There are many reasons to sell your laptop. You might want to upgrade your laptop or get a larger one for your growing needs. However, selling your broken laptop needs some preparation. Because your personal data is stored on your computer, you cannot simply dispose of it. You should make sure that your personal information is not sold with your laptop.
It is scary to give away your laptop. You should ensure that you don’t put yourself at risk by giving away your laptop. Think about how much time you’ve put into your laptop. This means that there are a lot personal items in the laptop. It is important to get rid of everything before you sell it.
1. Backup your computer files
Before you do anything else, this is the first thing that you should do. The size of the files you wish to backup will determine the destination. You can use the Dropbox or Google Drive cloud storage to store a few files. You may also need an external hard drive that has enough storage space to store all your files.
Doing a file backup ensures that your files are protected before you clean up your laptop. These files are still necessary to carry on your daily life even after you sell your laptop.
2. Software and files that are digitally encrypted can be deauthorized
Next, deauthorize all files and digital programs currently being used. Examples include files downloaded from online stores like iTunes, Amazon’s Kindle Apps and others. Enable two-factor authentication to clean up the services.
It is essential to clean up your software so that no one can log into your accounts. This is a must-have before you sell your laptop. You may be charged for services you don’t use. After you sell your laptop, make it difficult for others to access your files or online accounts.
3. Secure Hard Drive Formatting
You have now saved your files and logged out your software accounts. Now you can format your hard disk securely. This is a great method to clean your laptop’s hard disk. While it will take some time, this will protect you from identity theft if your computer is sold.
This process, despite taking quite a while to complete, is very simple. To complete the process, you will need to follow the standard hard drive formatting procedures. This process cleans your drive and leaves no trace of personal data.
4. Reinstall the Operating System on your Laptop
Formatting a laptop hard drive on a formatted computer will not erase any data. Before you sell your laptop, it is important to do an operating system reinstallation. You only need the operating system files that you want to use during the process. If you don’t want to hire an expert, you can seek their assistance. You can still manage the process on your own.
To prove that the laptop works properly, the operating system must be installed. The buyer wouldn’t know if the laptop is in good condition unless it was installed. Register any software. For your computer to work smoothly, create simple passwords and accounts.
5. Perform a physical clean
To make your laptop appealing to potential buyers, clean it. This will improve your chances of selling the laptop at a high price or making it easier to sell. Make sure your computer looks and feels great. Take some photos, and then share them with potential buyers.
The bottom line
Make sure you prepare your laptop for the next buyer when it comes time to sell your old laptop. This includes protecting your personal information, as explained here. You should ensure that your files are secure and stored in a safe backup space.
The next steps are formatting the computer and reinstalling your operating system. Finally, you should clean the laptop to make it more appealing to customers. This will allow you to safely sell your laptop, and also protect yourself against any potential risks associated with it.