Save that outdated desktop or laptop! You can build your own security camera, experiment with a new operating system, convert an old gaming PC into a NAS, and do a lot more with a little bit more work.
During the pandemic, as more people switched to working from home, there was an increase in demand for PCs. As a result, many outdated PCs were left unattended and unutilized. Most likely, they are still occupying space.
An old PC might entice you to just throw it away. If the laptop or desktop was manufactured in the past ten years, you might be amazed at how much useful life it still has for you or other people.
You might need to make a few minor changes; for example, upgrading to a larger storage drive and more RAM could help with some—okay, probably all—of these projects. Often, in order to install software on that old junker, the PC needs to be able to access the internet and/or access software that has been written to a USB flash drive. These are but a handful of the choices.
1. Try Out a New, Lighter Operating System:
Flex ChromeOS
Do you enjoy attempting new things? Nothing makes an outdated PC feel more modern than a newly installed operating system; even an extremely ancient computer will seem brand-new.
The majority of alternative operating systems, or “OSes” (read: neither Windows nor macOS), are built on the Linux kernel and are available in a number of flavors known as “distros.” Notable variants include Ubuntu, Mint, elementary OS, and Manjaro. There are interfaces that resemble Windows, and they are included with software programs like LibreOffice, which is an open-source, free alternative to Microsoft Office. Most function well on computers with 4GB of RAM or more, but make sure to review the specs.
Another thing you might want to attempt is building your own Chromebook. Typically, it’s a laptop running Google Chrome OS, which puts the Chrome browser at the heart of the system together with Google Cloud storage and services. To simulate a Chromebook, you may download and install Chrome OS Flex on outdated PCs or Macs. It can even be used as a portable flash drive.
2. Utilize its Media Features:
There’s a good chance you have hours’ worth of podcasts, and films locally saved, even if you’re addicted to streaming services. And you wish to have access to everything on phones, tablets, PCs, and gaming consoles. You’ll need a media server for that.
“Theater software” like Kodi enables this. Install the server software on any Linux, Windows, macOS, or jailbroken iOS, Android, or Raspberry Pi device. “Remote control” apps are available for iOS or Android users who don’t want to go broke(n).
Most of the characteristics of Plex (above) are similar. Installation of the server software is possible on Windows, macOS, Linux, FreeBSD, and even NAS devices. You may find the playback software on almost any gadget you can think of. Plex even provides several options for live TV.
Install server software on your old PC after a fresh OS install, and use the machine only for media playback to achieve the greatest performance.
3. Convert an Old Computer to a NAS Home Server:
A server for your home or small business network that stores files you share with every PC on the network (or outside, via the internet) is known as a network-attached storage device. Prices range from hundreds to a pittance. However, you don’t need to purchase a NAS if you already own an old PC with enough of storage. Create one. Software for accomplishing just that is readily accessible and is usually free or open-source. XigmaNAS, FileCloud, TrueNAS Core, Rockstor, and other services can integrate your outdated PC into the core of your own cloud.
4. Construct a machine that is anonymous:
Everyone is concerned about privacy, and rightfully so. Your desktop computer can be transformed into a more private workstation for online browsing using a variety of technologies. However, if your outdated computer needs some TLC, The Amnesic Incognito Live System (TAILS) can transform it into a dedicated privacy PC.
TAILS, which is portable and runs on a USB flash drive, SD card, or DVD, is based on the Debian Linux distribution. It uses the Tor network to reroute your requests and internet traffic. Every integrated application, including the email program, instant messaging client, office suite, and, of course, the browser, is already set up for security. Whonix and Qubes OS are two more Linux distributions that prioritize anonymity and privacy.
5. Turn on hotspot:
Restricted access to a wireless network is the worst. Thus, use that outdated computer to share a Wi-Fi internet connection as a hotspot. Of course, you’ll need a PC that can connect to WiFi.
It’s preferable to leave this work to a router, to be honest. I mean, that’s the whole point of routers. However, Connectify Hotspot makes it possible to connect using an outdated PC. Run Ethernet to the laptop if your router is already Wi-Fi enabled. Then, use Connectify to set up a secondary network on the same internet backhaul connection. For one Windows-based PC, Connectify Hotspot Pro is presently available for $14.99 for lifetime access; the firm gives a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Without additional software, you may use Windows to transform your computer into a hotspot that shares your home internet.
6. Build a Starter Computer for Your Faraway Relatives:
Family Account creation
Everybody knows someone in their family who is technologically incapable. Even worse, they beg your assistance. Every single time. You could not even reside in the same nation or state! What to do when troubleshooting over the phone or even over video chat gives you a headache?
Grab your old laptop, blow out the disk, and install Windows again. After that, lock it down to prevent the recipient from installing any software without your consent. Click Add Someone after selecting Accounts > Family under Settings. Creating an account for yourself as the Administrator and a Standard User for your loved one, who is unable to change settings significantly, is the aim.
Adjust the account’s User Account Control (open it by typing UAC into the Start menu). The Standard User can behave like an Admin if UAC is disabled. Adjust the volume; if you do it too much, the alerts may become bothersome. You must determine the ideal ratio.
Take them literally as a child. You can add a child by selecting Add Someone. Provide your phone number for password backups in case your user (child or not) forgets. (Even the child account needs an email invite for some reason, but you can create a quick one for them on Outlook.com). You’re almost done if you turn off the promos and advertisements.
To see a summary of the activities of all the members on your Microsoft Account, go to account.microsoft.com/family. You may choose which games and apps to prohibit, block websites, and do a lot more here.
Do you want to keep it locked down? Configure the account to have Assigned Access enabled, which launches Windows in Kiosk Mode, similar to what happens when you come across a public computer with a single point of access. For instance, restrict the user account’s access to a single browser. While somewhat restrictive, that is preferable to having to respond to incessant tech support inquiries.
Install a remote-control app like TeamViewer or configure the computer to use Microsoft Remote Desktop Connection (if compatible) before you ship that PC off to live with your loved one so you can periodically take control of it to make upgrades. Even better, utilize it to demonstrate fundamental operations to your family on their own screen. Make restore points when using the computer remotely so you can fix it later if something goes wrong.
7. Prepare a Kitchen or Guest PC:
The amount of space your old computer takes up may determine whether it’s worth keeping for special occasions only, such as when you need to look up a recipe in the kitchen or need to check something up for overnight guests. For this arrangement, a lightweight Linux distribution like Zorin might be useful because it closely resembles the appearance of both Windows and macOS and has a low learning curve.
8. Create a Tablet:
Do you want to put your insane DIY talents to the test? Disassemble a struggling laptop and turn it into a “tablet.” Depending on the setup, you won’t be able to use a touch screen. You’ll usually still need to tie the keyboard in some manner to the screen in order for it to retain its intelligence. You can find numerous how-to videos on the website Instructables, one of which demonstrates how to convert any screen into a touch screen. To be honest, buying a tablet alone is certainly easier and less expensive, but what fun is that?
9. Boost the Performance of That Computer to 11:
This one’s for the string-strummers only: convert that PC that’s about to be thrown away into a guitar amplifier. To connect a guitar to a PC via a USB connection, you’ll need Guitar Rig, an amplifier modeling program, and a specific cable (Ubisoft’s Rocksmith+ Real Tone Cable is compatible with both Windows and macOS PCs and game consoles). The Pro version includes all the distortion effects and 21 guitar and bass amplifier emulations for $199.
10. Make Your Own Security Camera:
Use that extra eyeball if the webcam on your old laptop (which most of them do) is integrated, or if you have a spare webcam you can attach. Download a copy of Agent DVR from iSpy and perform a system reinstall. You don’t need to mess with your router’s settings to access your camera(s) using a web interface in the browser after it’s configured.
Although setting up a PC as your camera is not as elegant as purchasing one of our best home security cameras, it is far less expensive because this is available for free for local, personal use. This may be done with a smartphone as well.
11. Play Retro Video Games:
Older PCs can usually run older games, and many PC ports of classic titles are enjoyable nostalgia trips. You will be able to convert an outdated PC into a dedicated gaming system with a clean Windows installation. Where can I find ancient games? Though there’s always Steam, GOG.com has a ton as well. These six websites allow you to download classic PC games.
To get started with truly old game titles on a PC or Mac, grab an emulator for old systems like the Nintendo 64. If you run into issues, see How to Run Old Games on Your Modern PC.
12. Participate in CPU Cycles:
Even the ugliest, oldest PC has a ton of processing power that sits around unutilized. That capability can be put to good use in distributed computing projects, where software connects a vast number of internet-connected PCs to collaborate on computationally enormous issues.
For instance, you’ve undoubtedly heard of the 1990s distributed computer project SETI@home, or the Search for Extra-Terrestrial Intelligence. It originated at Berkeley and analyzed signals from space using unpaid PCs. We no longer need to assist SETI, but we might with other programs.
Check out BOINC, the foundation for a number of projects that you can select from. Alternatively, by mimicking protein dynamics, Folding@Home can aid researchers in their quest to understand more about the COVID-19 virus and other viruses. As a citizen scientist, set it up on an outdated PC and leave it running in the background.
13. Hold It for Zoom:
One purpose of a laptop or desktop computer could be video conferencing. Installing the OS from scratch will solve the issue. Zoom and Google Meet are two services that are compatible with every browser. FaceTime is another tool that Mac users can utilize to communicate with iOS or iPad users. In either case, you have instant access to everyone’s face. However, you should save it on that outdated computer and use the newer one for actual work.
14. Destroy it in order to rebuild it:
Lovely Lights flickering
Take advantage of the chance to learn about PC construction if you have an outdated desktop or mini-tower PC. So disassemble it. Reassemble it. Check to see whether it still functions, then try to determine why. Even better, get a new motherboard and a few other parts to transform your outdated machine into something brand-new and amazing. Even though you’ll only be saving $100 by using an old chassis instead of purchasing a new case, the learning process will still be worthwhile. See our series Rigged Up for more on building PCs.
15. Get Some Games Ready:
Upgrade your home with Minecraft
There’s more to games than just playing them; you can also serve them. You can set up a multiplayer area especially for you and your pals using a gaming server. The host server doesn’t need to be very fancy because the server only keeps track of player activity and locations. Players’ local client systems handle serving up graphics. If an old PC can handle being turned on and networked full-time, that’s the ideal job for it. Playing on the same network in the same place makes things easier, but if you want to work remotely, your PC could need a dedicated static IP address.
It is most likely best to utilize a Linux distribution on your game-server computer. Next, obtain the specific server software for the concerned game. DOTA 2, Ragnarok, Counter-Strike Global Offensive, and, for younger players, Minecraft are a few games that facilitate this.
This isn’t a beginner project, but if it means they can spend a bit more time in front of the computer instead of using that old junker PC, then enthusiastic gamers of any age will gladly become network engineers overnight.
16. Construct a Digital Picture Frame:
This one requires figuring out how to install a display on the wall, which is simple enough with a VESA mount, and possibly concealing the PC, which could be difficult with a large tower. However, if you have the correct configuration, it’s simple: after a fresh OS install, load up the disk with pictures and use some software to see them.
This effectively turns your digital memories into a screensaver that runs continuously. Easy-to-use software such as gPhotoShow Pro can even access Google Photos, so as long as the PC is still connected to the internet via Wi-Fi, the library of digital photos on display will keep expanding. In the event that you choose to create a wall entirely composed of panels, it can even play videos and support many monitors.
17. Transform Computers Into Works of Art:
Consider cannibalizing the PC for another use if you are unable to come up with anything worthwhile to do with it. A search for “computer repurposed” on Pinterest yields some unusual ideas. Some suggestions for repurposing old PC cases include creating an aquarium, a plant terrarium, or even a dwelling for your pet. Give your favorite jeweler all the internal components, such as the motherboard and RAM, that you were going to discard, and see what they can create with the leftover parts.
On Etsy, people profit greatly from that kind of thing. Using recycled circuit boards, artisans create a wide range of items, such as laser-engraved wall hangings, pencil boxes, pens, and wedding rings. The imagination of the appropriate artist knows no bounds; that artist maybe you.
7 Green Projects to Try with Old Computers in 2024:
It’s not uncommon for IT enthusiasts and PC gamers to accumulate old computers and PC parts over time. A few of them possess the skill to construct new systems using such components and incorporate them into their gaming arsenal. But most people aren’t aware of how obsolete laptops can contribute to a greener environment or be put to better use.
Only Brits generate almost 1.8 million tonnes of e-waste annually. We will soon run out of space if landfill collection continues at its current rate. Additionally harmful to the environment, e-waste needs to be disposed of safely and sustainably through the recycling of electronic devices, the reuse of outdated computers, and other eco-friendly practices.
Not even a large number of people in the UK sell unwanted technology. 20.7 million functional but underutilized modern electrical devices are stockpiled in UK homes as of 2022. Their potential value was £5.63 billion.
Old Computer and Monitor Uses:
To preserve the security of our planet, it is our primary responsibility as responsible citizens to choose computer and IT recycling. You can get help from a trustworthy UK-based computer recycling firm to manage your IT assets securely. In the UK, there are about 800 registered IT disposal businesses.
This will protect the environment from a ton of contaminants in addition to relieving you of obsolete technology and PCs. Concerns about security also prevent you from simply discarding your outdated computers. Secure data destruction services are essential for this reason.
Old computers can be used for a lot more beneficial purposes, though. When it comes to handling your outdated PC and replacement parts, we have put up a list of enjoyable projects to complete. Making the decision on what to do with your outdated system other than discarding it is not hard to accomplish with a little time and drive.
Now let’s get started.
1. Convert your outdated PC to a media center:
Making an old computer system into a media box is the simplest method to use it. Clear some space on your desk or in your room, and turn that old PC into a media box.
An outdated PC can be readily transformed into a home server that can distribute files to other household systems. It can also be kept for uninterrupted file downloads.
For a home theater where you can stream movies and binge-watch your favorite TV series, an outdated computer works very well. One of the best uses for outdated computers is a media box; you don’t even need to worry about power because it doesn’t need much to work.
How can you use your outdated PC as a media server at home?
The following detailed instructions will help you repurpose obsolete computers to create a home media server:
- Go to the Control Panel and use the search box to look up “Media.”
- Control Panel: Select the media streaming choices found in the Network and Sharing Center by clicking on them.
- Click OK after selecting Turn on media streaming.
- Media Streaming Options: Click OK after choosing your preferred media streaming settings for PCs and other devices.
Your computer is now ready, and any device connected to your local network can access the contents on it.
Installing third-party applications on a home media server
One typical usage for an outdated computer is as a media server, and there are several third-party programs available for this purpose. These are the top two programs for maximizing the potential of outdated PCs.
Kodi TV: For those seeking a customized computer, Kodi is completely free and open-source software. KODI TVPlex: You can quickly download the Plex media server onto your outdated PC and log in to get started. It’s an excellent program for experienced users and is simple to customize. Several plans are available for you to select from based on your needs.
2. Utilize your outdated computer as a standby:
These are some useful applications for outdated computers if you’re wondering what to do with them. Make a backup of all of your crucial information from your outdated PCs to free up space on the new ones. You won’t have to be concerned about losing it in this manner. When the cloud’s capacity is reached and USBs start to pile up in drawers, storing outdated data might become daunting.
Reusing your old PC as a backup device and storing your data safely there is preferable to stockpiling CDs and USBs for data storage. Not only will this be simpler to access, but all of your data will be in one location, saving you the trouble of searching for the correct USB.
Try these creative applications for outdated PCs before choosing to discard them to help the environment avoid the already growing problem of electronic waste.
Do you own a dated Windows computer? Here are some more ways to transfer your data to your old machines or create backups of it.
3. Keep a record of your favorite programs:
How many times have you been unable to watch your favorite TV show because you were unavailable and the channel doesn’t provide catch-up programming? For a billion times, we have.
If we had a gadget that could automatically record our favorite shows, wouldn’t that be amazing? Let us tell you, it is doable, but it requires outdated computers.
Once the specifications are in place, the system needs to be set to record at a specific time. Following recording, you have the option of watching the shows on the old PC or moving them to the TV.
How can you make a DVR out of your old computer?
Making a DVR out of an old computer can be a smart idea if you’re looking for new uses for them. You can set up your old PC as the home’s TV show recorder. Installing a TV tuner card and ensuring your processor runs at roughly 700MHz should be all that is required. On your outdated PC, you can stream TV series and movies using a unique cloud DVR application.
4. Convert your outdated PC to a TV:
There might not be enough room in your home for a TV if you rent a small flat and have dedicated all of the fancy systems to your gaming servers.
Every so often, there’s nothing better than a little live television broadcast. That means there’s a way to sate that hunger. Using an old PC as a TV is one of its better uses.
You can turn your old PC into a TV on your own without hiring an IT specialist. All you need to get it to operate is an external TV tuner. Additionally, you may quickly get a functioning TV with an aerial wire and a VGA cable.
5. Establish a gaming server:
A gaming server is required for online multiplayer gamers in order to add more players. An outdated computer can be used to construct a gaming server, among other things. A web server and a video game server are comparable. The processing of requests from a game client instead of a webpage is the only distinction. But the fundamental procedure is pretty much the same, i.e.,
- Acceptance of the request
- handling the request
- replying to the request with a message
Since gaming servers merely manage web traffic, they don’t actually require a powerful CPU or a high-end 3D card, therefore old PCs work well for this kind of work. By repurposing your old computer and turning it into a dedicated game server, you can prevent lag in games and other similar problems.
6. An enthusiast for vintage video games:
Do you recall the simpler times when using a computer meant only playing Minesweeper and using Paint? Yes, those were the true days.
We still play old-school video games like Mortal Kombat and Tekken, even though many of you may have outgrown them. Because those older games were made for DOS operating systems, the more recent computers can’t really run them.
For individuals who yearn for the Tekken era, antique computers hold great value. Set aside a dated computer system to run DOS and continue to enjoy your beloved 80s games. Is there a more effective way to utilize outdated computers?
7. Create external hard disks:
Old computers can be used for a variety of purposes, and there’s bound to be one that appeals to you. Even if the system isn’t operating as a whole, it still isn’t worth trashing. How? Because it’s easy to recycle and repurpose its spare parts.
Reusing components of obsolete computers, including the hard drive, is one of the most popular uses for them. It may be quickly converted into an external hard drive by following a straightforward process, giving you more room to store your stuff.
Furthermore, it is possible to convert a DVD drive into an external DVD drive. Graphic cards can also be used in a different way if the other system is compatible with the previous version.
Thus, getting in touch with a computer recycling London company is usually a good idea, but you may also go through a system and see what pieces you can use for your projects. The residual components can always be sent for secure computer destruction.
