: This build provides a balanced "lite" experience with a 655 MB ISO size and a 3 GB disk footprint. Unlike some more aggressive trims, this version is designed to still allow for essential Windows updates if chosen wisely. It is available on Internet Archive . How to Get a .qcow2 File
qemu-img convert -f vmdk -O qcow2 source.vmdk destination.qcow2 Compact the Image : To minimize disk space, run the tool inside the VM to zero out free space, then use to compress the file: windows 7 lite qcow2 best
Boot the VM, mount the VirtIO ISO manually inside Windows (drive D:), go to Device Manager, right-click "Ethernet Controller" → Update driver → Browse for driver on the VirtIO ISO's NetKVM\w7\amd64 folder. : This build provides a balanced "lite" experience
Windows 7 does not have built-in VirtIO drivers. You must load the VirtIO Win ISO during installation, or your QCOW2 won't "see" the virtual disk. How to Get a