Database update problem

I use free Avast! on a W98 Laptop which only acts as a network printer server for my XP2.

Recently I re-registered and started a scan. Part way through it began downloading a new virus database. But then after a while it aborted the download with a message saying it could not complete because there was not enough memory. The scan finished, presumably using the (quite) old database. Next day I did some uninstalling / deleting and tried to download the new database again, so far with no response.

The database in use is 09209-0,09/02

Any advice?

Chris

The RAM requirements are a bit higher as the virus database increased…
How much RAM does this laptop have?

You can download the full update here: http://files.avast.com/iavs4pro/vpsupd.exe

Hello

It has just happened again, update looked like it was going well then stopped, saying there is not enough ‘storage memory’. The C drive has just over I GB left. I will check on RAM, when I can find out how, and report. It will no be very big, I am sure.

Chris

It’s not a problem of the disk storage (free space) but memory (RAM).
Control Panel > System
should give you the amount of RAM.

RAM is 96.0 MB

Chris

That’s the problem… avast is not being able to run in such small configuration… Sorry…

Can you suggest alternatives? I suppose I might try online virus checkers for example? It must be possible to have some protection for earlier computers, I have used Avast! on my W98 OK until this update.

Chris

It’s becoming very difficult to protect old OS with modern antivirus. avast 5 won’t be even Windows 9x compatible anymore. For a computer with 96Mb of RAM I just suggest safe browsing and safe habits. Maybe you can test on-line scanners:

BitDefender
ESET NOD32
F-Secure

For detection-only, not cleaning:
Kaspersky
Trendmicro housecall

Thanks for your help!

Chris

You’re welcome. If you want to help me, don’t thank me, just sign up & use (sign up only is not enough) Mozy to get 2,200 Mb for free remote backup system. Enjoy its safety!