Can I Use Company Tools for Personal Side Projects?Can I Use Company Tools for Personal Side Projects?

[Root] Access is an advice column for questions about IT issues, career moves, and workplace concerns.

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Dear [Root] Access,

I’ve always been a bit of a side-project enthusiast and lately been itching to dive into one outside of work. It’s nothing too wild—just a way to sharpen my skills and explore new ideas. The problem is that some of the tools I use for work would be perfect for this project. Using them would save time, effort, and money compared to setting up everything from scratch on my own.

I asked a few colleagues about their opinions on using company tech for personal projects. Their responses were mixed. Some said it’s fine only if you don’t share the tools or use company data. Others said it was unethical and a career-ender, citing security concerns, intellectual property issues, and the perception of misusing company resources.

I’m not sold on either side. What’s your take? Is it ever okay to use company tech for side projects, or is it something you should avoid altogether?

—Just Trying to Be Resourceful

Dear Just Trying to Be Resourceful,

Many of the greatest technical innovations are born from tinkering during free time. Putting aside your main question, you’re honing your skills and investing in yourself—that on its own is worth celebrating. 

Related:IT Career Trends and Predictions 2025 From Industry Insiders

I appreciate the dilemma you’re in. I’ll give you a short answer and a long answer.

The short answer: It depends.

The long answer: The future of work isn’t about sticking to monotonous 40-hour weeks with the same employer. Many of us take on side projects or second jobs to bolster our income or add meaning to our lives. In fact, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported in November 2024 that over 8.7 million people hold multiple jobs. Moreover, innovative workplaces recognize that employees with side hustles are highly valuable, as the skills they develop in their free time often enhance their work performance. I’ll admit I’m biased: I work full time and write freelance articles using my company’s laptop. 

However, as you’ve pointed out, not every employer has evolved enough to appreciate this. Your first step is to understand your employer’s official expectations. Start by reviewing the contract you signed when you were hired. What does it say about “non-competes,” the use of company tools, and intellectual property? Next, search your internal documentation, whether it’s via a formal intranet or a few public documents on a shared drive. This might give you all the answers you need. However, if it doesn't, proceed with caution. If you ask HR directly about using work tools for personal projects, expect the answer to be “no.” 

Related:Should You Learn to Code in the Age of AI? Pros and Cons

An organization with progressive policies, like flexible schedules or inclusive benefits, is more likely to be neutral or even value your industriousness. On the other hand, an organization that tracks your weekly work hours or conducts annual layoffs may not respond kindly to side projects, especially if they involve using company tools.

Regardless of the tools at your disposal, keep up the good work of growing your skills and pursuing your interests. Whether your employer values them or not, you’ll still reap the benefits of your personal growth.

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