Returning to avast

[emma]

I had avast for several months this past spring.  When I got my new computer I used the 3 free months subscription to Norton.  I am now going to uninstall Norton and download the home edition of avast.
I know I can not have two antivirus programs.

My question is:  Can I download avast to my desktop and have it ready to execute as soon as I uninstall and delete Norton?  Or do I have to delete Norton first and then go to the avast web site and download avast?
 
I guess I am so frightened of that in between time between deleting Norton and getting avast.  Since I have become a constant reader of the avast forums, I have learned many new and helpful ideas.  But I have also become more cautious and a bit scared.  Probably too much info.

I just want to return to avast the safest way possible

Another question:  Often many of you tell others to search for info.  I have tried to use the search option but haven't been able to use it successfully.  Would you please give a short tutorial?

Thank you

[igor]

You can certainly download the installation package whenever you want. Until you install it, you don't have to worry about any possible conflicts.

[whocares]

as to search:

the key to success here is choosing the right keywords/ search terms


for your problem:
click "search" above, and enter
Norton uninstal
into the search field

this gives some hits, where you should find some general strong advice on your NORTON/avast issue & hints on how to properly and completely remove NORTON
(which can be done after downloading avast, but MUST be done pior to installing avast or any other AV)

 
P.S.: BEFORE you uninstall Norton, make sure that you have ALL Windowsupdates applied..!!

[Gene Johnson]

Emma: I beleive the proper procedure would be:

1) Down load avast! to desktop (or disc).
2) Go offline
3) uninstall All Norton and its components (other threads say how)
4) install avast!
5) go online and update avast!

If you had the Norton Suite then you also need to add Ad-AwareSE (or similar), Spybot S&D (or similar) and a firewall like ZoneAlarm (or similar) before you go back online. Other threads (especially the General and off-topic) cover these issues. Welcome back to the avast! fold.

[bob3160]

Emma
The link in my signature will lead you to most of the things you need and then some.