Reviving Old Tech: 17 Ways to Give Your Old PCs a New Life
Just over three in ten (31%) US adults hold onto old devices due to the fact that they are unsure what to do with them, according to a recent survey. Rather than letting that old PC gather dust, there are numerous ways to repurpose it, extending its usefulness and potentially saving you money. From lightweight operating systems to home server solutions, here’s how to breathe new life into your aging hardware.
1. Experiment With a New, Lighter OS
Even an older computer can feel rejuvenated with a fresh operating system. Many alternatives to Windows and macOS are based on Linux, available in various distributions (distros) like Ubuntu, Mint, elementary OS, and Manjaro. These often offer interfaces similar to Windows and include software packages like LibreOffice, a free alternative to Microsoft Office. Most function well on PCs with 4GB of RAM or more, but it’s essential to check the specifications. Alternatively, consider ChromeOS Flex, which can be downloaded and installed onto older PCs or Macs to mimic a Chromebook, even running from a USB flash drive.
2. Create a Media Server
Even if you’re a streaming enthusiast, you likely have locally stored music, podcasts, and videos. Software like Kodi and Plex allows you to create a media server, accessible on PCs, game consoles, tablets, and phones. Install the server software on a device running Linux, Windows, or macOS (Plex also works on NAS devices), and apply remote control apps on iOS or Android for access. For optimal performance, dedicate an old PC with a clean OS install solely to media serving.
3. Turn Your Old PC Into a NAS Home Server
A network-attached storage (NAS) device provides file storage and sharing across your network. While NAS devices can be purchased, you can create one using an old PC with ample storage and free, open-source software like TrueNAS Core, Rockstor, FileCloud, or XigmaNAS. This effectively creates your own personal cloud storage solution.
4. Hack Together an Anonymous PC
Privacy is a growing concern. Turn an old PC into a dedicated privacy workstation using The Amnesic Incognito Live System (Tails), based on Debian Linux. Tails runs from a USB drive, SD card, or DVD, routing internet traffic through the Tor network and preconfiguring applications for security. Whonix and Qubes OS are other privacy-focused Linux distributions.
5. Fire Up a Hotspot
Demand to share an internet connection? An old PC with Wi-Fi capability can be turned into a hotspot. While a router is generally better suited for this task, software like Connectify Hotspot (available for a one-time fee) can enable this functionality on Windows PCs. Windows also offers built-in hotspot functionality without additional software.
6. Create a Starter PC for Distant Family
Assist a less tech-savvy family member by repurposing an old laptop or desktop. Reinstall Windows and set up user accounts with restricted permissions, preventing accidental system changes. Utilize Microsoft Account’s Family Safety features to manage access, block websites, and control app usage. Remote control software like TeamViewer or Microsoft Remote Desktop Connection allows you to provide assistance remotely and create system restore points.
7. Whip Up a Guest or Kitchen PC
A lightweight Linux distro like Zorin OS can transform an old PC into a dedicated device for occasional tasks, such as displaying recipes in the kitchen or providing internet access for guests. Its Windows and macOS-like interface minimizes the learning curve.
8. ‘Make’ a Tablet
For the DIY enthusiast, an old laptop can be disassembled and converted into a makeshift tablet. While the touchscreen experience won’t match a dedicated tablet, it’s a creative project. Instructions and tutorials can be found on websites like Instructables.
9. Turn That PC Up to 11
Transform your old PC into a guitar amplifier. A USB cable (like Ubisoft’s Rocksmith+ Real Tone Cable) connects your guitar to the PC, and software like Guitar Rig provides amplifier modeling and effects.
10. Create Your Own Security Cam
Repurpose an old laptop with a webcam into a security camera. Software like Agent DVR allows you to access the camera feed via a web interface without complex router configurations. This provides a free alternative to dedicated home security cameras.
11. Go Old-School for Gaming
Older PCs can still handle older games. A fresh install of Windows and access to platforms like Steam and GOG.com can provide a dedicated gaming experience. Emulators can also run classic games on PCs and Macs.
12. Contribute CPU Cycles
Donate your PC’s idle processing power to scientific research projects through distributed computing initiatives like BOINC or Folding@Home. These projects tackle complex problems by combining the resources of many computers.
13. Save It for Zoom
Dedicate an old laptop or desktop solely to video conferencing using services like Zoom and Google Meet. This ensures a stable connection and frees up your primary computer for other tasks.
14. Tear It Down to Build It Up
Disassemble an old PC to learn about its components and how they work. This hands-on experience can be a stepping stone to building a new PC from scratch.
15. Serve Up Some Games
Turn an old PC into a game server, hosting multiplayer games for you and your friends. Linux distributions are often preferred for game servers, and dedicated server software is available for games like DOTA 2, Ragnarok, Counter Strike, and Minecraft.
16. Make a Digital Photo Frame
Transform an old PC into a digital photo frame by connecting a display and using software like gPhotoShow Pro or IrfanView to display a slideshow of your favorite photos.
17. Turn PCs Into Art
Get creative and repurpose the PC’s components into art projects. Circuit boards can be transformed into wall hangings or even jewelry by skilled artisans.