I have a question that may seem extremely simple but nonetheless, I’m sure I’m not the only one wondering. When downloading a software program you usually close all open windows, does that include Avast and the firewall also? What are the possibilities of either one hindering the download process? This “inquiring mind” really would like to know.
SCORPIONINBLUE
I’ve never closed down any program while downloading.
I do use a Download Manager.
My favorite is GigaGet. It’s available from MySharedFiles 
and lot’s of other places.
Hi SCORPIONINBLUE
I to like Bob do not close any open windows programs etc when downloading anything.
I to use a download manager very useful for stopping and resuming downloads on a dial-up account!
Eh, whats the purpose of AV if you disable it? And for download? Don’t understand why? I’ve never disabled ANY program even if installer suggested so and never had ANY problems. So just keep your antivirus enabled at all times, keep it updated and you’ll be fine.
I too don’t disable avast for downloads, either using a download manager of default browser download. Since downloads are a likely time to get an unexpected gift there is no way I would contemplate disabling my defences.
I would go further and say if someone insisted I did that I would wonder what they have to hide and consider downloading at all.
Thanks for the advice fellas, I’m not familiar with using a download manager, but I will leave Avast and Zone Alarm on next time I install a new program. I guess I’m very cautious and when the instructions say close all open windows I find myself going to the extreme! Thanks again, anyone know of a source where I can read up on download managers, how they work etc.?
I think much of this is a throw back to the bad old days when a slight cough and your system would crash, not so these days.
However, if you have open windows, like your working on other tasks like word processing, media, browser, etc. it won’t hurt to close those windows when you install (but no background stuff like your firewall or AV), but there would be no need to do that to download.
http://fileforum.betanews.com/browse/WWW&Internet/DownloadEnhancements
http://www.snapfiles.com/Freeware/downloader/fwdown.html
I suggest: http://freedownloadmanager.org/ 
Tech thanks for info. I downloaded the program and will get familiar with using it. Once again, as many times in the past, you’ve come through for me. Thanks again!!
I use Firefox 2.0 If I download Free download manager would it conflict with the
download manager in Firefox?
No Free Download Manager does not conflict with Firefox 2.
It does however have problems if you have the FireFox Flashgot extension installed.
I have been using FireFox and Free Download Manager for a long time now without a problem they work well together.
Thanks for your quick reply tednelly. I’ll give it a try.
No worries g67 Free Download Manager installs a plugin into Firefox 2 addons-(extentions)
take your time when you configure FDM you’ll wonder why you hadn’t use a Download Manager before
I downloaded and used Free Download Manager, but what I’m finding is that when I go to launch the videoclip I’m getting error messages with a lot of files. To test things I downloaded ithe same file again but with out the download manager and was able to play the file. Is there something I’m not configuring?
Which error… can you post a screenshot of the popups?