Working solution for recording sound internally via the stereo mixer (Wave-Out Mix)

hi

We're using Sony, Dell, HP and Acer laptops with built-in sound cards like (Intel Sound AC'97) in our network. All these laptops use Windows Vista or Windows 7.

I can't find a working solution for recording sound internally via the stereo mixer. There should be an option like "Stereo Mix" / "Record What you hear" / "Waveout mix" etc. listed in the mixer output.

Updated Sigmatel, Realtek, Intel drivers didn't change anything

Do I have to use an audio cable from output to input on the back on these laptops to "record what i hear" ?

Anybody with a hint on that subject ? Is there actually a tool for Windows Vista or Windows 7? Should we downgrade to Windows XP to be able to record sound?

We were not willing to switch to Linux, but safer Internet and safer office work almost without viruses and trojans looks promising. If we switch to Linux, will there be an option like "Stereo Mix" / "Record What you hear" / "Waveout mix" or similar? What Linux distributive is good enough for sound recording, office work, Internet browsing and VoIP?

Salutation