MS SQL not Compatible with Windows 7

MS SQL Server 2000 desktop edition is not compatible with windows 7. Please recommend which version should be used?

1. For SQL Server 2000 desktop edition you can install VMware Workstation on your system. Now you would be able to install Windows XP on this workstation and then SQL Server 2000 desktop edition as well. 
2. If you do not like to install VMware Workstation on your system then you can use Microsoft's "Install and use Windows XP Mode in Windows 7" facility by following this link: http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows7/install-and-use-windows-xp-mode-in-windows-7 
3. And if you want to download any latest SQL Server Version like 2012 express edition for home, then use this link plealse: http://www.microsoft.com/sqlserver/en/us/editions/2012-editions/express.aspx