Whenever the virus database tries to update I get the following error message:
Information about current update:
Last encountered error: Other HTTP error (404), while trying 66.98.196.85:80//iavs4x/av_pro_hlp409-17e.vpu
Total time: 2:25
Anyone know what it means? Thanks.
It means that Avast was not able to connect to Alwil’s server. Make sure you have your firewall setup correctly.
Also check your proxy settings.
I have a similar problem, I get a meassage “cannot connect to server”! I get this everytime I try to update manually!
I get it with or without Zone Alarm on and all the settings for Avast are a go on ZA! Ihave been using this proggie for 2 years and only got the problem when I upgraded this morning to V 4.5 Pro!! :-[ ???
Make sure that Internet Explorer (or your browser) is not set to “Work Offline” (this options is in the File menu). If it doesn’t help, try switching the proxy settings from “Auto-detect” to “No proxy”.
(I’m assuming you’re not connecting to the Internet via proxy).
Left click the avast icon > Settings
Update (Basic) > Details > Proxy
Well my friend, Translator and Evangelist maybe, but you just became the closest thing to God to me!! I switched to no proxy and voila I am in business again!!! ;D
Many thanks and good to have good people like you on these forums!!
Merry Xmas my friend to you and yours!!! 
Merry Christmas for you and yours too…
Well, in fact, I’m far from being God 8)
Enjoy the help here and, if you can, try to help and say welcome to the new ones in our family
:)Will do and I am happy to be aboard!!