Large Scale Server Decommissioning - A Case Study

19/03/2025 – 3 minute read

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This case study showcases multi-location server decommissioning at scale for a global client - provided by SK Tes.

A global SaaS company selected SK Tes for its global reach, proven compliance credentials, and ability to deliver complex data center services at scale. This case study explores how SK Tes delivered a structured end-to-end decommissioning and data destruction program tailored to the client’s operational, security, and reporting requirements.

Database storage icon

80,000+

data-bearing media shredded on-site with full reconciliation

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400+

server racks removed across two sites within less than 3 weeks on each site

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10,000 sq ft

of data center space fully decommissioned and handed back for site readiness.

Decommissioning solution comprised three integrated workstreams:

The client had these key requirements for data center decommissioning project:

Certified on site media shredding

Secure, certified on site destruction of more than 80,000 data-bearing assets, processed to defined particle sizes of 15 mm for HDDs and 6 mm for SSDs, including circuit boards. Our mobile shredding units deliver an average throughput of up to 2,000 drives per day across mixed media types. All shredding is performed against a client-provided serial number list, with full reconciliation and documented proof of destruction.

Data center decommissioning in live environments

Removal of fully populated racks from live data center environments, with each rack safely disconnected from main power, stabilization feet retracted, and units moved using floor protection systems to safeguard facility surfaces. More than 400 racks were removed across two sites, with each site completed in under three weeks.

Secure transport, processing and value recovery

Racks were transported to the SK Tes facility for disassembly, with parent units registered and tracked upon receipt. IT equipment was then assessed and prepared for resale on the client’s behalf, supporting value recovery objectives.

Dedicated, client-focused decommissioning solution provided by SK Tes

SK Tes teams worked closely with client stakeholders throughout the program, maintaining consistent communication, rigorous security controls, and full operational transparency. Complete decommission and site readiness for handback of two 5,000 sq ft data centers. Collections structured in 20 rack batches to accelerate downstream processing and reporting.

Results and Benefits Delivered 

With SK Tes, the client successfully completed a large-scale data center decommissioning project, meeting strict security, operational efficiency, environmental, ESG, and multi-site global management requirements. 

server decommissioning at scale - case study SK tes 

Trust SK Tes for server decommissioning and data center projects

SK Tes is a single-source service provider for the full decommissioning of data center equipment. Engaging with SK Tes meant that this client could rely on to undertake enterprise decommissioning at scale in live environments with certified data destruction, removal, reuse, and recycling of their IT equipment - all while adhering to client's requirements.

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Data center decommissioning at scale

SK Tes supports enterprises with global data decommissioning for colocation, hyperscale, and edge environments, delivering secure, compliant, and seamless services - all while adhering to your unique project needs.

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