As life takes it course, sometimes we lose contact with old friends, relatives and even romantic partners. Thankfully--because of technology today--searching for these people over the Internet has become quite easy. Many of the resources cost nothing. Depending on the method used to locate someone, you need only a first and last name.

Gather all the information on the person you lost contact with. Write down his last known address, phone number, email address, employer, any mutual friends and their information. This will help you analyze how to find your lost friend based on the information you have.

Ask if they know of the whereabouts of your long lost friend. Gather any information they may have to help you in your search. No detail is too small. Ask about your friend's last know address, employer, marital status, any places she frequents and the like.

Use social networking websites like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn. Create an account if you don't have one and complete a search using his first and last name. Send him a friend request and a note explaining who you are. If you can't find him immediately using this method, request and add mutual friends. This will help you stay alert on who's friends with your friends, which will help heighten your chances on finding your lost friend.

Did you go to school with this friend? Then check with old classmates and see if they know his whereabouts. Even if you didn't, you can check the Classmates and Reunions websites if you know which school your lost friend attended. Both resources work to locate old classmates and friends. They also cost nothing to join.

Send a note to an old address. Maybe a family member still lives at the address and can pass your letter along. Use her last known email address to see if you get a response. Was it a work email? If it doesn't come back as undeliverable, you can always go on the company's website to see if she still works there.

Complete a people search using the information you have. Intellus and People Finders offer a people search tool for a small fee. Search results can include an address, phone number, employer and an email address.