Server Decommissioning Checklist

When it’s time to remove a server, it pays to have a strong plan in place. Many data centers are used for heavily standardized fields. Auditors check records for decommissioning consent. When a server is removed from service or placed into service, the process must be documented with decommissioning documents.

These 11 steps of server decommissioning checklist are here

1. Identify and Schedule

Detect the server in your slot that needs to be decommissioned. Record all essential information and schedule decommission.

2. Make Records

Make a comprehensive record of all actions execute during server decommissioning. It’s important that every step has been well documented for potential audits.

3. Locate all Licenses and Software

Locate and maintain all software licenses for the server.

4. Terminate Contracts

Along with the server scheduled for decommissioning, any vendor maintenance for the associated hardware and software will be unnecessary. Continue and schedule the cancellation of these contracts.

5.  Backups all Data

There will be important information within the server that needs to be maintained. Analyze that your backup process and disaster recovery are functioning. Create a comprehensive backup, and verify that all data was successfully backed up prior to decommissioning.

6. Wipe Data

If you are planning to utilize data erasure software, this should be done while the server is still within its rack. Be sure to pursue all instructions from your chosen data wipe tool. The primary benefit of data wiping is that erased data is unrecoverable. Additionally, wiping data is a more environmentally friendly option than physically destroying the hardware.

7. Unplug

Disconnect all the servers from the network, and then remove all access control lists and firewalls. These processes can be quite complicated for your greater network, so be sure to work with qualified partners that can assist with each step.

8. Cut Power and Remove servers

Power down the server and remove it from its rack.

9. Destroy Server

If you have chosen to renounce the use of data wiping software, you will need to physically destroy the storage systems of your server via shredding, degaussing, or another authorized method of destruction. It will be profitable to work with an experienced ITAD for this process. Be sure to keep detailed, proper records of the destruction process and ensure a certificate of destruction has been issued.

10. Pack and Remove

Now it is the time to place the server on a pallet and remove it from your facility. This can be done in a few ways depending on your plan for the server. Your company could reuse the equipment, sell it, or dispose of it in some other fashion

11. Coordinate with Other Departments

Connect to every department within your company that needs to be kept in the loop about the decommissioning process. While this server decommissioning checklist only features the high-level steps. Be sure to reference this server decommissioning checklist throughout your planning and strategy phases to help you develop realistic timelines and budgets.

As you begin planning and identifying your necessary service providers, choose partners that have expertise in multiple aspects of server decommissioning.