Don’t go to the dump just yet!

Don’t throw it away!

Though many upgrades are possible, focusing on the RAM and storage is best.

Old computer with a ‘retired’ sign on it

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Running short of RAM can hamper performance, so adding RAM can refresh an old PC.

A RAM upgrade is most useful when a PC has less than 4GB of RAM installed.

An old mechanical disk drive can also hold back PC performance, so considerreplacing your old hard drive.

A stick of computer RAM being inserted into a motherboard.

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However, not every PC allows upgrades, so research this before you purchase new hardware.

A great example is an old ThinkPad used in the garage.

It could be great for tracking to-do lists and recording the progress of a garden or other mess-making projects.

Two old computer monitors on a desk in a workspace.

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Most people would never use a new PC for such work.

It’s a dirty, sometimes even damp, environment.

you could play these games through anemulator.

A screenshot of the Filezilla FTP program on a Windows computer.

Filezilla

The emulator uses software to mimic the original game console or PC.

It will make files accessible to multiple computers in your home and even on the Internet.

A file server is not a demanding task, so most old computers can do the job.

A screenshot of the Minecraft video game.

Use It as a Game Server

Most old PCs can run a game server.

Unlike the clients connecting to it, the server doesn’t need to render the game’s graphics.

Turning an old PC into a game server can give you a dedicated virtual space to play with friends.

A screenshot of the Plex media center software.

Plex

You won’t have to pay a monthly fee, as you would if you rented the server.

AMinecraftserver is a great place to start, but many old, popular games offer a dedicated server option.

you might stream media or host video files you own.

A home security camera on a desk next to a smartphone.

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Installing software such asPlexcan help you connect multiple services and media files with one interface.

You may even be able to access files from smartphones and tablets.

Those who love over-the-air TV caninstall a TV tunerto watch or record local TV broadcasts.

A man sitting in front of a desktop computer on a small desk.

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An old computer can help.

Many security cameras can connect to a computer on your local connection and record video to it.

Look for home security cameras known as “IP cameras.”

A donation bin with a computer keyboard, mouse, and desktop computer inside.

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These connect directly over a local internet or the Internet.

You will also need software to manage the cameras.

Many options are available, butiSpyis the most popular free option.

A man stacking laptop in a truck.

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Turning an old computer into a guest computer is simple.

All you gotta do is set up a new local account for your guest.

If not, don’t throw it away.

Consider donating it first.

The donation centers near you will vary depending on your location.

Computers can be hazardous as they degrade and should be recycled.

Most PC manufacturers have recycling programs, and many pay for shipping.

These programs can be helpful if you live in a rural area without easy access to a recycling center.

FAQ

There are severalways to repurpose your old Mac.

For computers with sensitive personal information, you shouldcompletely erase the hard drive.

Simply deleting data isn’t enough; you’ll need to use special software to destroy the data.

There arewebsites where you’re able to sell used electronicslike Decluttr, BuyBackWorld, and Canitcash.

Amazon, Best Buy, and Craigslist are also options.

Toprepare before selling your PC, back up your data remotely and wipe the hard drive.