The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has released new guidance on how to properly retire old digital systems and devices – a process known as decommissioning. The guidance is aimed at IT teams, but there are useful takeaways for any small business that uses computers, software or online systems.

Why this matters

With so many demands on our time, it can be easy to leave old laptops or devices lying around when they’re no longer needed. But old tech can quietly become a security risk. It might still hold sensitive information or give someone a way into your systems without you realising it.

The NCSC says that getting rid of old systems safely is just as important as setting them up in the first place.

What should you do?

Here are some key tips from the guidance:

·    Don’t wait until the end: Plan ahead. If you’re buying new systems or changing software, think about how and when you’ll stop using the old one.

·    Keep track of what you use: Make a basic list of your computers, software and devices. This helps you stay in control, especially if you’ve tried out different tools over the years.

·    Back up your data: Before getting rid of any computer or online service, save a full copy of the important data. This includes documents, emails, passwords, and anything you might need to recover later.

·    Wipe data properly: If you’re planning to sell, donate, or throw away an old device, make sure you clear all data first. A factory reset often isn’t enough. Look up how to securely wipe a device or ask someone to do it for you.

·    Check it’s really gone: If you’ve used someone else to help dispose of a device, ask for proof it was wiped properly. If you’ve done it yourself, keep a note of what you did and when – that may help if you encounter problems in the future.

Final thought

You don’t need to be a tech expert to take simple steps that protect your business. The NCSC’s guidance is a good reminder that old systems aren’t just clutter – they can be a risk if they’re not dealt with properly.

If you’re not sure where to start, make a list of the tech you use now, and think about what’s no longer needed. That’s often the first and most important step.

You can find more detail on the NCSC website if you’d like to explore further.