Might it be good to d/l Avast to desktop, then delete avg, then install avast? Thanks, fredda

No always uninstall one first then immediately DL and install the other.

Downloading Avast while AVG is installed/running presents no cause for concern ... just don't have them both installed/operating at the same time.

Download Avast.
Uninstall AVG.
Install Avast.

I usually recommend when removing an AV to use the appropriate manufacture's removal tool.

Not downloading the replacement AV first only avoids potential user confusion. It has no effect on the task at hand.

DA

DA--I did not install avg on that computer. Do I just open avg and hunt around for the uninstall button? Feel really dumb about such a simple thing, just don't want to make a mistake. Thanks, F.

Google is your friend...if you use it:

"avg removal tool" and the first thing that pops up is

https://support.avg.com/SupportArticleView?urlname=How-to-uninstall-AVG

I agree, it's definitely not necessary to uninstall the old antivirus software before downloading a new one. But before installing the new one, for sure.

fredda, at the risk of stating the obvious, Windows XP is no longer supported from a security standpoint and using it does entail some risk. So long as you are using this PC for general purposes only and not for essential uses with any Win-only software, I would seriously consider installing Linux (a different operating system that's available for no cost) to replace XP.

Start a new thread on that topic if that may apply to you, there are other contributors here (not me) who can provide helpful guidance.

Fredda,

The information for removing AVG from XP using the on-board uninstaller is in the link shared by Azinoh. It's under section B

DA

I just reformatted my PC and had almost everything I needed downloaded and backed up before I reformatted. I just removed Avast because of problems I have with it. I now use Avira.