🧹 What to Do Before Giving Away or Selling Your Computer

Thinking about donating, recycling, or reselling your computer? Before it leaves your hands, make sure your personal info doesn’t go with it. Here’s a simple, step-by-step checklist to do it safely.

🗂️ 1.Back Up Your Data

Before you wipe anything, save everything. Use:

• External drives (USB or SSD)

• Cloud storage (Google Drive, iCloud, OneDrive, Dropbox)

• Or both (belt-and-suspenders)

🔐 2.Sign Out of Everything

This helps avoid syncing your data after reset:

• iCloud, iTunes, App Store (Mac)

• Microsoft Account (Windows)

• Chrome or Safari sync

• Adobe, Dropbox, Steam, etc.

🧼 3.Factory Reset the Computer

Wipe your info and reinstall the OS:

• Mac: 

  Use Erase Assistant or Recovery Mode (⌘ + R on startup)

• Windows 10/11: 

  Go to Settings > System > Recovery > Reset this PC → Choose Remove everything

✅ Important: Choose the “remove files and clean the drive” option if you’re selling or donating.

🛠️ 4.Deauthorize Software Licenses

Some programs (like Adobe or Microsoft Office) are tied to your hardware. Sign out or deauthorize to avoid issues with future installs.

♻️ 5.Physically Clean It Up

Wipe down the keyboard, screen, and case. Bonus points for canned air in the vents—it helps resale value and shows care.

💡 Bonus Tip

If you’re donating to a school or nonprofit, ask if they offer free pickup or tech recycling programs!

Need help wiping your device securely? 

PCRescue members can request help right from the support app. Not a member? Contact us for a free 30 day trial.