"connect to avast account" error

I am running Avast free anti virus 20.9.2437 (build 20.9.5758.615) in Windows 7. I have an Avast account but when I go to the sign in option under menu I keep running into an error. I enter my username and password and click “sign in” and I get the message “please connect to the internet” and a hyperlink reading “need help?” Username and password are both current and I am already connected to the internet. Any ideas how to get past this? I tried reinstalling but got the same message. It happens with both ethernet and wifi access. I am running Win 7 home premium, service pack 1.

Hi,

Please try the following:

Thanks, I’m traveling now, I will try this when I get back.