Avast completely failed today without any reason. I was not doing anything unusual - just typical personal computer stuff. This is the second time in a month it has failed. I tried the Repair function this time, but it did not accomplish anything useful. It does not inspire confidence when “security” software suddenly fails to work at all.
Had you tried to reinstall Windows? If not, I recommend to do this.
Sorry but I can’t agree with this suggestion, it is like using a sledgehammer to crack a nut.
By completely failed what do you mean, were there any warnings/error messages, if so what ?
What else have you tried to resolve it ?
What Avast version are you using, avast! free 19.8.2393 (build 19.8.4793.544) being the latest version ?
Have you tried a clean reinstall of Avast ?
The operating system is fine. I keep it updated and access the internet primarily through a user account, not the administrator account, so the probability of anything happening to the operating system is very remote. Erasing the hard drive and reinstalling the operating system would be an excessive solution.
The only warning was Avast suddenly said my computer was no longer protected. From that point on Avast did not work in any way. I check avast once a month to see if an update is available, so I would have had the September update. So, this meant an uninstall and reinstall. I did a clean reinstall with the uninstall utility (avastclear.exe). My frustration is that this is the second time this has happened in the past month. It takes about a half hour to uninstall and reinstall, including three restarts for the uninstall, the reinstall, and restoring the settings. It’s such a waste of time.
Yes the 18.8.2393 version was the September release.
Some people with win7 have experienced some issues, but none that I can recall matching your issue.
I’m at a bit of a loss as what else to suggest as I’m no longer using any system with win7 as the OS.
- Other security related software installed…?
- Which AV(s) did you use before Avast…?
PS: You can export/import your settings (screenshot).
Asyn’s screenshot except English Language.
@fishswimthesea: Is your machine disconnected from internet for periods that may cover updates.
What exact error message do you see from Avast?