Modifying avast! ini files - Produces error

Avast Free Antivirus / Premium Security
1

I’ve noticed that modifying the ini files has become slightly harder…not sure when it started, but if I try to edit an ini file, I get an error…

Currently I have only seen this on vista, but I will check win7 later (can’t check XP myself - would be grateful if someone could)

Any info on why this happens?

Disabling self-defense doesn’t help either.

I have found a way around it if you do need to, but it is slightly more work :wink:

Here is what you need to do:

  1. Disable avast! self-defense

  2. Open the .ini file

  3. Add the line in the file that you need to

  4. Save the ini file to the desktop

  5. Navigate to:
    Vista (Onwards)–> C: \ ProgramData \ Alwil Software \ Avast5
    XP → C: \ Documents and Settings \ All Data Users \ Application Data \ Alwil Software \ Avast5 \

  6. Click and drag the file on the desktop into the folder. - Confirm that you want to replace it.

  7. Re-enable self-defense

You should be able to open the file after this and check that the line has been added
IIRC, you may need to restart the relevant shield before the change works.

Scott

2

You need to change anything using Notepad. Any other editor could bring troubles.
The self defense module is off for Notepad and you need to manually disable it for the others.

3

Yes, you only need to use notepad and make your edit, when you save the file, the self-defence module will ask for confirmation that you want to do this.

4

Yeah I know this…look at the image…

I say yes to the self defence question, then I am greeted by the error…

5

I’ve experienced this in Vista as well. Not sure why exactly, Vista makes everything more difficult. I do the same thing you suggested and it works for me.

6

I’m not sure if the Notepad-exclusion for the ini file applies to these INI files as well (maybe it’s only for avast5.ini)
However, if disabling the self-defense doesn’t help… maybe it’s not related to self-defense actually?

7

Ahh…I think I know why this is…as usual, igor you are right :slight_smile:

UAC…

Run notepad as admin in vista/seven and it works :slight_smile:

So from now on, if editing the ini files, I’d suggest logging into the administrator account on the pc.

Scott

8

@ spg SCOTT

The reason why I have my system specifications in my signature helps the helpers provide quicker solutions. :wink:

If it is good enough for DavidR an avast! Technical advisor its good enough for me.

@ norel

You could add your system information to signature as well.

Please go to PROFILE then Modify Profile then Forum Profile Information then update your Signature: with information like my signature as this helps the helpers offer pertinent advice.

9

@ YoKenny,

Yeah, I get it. You want my specs. I heard you the first 100 times. If I was gonna post them wouldn’t you think I’d have done it by now? You’re wasting your breath, but hey, whatever turns you on. ;D