I still haven't updated my desktop computer to Win11, but the date is rapidly approaching. It is eligible for the upgrade (can handle it) but my 12-year-old Sony VIAO won't manage the upgrade. It has some software that I don't want to lose, so I'm not planning to do anything to it.

I know we have Linux users on the 'cat, so this question is aimed at you. I've read a couple of things saying those older computers could be set up with Linux to continue use, instead of being recycled and replacements purchased for Windows users. I haven't put any partitions on that laptop, but I suppose I could; would there be any point in setting up a dual-boot system if I don't have the original disks to reinstall the software (Adobe products, right before they went to online subscriptions only). Could the Linux software see and use software store in the Windows environment?