1. I had AVG (free) running with the August bits.
2. I installed RC1 as an upgrade. Went in smooooooth. I didn't even have to
use any grease.
3. RC1 complained about not being able to talk to AVG and offered
TrendMicro.
4. I've since uninstalled and reinstalled AVG and fiddled around with
defender so that AVG runs properly. (Don't ask for the why of what I did. It
was the first time I interacted with Defender. Before the uninstall, I had
put Spynet into advanced mode. Before firing up AVG, I confirmed in Defender
that the changes AVG made are ok. This was something in my ignorance i had
not done before. My motto is "If you have to read the manual, the software
is poorly designed.")

HERE IS THE PROBLEM:

Ever since the install, when I go to the Security Center I see absolutely no
indication that Anti-Virus software is even a concern!!!

I do Control Panel | Security | Security Center.

What I get is a lecture and a choice in the left hand panel of
Windows Update
Windows Firewall
Windows Defender
Internet Options
Get the latest security ...

I've now explored Defender at length. It is sweet.

But nothing about about AV software per se.

Would someone please point me in the right direction? Suggest the right
sledge hammer to use to get some indication that RC1 cares about AV
software? etc.

Regards,
Al Christoph