Uninstalling old AV prior to installing NIS 2011

I want to install NIS 2011 but I need to remove my old AV program (from another company).  My plan is to disconnect from the internet, uninstall the old program and then install NIS.  Looking at the NIS User Guide under "Installation" it states "ensure that you are connected to the internet".  I would not want to risk being on the interent without a running AV program, even for a short time while installing NIS.  What will happen if I try installing NIS while disconnected from the internet?  I don't understand how an internet security product company can recommend being connected to the internet to install the product, leaving the user vulnerable until the installation is conmplete.  Any feedback would be appreciated.  Thanks.