If the option is available, download the new AV as a file (be sure to keep track of where you saved it.)

If the software is designed correctly, you should be able to install it. It should give you intructions on what to do. This should keep all your settings, logs, etc.


BTW:
Virus don't just appear on your computer without you downloading it from somewhere.


So:
If you have to uninstall the original version, just make sure you do not load up any unknown media (CDs, floppies), retrieve emails, or surf the net while you are unprotected.

Just to make sure, you can just disconnect your system by removing the cable to your Internet Service Provider. Once installed, reconnect, AND GET LATEST UPDATES.

Most downloads are somewhat out of date.

OK. Thank you. What if I want to switch to something like Zone Alarm? Is this highly recommended? Better than McAffee?

I think Zone Alarm is a software firewall -
And we are talking about Anti-Virus software.

Grisoft does provide a free version of AVG - I think the scanning is just as good as the paid version, but just limited scheduling, help, etc. Check out the following link:

http://www.grisoft.com/doc/289/lng/us/tpl/tpl01

There are other free ones, just pay attention to how you get updates, schedule, etc.

They are usually limited in some manner.

But since I do not trust most automatic software, I actually prefer software that lets me decide when to do it and how!