Reference number: CH000614

How do I find old software?

Issue:

How do I find old software?

Additional information:

Most of the software programs, utilities, operating systems, and games are only sold for a few years and then phased out by the developer and/or reseller because of more up-to-date programs, compatibility issues, and/or the lack of sells. When this is done it can make it very difficult for users to find and buy older software programs they still wish to purchase.

As mentioned above some software is no longer sold because of it's compatibility with new operating systems. If you are trying to get an old game to work you may also want to review document CH000587.

Answers:

Below is a listing of different methods of how users can find older software programs, operating systems, utilities, and games that they still may wish to purchase and/or use on their computer.

Internet Search

Try performing searches for the name of the program you are attempting to locate, often there are many obscure software resellers that still sell old and/or out-of-date software. Click here to open a search with Google and Amazon, two of the most likely places to find many programs.

Online Auctions

Online auctions such as eBay are a great resource to locate old software and old software documentation. Many users who no longer use their software will auction their software on these sites and unless in high-demand you can usually pick up a program for a very reasonable price.

A listing of online auctions can be found on our online auction dictionary definition page.

Company

Some companies may still have copies of their programs that can be shipped to customers. If the company and/or developer of your software program is still in business try contacting the company to see if a copy of the program can be purchased and/or any other company that may still sell the program.

A listing of companies and developers and their contact information can be found through our company support page.

Abandonware

Software that is no longer able to be purchased, is no longer supported by a company, company is no longer in business, or is several years old is often considered abandoned. There are several sites that have been specifically setup to enable users to download any software considered abandoned. If you wish to find such sites search for "abandonware" on any popular search engine.

See Computer Hope's policy on abandonware on our underground page.