how do i disable a program

gregrocker said:

IE won't use any resources while left enabled but not used. It isn't an issue.

What can be an issue is using a 3rd party firewall on Win7 which works best using it's own firewall with a lightweight AV like Microsoft Security Essentials or Avast 6, not old-school bloatware AV's and firewalls.

Thanks for the input. I may experiment with MSE just to try it.

Sometimes it’s what works for an individual. Been using Zone Alarm free and AVG free for about 6 years with no problems, and no malware, plus use the best defense, “safe surfing”. The ability to block outgoing traffic is a nice feature of ZA, and AVG’s e-mail scanner has worked well.

At any rate as regards the OP, I thought it was interesting that turning EI “off” did not totally shut it down and some sites/software seem to need IE.

BTW, I visit sevenforums a couple times a week to learn. Thanks to all the contributors.

No one here that I've read recommends either Zone Alarm or AVG with Win7. AVG is bloatware, ZoneAlarm can cause issues. Both throttle the first lightweight instantaneous OS.

You're right that it comes down to user choice, but at least try it with the optimal choices mentioned which are recommended by most everyone here.