The Windows 7 Original ISO Disk (Retail) Can Be Downloaded Directly from the Official Microsoft Website, But There Are Alternative Solutions for OEM Versions
An original Windows 7 ISO disk is defined as a copy of the operating system that remains untouched and unmodified. The most reliable source for downloading this ISO is the official Microsoft website. However, until recently, Microsoft only allowed the download of retail ISO versions. For those who require an OEM version of the disk, alternative solutions may be necessary.
While it is possible to download ISO files for newer versions such as Windows 8 and Windows 10 directly from Microsoft, downloading Windows 7 is more restricted. This limitation is certainly puzzling and, to some, quite unfair.
If you are unsure about the difference between a Retail and OEM version of Windows, click on this link.
How to Download the Original Windows 7 Retail ISO Disk
To download the original Windows 7 ISO from Microsoft, follow these steps:
- Ensure you have a valid product key, but not for OEM versions. If you need assistance with locating your product key, check out this tutorial on how to install a clean copy of Windows 7 and find your product key.
- Visit the official Microsoft page to download Windows 7 and paste the URL into your browser.
- Enter your Windows 7 product key and click verify (see images below).
- If your product key is valid, follow the on-screen instructions to download the Windows 7 Original ISO.
Enter product key to download Windows 7
Wait until your product key is verified.
But, if you are using an OEM product key, you will see an error message as shown below. You will need to find an alternative solution.
Error! OEM product key in Windows 7 download page.
Where to Download the Windows 7 Original ISO OEM Disk
If you have an OEM product key, one option is to download the Windows 7 ISO from your device’s manufacturer. However, this is a more complicated process. You will need to have proof of purchase or details about your device, and you may need to pay a fee to obtain recovery media from the manufacturer.
If you are unable to obtain this copy, you may need to find an alternative solution. Below, we list some sources where you can download original Windows 7 ISO files, though these will be without a license. You will need to enter your own product key after downloading. Make sure to select the correct version of Windows 7 for your product key.
GetMyOS
- Windows 7 Enterprise X86 (32-Bit) and X64 (64-Bit) ↗
- Windows 7 Professional X86 (32-Bit) and X64 (64-Bit) ↗
- Windows 7 Home Premium X86 (32-Bit) and X64 (64-Bit) ↗
- Windows 7 Ultimate X86 (32-Bit) and X64 (64-Bit) ↗
- Windows 7 Starter Edition (32-bit) ↗
- Windows 7 Home Basic X86 (32-Bit) ↗
Downloading Windows through this service requires granting GetMyOS access to your Google Drive. It is your choice whether you wish to proceed with this.