While officially unsupported, there are still reasons why you might need a Windows 7 ISO. Perhaps you're maintaining legacy systems, running it in a virtual machine for specific software compatibility, or simply nostalgic. Whatever your reason, finding a legitimate and safe ISO download can be tricky.
First, understand that Microsoft no longer offers direct downloads for Windows 7. Be wary of unofficial sources claiming to offer ISOs, as they can be riddled with malware. The safest approach is to check trusted archives like the Internet Archive. Remember to verify the SHA1 hash of any downloaded ISO to ensure its integrity and authenticity.
Once you have a verified ISO, you can create a bootable USB drive or DVD using tools like Rufus. From there, you can proceed with the installation. Keep in mind that without official updates, using Windows 7 on a machine connected to the internet presents security risks. Consider isolating it or using it only for specific offline tasks. Use with caution!
