Some apps suggest temporarily turning off AV programs before downloading. HOW do I turn off my AVAST (free version)?
Personally I have to wonder what they are doing or trying to hide when they make that suggestion. For me the time you need an AV is when installing new software.
It is the exception rather than the rule that I even consider disabling avast to install a program.
You can right click on the avast tray icon and with the shield control you can disable it for different lengths of time.