Q: Recently found an old iPod touch, 2nd Gen, Software Version 3.1.1 and i cannot update the software. It says, "The iPod software update server could not be contacted". What do i need to do?

The iPod Touch 2nd gen can go to iOS 4.2.1 but you have to update using iTunes on your computer, are you doing that?

Are you sure this is a second gen Touch and not a first?

The first gen can only go to 3.1.1 and the second gen to 4.2.1.

You might also work through http://support.apple.com/kb/TS1813 and see it that helps.  Also try completely powering down and powering up your router so you get a fresh IP address, that sometimes helps.

Update Server

Try:

- Powering off and then back on your router.

- iTunes for Windows: iTunes cannot contact the iPhone, iPad, or iPod software update server

- Change the DNS to either Google's or Open DNS servers

Public DNS — Google Developers

OpenDNS IP Addresses

- For one user uninstalling/reinstalling iTunes resolved the problem

- Try on another computer/network

- Wait if it is an Apple problem

If your iPod does NOT have volume buttons on the upper left edge and does not have an internal speaker it is a 1G