Refurbished IT hardware is an increasingly popular alternative to buying brand-new equipment. As awareness grows surrounding hardware manufacturing’s environmental impact and prices of new models rise, demand for refurbished solutions is also surging.
Refurbished data center hardware offers a range of benefits for businesses. Beyond substantial cost savings, these restored devices deliver enterprise-level performance and boost operational efficiency. Choosing refurbished over brand-new equipment also supports a more sustainable IT industry by embracing the circular economy—reducing manufacturing demands and cutting down on e-waste.
Yet, some businesses still hesitate to embrace refurbished hardware. This is often due to lingering misconceptions about refurbished components, the support they receive and what they mean for business IT infrastructures. Here, we debunk some of the biggest myths about refurbished hardware.
Common myths about refurbished IT & the truth
Myth: Refurbished IT is just used or second-hand equipment
One of the most persistent misconceptions is that “refurbished IT” simply means used equipment. In reality, while both refurbished and secondhand devices are pre-owned, the term “refurbished” refers to a much more rigorous and defined process.
Reality:
Refurbished IT providers such as Evernex restore the item to its original condition. The device undergoes rigorous testing, repairs, and certification before resale. Here’s a quick breakdown of the difference between secondhand and refurbished hardware:
- Used IT is sold as it is, without necessarily undergoing any restoration processes or quality checks.
- Refurbished IT is fully restored to its original condition. It is then quality-checked and certified to ensure performance and reliability.
Myth: Refurbished hardware has a shorter lifespan
Since a restored device has already served another data center, IT leaders may think that it will have a limited lifespan due to its age. However, the performance and durability of hardware are far less dependent on its age than you might think.
Reality:
OEMs tend to suggest replacing hardware every 3-5 years, with the aim of selling their newer models. This leads many businesses to decommission devices while they are still in excellent condition.
The truth is that the age of hardware is far less important than its maintenance. With proper support, refurbished IT can last just as long as new hardware.
Myth: Performance is lower than new equipment
A similar misconception is that refurbished equipment does not offer the same levels of performance as new models. This error has several roots, from the confusion between “refurbished” and “used” to the assumption that older tech is not as advanced as its new counterparts. Inconsistent quality across refurbished hardware vendors also contributes to this myth, which is why it is crucial to choose a reputable provider.
Reality:
In the same way that a product’s longevity depends on maintenance rather than age, its performance depends on specifications, not whether it is new or refurbished. IT hardware specifications describe the system’s components —including features like processor speed, memory size, and hard drive capacity— which directly impact how well the device performs.
When well-optimized, many refurbished servers, storage, and networking devices match or exceed new models in real-world use. Reputable vendors will also test and certify their restored devices to guarantee high performance standards, avoiding any room for doubt.
Myth: Refurbished IT lacks manufacturer support or warranties
This myth is again based on the confusion between used and refurbished hardware. Used hardware is unregulated and can be sold by individuals without any obligation of support. Businesses therefore may think that refurbished hardware also comes without warranties. This causes concern, since without a warranty hardware is vulnerable in the event of failure, damage or disaster.
Reality:
Many refurbished hardware does come with extended coverage options. For example, Evernex provides a full year’s warranty with each of its refurbished devices, complete with comprehensive maintenance services.
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Evernex provides a complete range of warranty-covered server, storage, and network equipment.
Third-party maintenance (TPM) providers like Evernex also offer flexible service-level agreements (SLAs), warranties, and ongoing support for hardware out of warranty. This includes inspections, diagnostics, repairs and any necessary part replacements.
Myth: Security risks are higher with refurbished IT
Security is a growing issue in the IT industry, as cyber-attacks grow in number and sophistication. It therefore makes sense that businesses want the highest levels of data security for their IT infrastructure. Some users worry that refurbished hardware presents security issues such as vulnerabilities to breaches and malicious inputs, and faulty or outdated firmware.
Reality:
Restored hardware from a reputable provider undergoes several refurbishment processes to ensure maximum data security. Such processes include thorough data sanitization, hardware testing, and firmware updates. This way, we guarantee the protection of both your critical data and that of the equipment’s previous owner.
For the safety of your data and IT systems, your IT team must select a reputable hardware vendor. Buying from providers that follow industry standards and regulations helps ensure compliance with data protection laws like the EU’s GDPR and the UK’s Data Protection Act.
Myth: Refurbished IT is only for small businesses
Refurbished IT equipment comes at much lower prices than brand new models, this is true. In fact, businesses can save between 30 and 70% by investing in refurbished devices. However, this leads some to believe that restored hardware is only for smaller enterprises and companies with limited budgets.
Reality:
Refurbished solutions offer high-quality, cost-effective solutions for businesses of all sizes, including large multinational companies. Data centers are comprised of many distinct devices, from servers and cooling systems to switches and storage equipment. Obviously, these devices imply purchase and maintenance costs, and these costs rise dramatically when each item is brand-new. Therefore, large enterprises also rely on refurbished IT to optimize budgets and enhance resilience.
Industries benefitting from restored hardware solutions range from manufacturing to government agencies, education and logistics. The UK’s Ministry of Defence saved the equivalent of 15 million USD using certified refurbished equipment from Cisco Refresh. Meanwhile, Amazon’s Web Services (AWS) diverts 99% of its older hardware from ending up in landfill through its re:Cycle Reverse Logistics hubs. According to Data Centre Magazine, Amazon recycled or sold 23.5 million components in 2024, promoting the circular economy.
In conclusion, although several misconceptions and myths continue to surround refurbished hardware, this is beginning to change. Businesses across a range of industries are shifting to the circular economy and refurbished solutions as the smart, sustainable and cost-effective choice.
Reputable providers of refurbished data center equipment ensure maximum performance and durability through careful restoration and testing. Companies across the world trust Evernex to provide high-quality, durable and affordable refurbished hardware through our innovative Spare as a Service – SPaaS™ program.
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Discover more about refurbished hardware from Evernex and how it can benefit your business.
When your enterprise data center needs a refresh, consider using the circular economy to save costs without compromising performance. Investing in refurbished IT hardware reduces your business’s environmental footprint and contributes to a greener IT industry. Above all, make sure to choose a certified vendor which offers a comprehensive warranty, giving you peace of mind.