If you manage to set up the software and cable, follow these practices to avoid "bricking" (permanently breaking) the radio:
Always ensure you are authorized to use the frequencies you are programming. Transmitting on restricted or unlicensed frequencies can result in significant fines. Quality Two-Way Radios CE44 v.1.08 programming software - Radioscanner.Ru vertex standard vx180 programming software free
Customize what the side buttons do (e.g., Toggle Monitor, Scan, or High/Low power). 6. Write to Radio If you manage to set up the software
To keep the radio quiet when there is no signal. That is your safest bet for a free, unaltered version
Search for "VX-180 CE24 software archive.org" – The Internet Archive sometimes has preserved copies of old radio software CDs. That is your safest bet for a free, unaltered version.
When you search for "free" software, you will find three types of sources. Here is the reality of each.