How Do I Start Buying My First Piece of Preowned Infrastructure Hardware?

1. Define Your Requirements

● Start by understanding exactly what you need:

⁃ Workload type (e.g., virtualization, storage-heavy, network throughput)

⁃ Performance targets (CPU, RAM, IOPS, throughput)

⁃ Form factor constraints (rack size, power usage, compatibility)

Tip: Reference the models currently in use—matching or standardizing simplifies integration and gives you confidence in compatibility.

2. Identify Trusted Sellers

● Look for reputable, certified vendors who specialize in refurbished enterprise IT. Good vendors will offer:

⁃ Detailed specs & test reports

⁃ Clear warranty terms

⁃ DOA (dead on arrival) replacement guarantees

3. Engage with a Sales Rep or Broker

● This is critical. They can:

⁃ Recommend alternatives based on your goals

⁃ Help identify where infrastructure can benefit most from preowned

⁃ Verify firmware levels and compatibility with existing systems

4. Verify Hardware Condition

● Preowned hardware comes in various grades:

⁃ Refurbished: Cleaned, tested, faulty parts (if any) replaced. Great for first-time buyers

⁃ Used / As-is: Lower cost, but higher risk

⁃ New open box: Unused but no OEM support—can be a great deal

5. Ensure Warranty & Support Options

● Clarify:

⁃ Is warranty included and what are your warranty terms?

⁃ Can you extend support via Third-Party Maintenance (TPM)?

⁃ Do you offer advance replacement or onsite spares?

Many TPM providers support for preowned hardware, long after OEMs have announced their EOL date.

6. Handle Licensing & Compliance

● For servers: OS and hypervisor licenses (e.g., Windows Server, VMware) often aren’t included

● For networking gear: Check if smart licensing or subscriptions are needed (e.g., Cisco SmartNet alternatives)

● Ensure the hardware has been de-registered (e.g. unclaiming Meraki access points) by the previous owner

7. Consider Sustainability & ESG Reporting

● Preowned purchases can support your organization’s green IT initiatives

● Ask for CO₂ offset metrics

● Request documentation for ESG or CSR reporting

Conclusion

In today's dynamic and budget-conscious IT landscape, forward-thinking IT leaders should strongly consider the strategic advantage of acquiring pre-owned enterprise hardware. Beyond the immediate and often substantial cost savings—which can free up significant capital for innovation and other critical projects—pre-owned equipment frequently offers an ideal solution for organizations seeking to extend the life of stable, proven technologies without incurring the premium of new purchases.

Furthermore, opting for pre-owned often translates to faster delivery times compared to new equipment orders, and it inherently supports sustainability initiatives by extending the useful life of existing resources and reducing electronic waste, aligning with growing corporate social responsibility goals.

Many before you are active buyers of preowned. Start small, if you like.