anti virus program

I was starting to load my usual programs on a SONY small 2.5 gig tower. It is running xp pro, 512/256. At some point after I loaded AD-AWARE brand, I started to download AVG. At that point an unfamiliar and unwanted SECURITY program that calls itself "IE SECURITY", appeared. It also brought all kinds of garbage along with it. The program apparently does not have an UNINSTALL function, nor will it allow the CONTROL PANEL to open. I finaly found a way to remove it, so I thought. The program is no longer on the PROGRAMS LIST, but apparently it or parts of it are still there. When I try to download AVG from the publishers site or elsware, this program appears and begins to scan. REMOVAL of threats is ONLY done by a PAID registration. This program is preventing me from DOWNLOADING ANYTHING FROM ANYWHERE! I am thinking that some vestiges still remain. I would like to open CONTROL PANEL, show updates, to see if I can remove these bits and pieces. Catch 22 here. PANEL cannot open. Once I remove this program I can then load AVG and other programs. The net connection is not affected as evidenced by the fact that I can call up web sites. This program is useless and it is NOT related in any way to MICROSOFT products or programs. Any ideas how I can remove this program? Would I need to wipe the hdd clean and reinstall the OS? That is beyond me.