maxicom,
we are masters at logistics.
COORDINATION AND RECOVERY
Communicate with the IT and accounting teams to
secure disposed assets are recorded accordingly. For refurbished assets,
coordinate with your ITAD provider to confirm secure chain of responsibility
and receipt of sanitization certificates for storage hardware. Ensure you
receive itemized certificates of destruction for items earmarked for
destruction or deemed as not recoverable. What is the total value
recovered and returned to your IT budget? Assess similarly for recycled
hardware. Your ITAD provider will assist with each stage of the process to
ensure you are maximizing return from your retiring assets. Analysis
documentation before and after the process to compliance with responsible
recycling practices.
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