17 Things You Can Do with an Old Computer

In today’s world, with a computer processing speed exceeding 2GHz available for under $1,000, what purpose does a Pentium II 300MHz computer serve? The answer depends on whether you’re willing to experiment, learn, entertain yourself, or contribute to environmental protection.

How to Make Your Old Computer Useful

In this article, we will discuss various ways you can utilize your old computer. Let’s start with the “good” options for an old PC. Try to find the method that suits you best.

1. Gift It

Nothing depreciates faster than a computer. If you no longer need your old computer, consider giving it to a friend in need or donating it to charity. You can also reach out to PC donation programs from computer manufacturers; this is definitely a worthwhile endeavor.

2. Upgrade It

Invest a little money to upgrade the hard drive and RAM. This way, you can continue using your old machine.

3. Turn It into a Firewall

Your modem may already have firewall capabilities, but for added security, you can also turn your old computer into a dedicated firewall.

4. Try Linux

You’ve probably heard of the free, open-source operating system Linux for PCs. You may have considered trying it out as it has been frequently mentioned as an alternative to Windows. However, you’re concerned about whether installing this operating system would affect your new computer system. Why not try installing it on your old computer?

Linux supports a wide range of older hardware quite well. In fact, sometimes older hardware is better supported by Linux than new hardware. There are various versions of Linux, but Debian Linux (http://www.debian.org) is often regarded as the best for older computers that might run a bit slow. Additionally, this version of Linux provides ample resources for beginners. If your old PC has a speed exceeding 300MHz, you might consider using Mandrake Linux (http://www.mandriva.com/)… This is considered one of the most user-friendly and polished versions of Linux.

5. Turn It into a Print, File Sharing, or Web Server

If your old computer is not too slow and meets the requirements, you can easily turn it into a server.

If you have multiple printers connected to separate PCs, consider connecting those printers to your old PC and setting up a network system for the new PCs. You’ll have a dedicated print server that is very convenient for everyone.

Similarly, you can turn your old PC into a file server for storing and sharing documents or MP3 files. Furthermore, it can serve as a place to back up your essential documents.

If you have a broadband internet connection along with a home router and permission from your service provider, you can also turn your old PC into a web server. This could be an excellent opportunity for you to learn more about the web or programming languages.

6. Create a Media Server

You can also convert your old computer into a media server. This is quite simple. Store movies and music on the computer, then connect it to your home entertainment system, allowing you to enjoy music and films on your television.

7. Turn It into a TiVo

Use free TiVo programs like MythTV to transform your computer into a digital video recorder.

8. Learn Networking

With two computers at hand, you can try setting up a LAN. All versions of Windows since Windows 95 come equipped with networking features, so you won’t need additional software. For hardware, you’ll need an Ethernet card (network card), network cables, a hub, or a switch.

You can find plenty of information about setting up a LAN in Windows Help across various websites. Some of these sites include http://www.wown.com, http://www.tunisiadaily.com/answers/networking.html, or http://www.pcmag.com/networking.

Using your computer to learn the basics of networking is fantastic, as it will make the remaining tasks we discuss much easier and more effective if your old computer is network-connected.

9. Learn About Hardware

Have you ever wondered how the CPU connects to the motherboard? Are you sure you know how to remove the hard drive? Do you want to practice installing and uninstalling RAM sticks? An old PC is a great hands-on tool for PC maintenance and upgrades. Keep it around to learn until you’re brave enough to take a screwdriver to your new PC.

10. Sell Spare Parts

Even if your computer is old, if it still works well, components like the motherboard, graphics card, hard drive, network card, and other parts can still hold some value. You can sell these components. Just make sure to provide complete information about the device type and the FCC ID on the device when you list them for sale.

11. Create a “Fish Tank”

One creative way to repurpose old computers—especially older Apple Macintosh models—is to transform them into fish tanks, often referred to as Macquariums. Here, we are literally talking about a fish tank placed inside a computer case. The effect is quite surprising, and why not try an aquarium-themed screensaver? To learn how to turn an old Macintosh into a fish tank, check out this link: http://www.lowendmac.com/compact/macquarium.shtml. You’ll be amazed.

12. Recycle

If none of the above options excite you about your old PC, don’t just throw it away. The Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition (http://www.svtc.org) states that PC components contain many toxic substances like cadmium, barium, and mercury. Sometimes recycling PCs can even be done for free. Check if there are any PC recycling facilities near you. Help protect the environment.

13. Torrent Downloading

Another useful way to utilize your old computer is to turn it into a torrent downloading station.

14. “Donate” Network Connectivity to Tor

Tor is a project that allows individuals to “donate” their network connections to people worldwide for the purpose of anonymity. Those who need to use this connection often live in countries with restricted internet access or are banned from accessing certain websites.