Answer:
Users are urged to review BENTLEY's SUPPORT POLICY for understanding the implications of utilizing older software versions.
If a software version does not appear in the available download list, it indicates that it has been archived. A more recent version of the software may now be accessible. Thus links to the older, outdated versions have been removed from the current listing.
There may be several reasons why a user or company might choose to utilize an older version of an application rather than upgrading to the latest version, which offers new features (see release notes) and resolves existing known issues. One of the benefits of using AutoPIPE is the ability to open models created in previous versions and allows users to save models back to an earlier model format. Furthermore, the latest software incorporates newer Piping Code versions while retaining most of legacy codes added to the program over the years that may be necessary for project purposes. Bentley advises project documentation specify the required piping code and year for analysis rather than focusing solely on the software name and version number.
Using earlier software versions may expose users to security vulnerabilities inherent in the software and pose risks concerning legal compliance to Bentley. Consequently, the distribution of older versions is considered an exceptional situation and is tightly regulated to ensure the mitigation of liability and adherence to record-keeping protocols.
If you wish to still pursue using the older version, please use the following procedure:
a. Submit a Bentley Case (note, specify Brand = AutoPIPE or OpenPlant, and corresponding product) requesting a particular version of the software name and eight-digit number. Don't forget to include a thorough explanation of your inability to use the most recent program version (explanation should be more than just project requirements, what advantage does the older software have over the latest version?).
b. Bentley Technical Support will assess the request for obsolete software and adhere to our corporate procedures.
c. Once the internal process and evaluation are complete, the user will be advised of the management's decision to distribute the outdated software.
In the event that a download link is sent to the user, the user will acknowledge the following disclaimer:
***Archived Software Disclaimer***
This software version ("Product") is not the most recent (latest) version. Bentley always recommends using the latest version.
By downloading the Product, you/your company ("Company") expressly acknowledge that by deploying and using the Product that it includes known and/or unknown vulnerabilities that may expose the Company to security breaches, data loss, system failures, or other damages and the Company acknowledges that using out-of-date software creates a significant risk for its business and that it is solely responsible for implementing adequate security measures, backups, and contingency plans to protect its data, systems, and operations. The Company further acknowledges that Bentley does not warrant or guarantee the performance, functionality, compatibility, security, or suitability of the Product for any purpose.
Once more, Bentley always recommends using the latest version.
See Also
How do I download, install, and license AutoPIPE?