Windows XP Pro SP3 - fully updated
Avast 5.0.677 db: 100920-1
iTunes 9.2, 9.2.1, and 10.0
iPhone OS 4.1
Problem: While Avast is running if I attempt to connect my iPhone, iTunes freezes for approximately 60 seconds (or until I un-plug the iPhone, whichever comes first). When iTunes un-freezes the iPhone is not in the devices list (although it does appear under My Computer).
Attempted solutions: At first I thought the problem was with the iTunes software, I followed all the iTunes troubleshooting steps, then tried several different versions. All to no avail.
My next step was to format my hard drive and re-install Windows XP. I did so, installed my security software (Avast5 and MalwareBytes Anti-Malware), connected to the internet, and fully updated Windows, Avast, and MB Anti-Malware. I then installed iTunes and attempted to sync my iPhone. The issue still presented itself.
Again I reinstalled Windows XP, and this time installed AVG Free Anti-virus and MB Anti-Malware, connected to the internet, updated everything, and tried again. Worked perfectly.
I then decided the problem must be with Avast. So I again re-install Windows, load Avast and MB Anti-Malware, and update everything. The issue presents itself. So I use the “Disable for 10 minutes” options and try again. This time it works perfectly. I then begin disabling each shield one by one and try it. As it turns out, when the Mail Shield is active iTunes simply refuses to acknowledge the existence of my iPhone. As soon as I disable the Mail Shield, everything is hunky-dory.
Just to make sure, I re-installed Windows several times, and was able to re-produce the issue every time, so I am certain it is not a mistake I am making when I install things.
Side Notes: When I say I update everything I mean everything (except Windows Search 4.0, I hate that thing), this includes several .NET versions. Finally, syncing my iPod (not a touch, much older) works perfectly fine, and in fact if I re-enable the Mail Shield after my iPhone is recognized, I can sync it with no problem, so the issue only presents itself when the iPhone is plugged in, not after.
So my question is… why is the Mail Shield causing this problem, and is there a permanent fix I can use, instead of disabling the Mail Shield every time I want to snyc my iPhone?
I tried to include as much information as possible, but if I left anything out let me know and I’ll provide whatever information I have.