One that works with Linux Unbutu. Easy to use and better than 7 because it does not have exploitable security issues.
Really, Win 7 is, at this point, really problematic. But, you may have issues with Win 10 on an old computer. Get Unbutu. Setup a dual boot or run Windows in a row box inside unbutu. It isn’t hard.
It’s free.
Http:www.unbutu.com
If the computer was "new" enough to have Windows 7 as the initial install, probably not...in fact it may run smoother. I had an old computer I was going to replace but upgrading to Windows 10 bought it a whole new lease on life.
“Get Unbutu.”
Did it.
My HP Compaq 8710w laptop was flagging under the sprawl of Win10.
I FINALLY took the plunge, and put Ubuntu 20 on it.
Did just a couple hours of reading in advance — details how best to size partitions, etc and kept that open on my phone while I was working.
Got that up and running then went to the website for the Brave browser and followed their step-by-step instructions to install Brave. Honestly, as a LINUX noob, just sort of blindly keying in console instructions without fully knowing what you’re telling your computer to do does feel like a leap of faith. But it was a good leap.
And, and, AND I had ZERO trouble using the Remmina remote desktop client to hit my Office Windows machine, so BIG joy, there. AND I installed the Zoom client and it runs A-OK.
TRIFECTA!
My ONLY glitch was because the LINUX kernel reved from 5.4 to 5.8 and NVIDIA didn’t play along, so my video didn’t work after the upgrade.
BUT, tapping the SHIFT key at boot opens a menu where you can tell LINUX to boot using the old kernel, which it DOESN’T nuke during the upgrade process, so it’s still there and usable; and Yes, as a matter of fact this hairy eyeball IS for you, Mister Gates.
So, I just expressly directed my machine to boot into the 5.4 kernel for a couple of weeks until the argument between NVIDIA and the 5.8 kernel got patched up. ZERO loss of productivity, and nothing was at all hampered at the desktop level.
After the patch, even NVIDIA is happy, now. JOY!
So, yeah — I guess maybe set up a dual boot if you’re not sure, but I am NOT Mr. ComSci and I was able to pull it off, and my ancient laptop is happier than it’s been in a very long time; the cooling fan actually goes to low RPM much of the time, which it rarely ever did under Win10.
I second FM’s recommendation, but recommend Linux Mint. It is based on Ubuntu but an easier transition for windows users. If you have programs that require windows, use the virtualbox virtual machine that comes with Mint. Mint is stable, updated often, and comes with the basic software you need. (Office apps, email, browser, pdf stuff, etc.) As a bonus, Linux runs more efficiently than windows and will breathe new life into older hardware. Download the image and make an install DVD. It gives you the option to test drive Mint running it from the DVD. (Will be a lot slower than if installed but you will be able to kick the tires)