UNIX or Linux to replace Windows 7 laptop

[Cy9]

I replaced my hard drive and lost Windows 7 Home Premium 64 bit. What is the best (free?) UNIX to replace Windows on my laptop?

Thanks

[Paul_Tikkanen]

Hi:

Can you still read all 25 characters of the W7 product key on your PC's case?

If so, you can download a W7 64 bit Home Premium ISO file from the link below--toward the bottom of the webpage.

https://getintopc.com/softwares/operating-systems/windows-7-home-premium-free-download-iso-32-bit-64...

Use the Microsoft tool that I zipped up and attached below to transfer the ISO file to a DVD or USB flash drive so that it is bootable.

After W7 installs, you can install the drivers and available software from your notebook's support page.

https://support.hp.com/us-en/drivers/selfservice/HP-Pavilion-dv6-Entertainment-Notebook-PC-series/52...

Because the ISO file is a retail version of W7, and the product key on your notebook's case is OEM, you may have to use the Microsoft automated activation system if activation is not successful on the first try.

As far as Unix or Linux, I would recommend Ubuntu.

https://ubuntu.com/download/desktop

I haven't tried it on your model notebook, but it worked fine on my Intel desktop with the same Intel series 6 chipset, and 2nd gen core processor.

[Cy9]

Paul:

Thanks gain for your comment.  I have the full W7 key and  will try the ISO you suggested.

I did try Ubuntu and i works just fine on my HP-Pavilion-dv6t-6c00.  One oddity: when running it uninstalled from the USB drive it was hard disabled in airplane mode, but after installing it, my dv6 came up with airplane dissabled and WiFi works fine.  (On a Dell I have WiFi was enabled running off the USB copy.)

Thanks again

[Paul_Tikkanen]

You're very welcome.