While some people are increasingly enthusiastic about buying used technology, others are still quite hesitant about the subject. The reason for this is often the fear of receiving inferior and outdated equipment that could lead to a fault in the IT infrastructure or a loss of data.
To anticipate this concern: It is unfounded. If you know what to look out for when purchasing, used and refurbished IT hardware is a real benefit for you. We mean that in the truest sense of the word, because: By buying second-hand, you save money and make a valuable contribution to environmental protection at the same time.
In this blog post, we take a closer look at these factors and explain why the reluctance to buy used IT hardware is unfounded.
The three terms all belong to the same context, but are quickly mistakenly blurred into synonyms. However, there is a significant difference that will certainly influence your choice:
First of all, used means all devices that have already been in use. That is the only thing this term says and therefore nothing about the quality and condition of the hardware in question.
Refurbished IT hardware is also used - but is extensively checked for defects and refurbished before being resold. This includes, for example, the conscientious deletion of data, the replacement of faulty individual parts and cleaning. In the end, you receive a used device that has been refurbished as good as new and even comes with a warranty.
In the remainder of this blog post, we are deliberately referring specifically to refurbished devices. This is because you are on the safe side with these, especially in a corporate context. This is also the reason why we at IT-Planet have specialized in a range of new and refurbished IT hardware.
It is not without reason that more and more suppliers are offering refurbished appliances as well as new ones. There are many advantages associated with the purchase. These apply to private users as well as companies of all sizes.
We generally recommend that you play it safe and opt for refurbished products. Particularly in the corporate context, you are just as protected in this way as with new devices.
To show the other side: Refrain from buying hardware declared as used from private sources. The term is elastic and can mean anything from inferior technology to minor signs of use, especially on popular flea market platforms. However, as you cannot claim any warranty or service here, in the worst case scenario you will be left with an interrupted IT infrastructure.
Make sure you buy from reputable sources. There are now various such providers and dealers of new hardware also offer a section with used products.
By the way: Refurbished does not immediately mean old! Contrary to a widespread assumption, you will not only receive discontinued models, but also modern technologies.
Attention also when selling used devices
Also look for a reputable provider when buying your used IT hardware (IT-Planet also buys hardware)! Ideally, you should delete all the data on your devices yourself before you hand them in. However, if you overlook something, it can quickly become very detrimental for you in the wrong hands. Professional refurbishers make sure that all data has been carefully deleted before the device is sold on.
At IT-Planet, we offer you both as-new and refurbished network technology and IT hardware. The latter is not just a side business for us, but a priority. That is why you will find a large selection of used products from well-known manufacturers such as Cisco, APC, HPE Aruba or Juniper. We are therefore the ideal contact if you need hardware for your company.
Expand your IT infrastructure now with high-quality switches or routers and do something good for the environment in the process. We look forward to your inquiry.
Refurbished IT hardware comprises used devices that undergo a special reconditioning process. They are professionally refurbished, both technically and visually, before being resold. The devices are thoroughly tested, cleaned and repaired. Defective or worn components are replaced, often with more powerful parts, so that the device is fully functional again. Visual defects such as scratches or signs of wear are removed, so that refurbished devices look almost like new, but are more cost-effective than new products. In addition, all personal data is carefully deleted so that the devices can be reused without hesitation. Refurbished hardware is also particularly sustainable, as it conserves resources and extends the life of the devices. At IT-Planet, you enjoy a longer warranty on our refurbished products than on new devices – namely 3 years.
Yes, used hardware is very well suited for use in companies of all sizes. It is safe because it is professionally refurbished and tested by certified specialist companies. If the used devices comply with GDPR standards, all personal data has been deleted, the hardware has been updated to the latest version and any existing security gaps have been closed. The operating system, firmware, BIOS and all security-related updates have been carried out and checked. With used devices from IT-Planet, you don't have to worry, because we place particular emphasis on security and quality, so all products come from certified refurbishers.
Refurbished devices come with a minimum warranty of 12 months by law. At IT-Planet, we go above and beyond: our refurbished products come with a 3-year warranty, which is one year longer than the warranty on new devices.
All personal data on used devices is completely deleted during the refurbishment process. Simply resetting the device to factory settings is often not enough to reliably remove all data.
There are various methods for permanently deleting data:
This way, companies and individuals can be sure that no sensitive information remains on the devices.
