Windows Update not working after installing Avast - Windows 7 Professional SPK1

Hello all.

Since installing Avast (Free version) Windows Update is not working. It just hangs when I try to do it manually and I have stopped seeing the message “Windows is installing updates please do not turn off your computer” any more.

I tried searching the web but, found nothing to properly answer this.

I am at the point of uninstalling Avast and trying another AV program.

Any experience or advice with this?

I am still using Windows 7 Professional edition.

Thank you.