antskip,
Are you using Avast Home or Pro?
Ok, there are 5 modules within Avast that protect are used to scan email, and protect your computer by running resident (all the time).
The Standard shield runs resident and remains active unless shut down. It constantly watches computer activity to protect any attempt at virus infection. NEEDED
The Outlook Express shield is for OE email scanning. NEEDED if OE installed.
MS Outlook/Exchange is for email scanning for users who have MS OE installed. NEEDED if MS Outlook or MS Exchange installed.
P2P is for special use programs such as Kazaa, Kazaa Lite, Direct Connect, Bear Share, WinMX, Lime Wire and Bit Torrent programs. Needed if you use any of the programs in the list.
Internet Messaging allows Avast to protect your im messaging services. NEEDED if you use things like ICQ, AOL, MSN etc.
techie101