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Citrix UK’s Clare Leighton explains why giving I.T. devices a makeover is a win for kids, schools and the environment.
30 October 2020
Microsoft officially ended support for Windows 10 in October, bringing an end to security patches and updates.
This means that from now on, any remaining Windows 10 systems will face increasing cyber-vulnerabilities and compliance risk.
For many organisations, the urgency to upgrade has loomed for years, but competing priorities often pushed it down the to-do list.
According to recent industry research, 44% of IT leaders cite conflicting priorities – such as sustainability, security and AI – as top obstacles to digital transformation.
Yet according to Rebooted, what looks like a pressing IT headache can also become an opportunity for good.
The Cambridge-based charity refurbishes decommissioned technology for families and young people in disadvantaged circumstances.
It is now making a public appeal: if your business is sitting on unused Windows 10 hardware, please don’t let it languish – donate it.
‘A lot of companies will be sitting on unwanted IT equipment due to the ending of Windows 10. However, this problem offers an opportunity.
‘Rebooted is able to convert this unwanted IT hardware into safe and usable devices for disadvantaged young people and families. Our partners wipe these systems clean, ensuring there are no cybersecurity issues. We then upload Google Flex and provide them to a disadvantaged person.’
JAMES TWEED
Founding trustee of Rebooted
Rebooted ensures that donated devices are securely wiped, removing all data and eliminating cybersecurity risk, and then installed with ChromeOS Flex (Google Flex).
This turns formerly obsolete machines into reliable, modern computing devices.
The approach not only diverts hardware from landfill, but also upskills communities and brings inclusion where it’s needed most.
The timing could not be more urgent. With Windows 10 support officially over, any systems still operating under that OS will become exposed to increasing threats.
For organisations, neglecting this transition amplifies risk. But by donating outdated equipment today, businesses can align digital transformation with tangible social impact.
Rebooted supports prisoners, ex-offenders and their families by providing recycled laptops, training and shared learning experiences.
‘Every child belongs in education and, in today’s world, that requires digital access and literacy. Businesses can help us to fight a major societal problem simply by donating their old laptops for someone else to use.’
JAMES TWEED
Founding trustee of Rebooted
Businesses can contact Rebooted (hello@rebooted.me) to arrange collection or drop-off of unused IT hardware.
Volunteers or local IT firms can partner with Rebooted to assist with redistribution. Schools and charities can apply to receive refurbished devices.
Citrix UK’s Clare Leighton explains why giving I.T. devices a makeover is a win for kids, schools and the environment.
Online giants and tech powerhouses in the eye of the storm as UK battles ‘e-waste tsunami’.
Government to consider requiring online marketplaces to collect old electronics from customers, MPs told.
Fairphone launches third-generation modular phone to show there is a real sustainable smartphone alternative.
