Error: The Application has failed to start because its side-by-side configura..

Avast Free Antivirus / Premium Security
1

"
C:\Program Files\ AVAST Software\Avast\AvastUI.exe

The Application has failed to start because its side-by-side configuration is incorrect. Please see the application event log or use the command-line sxstrace.ece tool for more detail."

This^ is the error I get anytime I attempt to open the free version of avast. I am running windows 8.1.

I used avasts personal cleaner to remove everything after entering safe mode and reinstalling.

In fact I tried this twice. It still gives me the same error. I have been using Avast for a very long time and have never had this issue, been using it on this very laptop for ages.

Also when I look in my windows action center it states that both windows defender and avast are turned on, however Windows Defender IS NOT, as I’ve opened it and it says I am not protected. And obviously avast is not working.

Help?

2
  • OS…? (32/64 Bit…?)
  • Other security related software installed…?
  • Which AV(s) did you use before Avast…?
3

Windows 8.1 64 Bit

I have spybot search and destroy 2.2 (though its not updated and such)

I haven’t used any other AV’s on this computer besides avast.

4

First, be sure to get rid of Spybot…!!

Then:

  1. Download Avast Free Antivirus: https://files.avast.com/iavs9x/avast_free_antivirus_setup.exe
  2. Follow instructions: https://www.avast.com/uninstall-utility (Run this tool for all prior installed Avast versions…!!)
  3. Reinstall Avast with the downloaded installer from point 1.
  4. Reboot.
5

I tried it and got the same results as before. As soon as I hit “Done” and it says it will do a quick scan I get that same message. That message also pops up when I attempt to open the desktop icon.

6

To rule out an infection…
Attach your basic logs. (MBAM, FRST and aswMBR…!!)
Instructions: http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=53253.0

7

I will have to get back to you with this at a later time. Very late here. Thanks for the help so far.

8

OK, you’re welcome, take your time.

9

It does sounds like there is a other av (or related) software installed.

10

New Computer usually comes with a trial version of an AV
Even if it is never used, it still needs to be removed.
Check Programs and Features to see if you can spot it and let us know so we can direct you to the removal tool.