So I have the software installed but it's looking for the firmware file ~ every time I go to the uniden website and put in my model it says the only downloads are the user manual. I have the bcd325p2 that's probably 4 -5 years old, works perfectly with firmware 1.06.00 I've been fighting this all night.
OK you downloaded the file from the Uniden site ... did you run it to actually install BC VUP? If so, then when you run the program (from the Start menu) it should come up with a dialog box that asks you to pick the model from a drop-down menu:

If I pick "BCD325P2" it thinks for a second and populates the "Version" box. The only available option is "Version 1.09.12".
Are you getting that?
If not then go to this page:
BCD325P2FirmwareUpdate < UnidenMan4 < TWiki
Click on the "BC_VUP3 Firmware Updater for DMA Scanners" at the top of the page and follow the instructions to install BC_VUP3.
You have to use the program to download and install the firmware.