Frank, that 'pooter will run Zorin Lite or Core, or Mint just fine.
None of your Windows software will remain when you install Linux. Your drive will be wiped clean. However, the good news is that you will get a full Office package in the installation that is fully compatible with the MS version - and you won't need Avast.
Before you install Linux, transfer EVERYTHING you need to keep to an outside drive. Use copy and paste, not Backup. Move your Document, Photos, Videos, Music, etc entire folders to simplify things. Also export your bookmarks to that drive. Move it or lose it.
Don't bother with moving Windows software. You'll find equivalent software included. There are ways to get some Windows software to run under Linux, but chances are the packages that come with Zorin or Mint will allow you to do the work you did with the old programs.
Go
HERE and run either Zorin Core or Linux Mint. Look at the software included and see for yourself.
