Windows 10: Avast Antivirus Problem

Hi,
I have a desktop PC and recently installed windows10 OS
Then when that was up and running I went to install an antivirus. I wasn't aware that Windows Defender was part of the package and so I went to look for an antivirus program.
I like Chome browser and read that Avast was the best option with this browser.

Now in the days of old, it was always a safe bet to go to download.com/CNET to download free programs as they could almost guarantee the stuff was clean. No I find out this is no longer true!
The first surprise was that Defender blocked my efforts to install Avast saying 'this is a malicious file' - so I went via this website to what I thought was Avast web page (still think it was) but ever since I downloaded Avast free version I have had nothing but problems!
The main issue has been that it has blocked all access to the Internet, then my PC doesn't boot up normally as it did before and it hangs midway and requires me to come back and press F1.

I have since uninstalled Avast but all the problems have remained behind. And I began to think it may be an infected file so I ran windows defender which didn't come up with anything, except those three items which were quarantined but were invisible so I don't know where abouts they are,or if I should worry about the warning pop ups I received.

I also ran Malwarebytes but it came up with nothing.
I don't know if I have a virus or not, but ever since I installed Avast my PC is is being prevented from connecting to the Internet so its rendered useless!

Help needed *Huh

:)

 

Avast Antivirus

Since Avast, Adwcleaner and Emsisoft found no issues you're "probably" okay - it's not likely there is active malware present.

If you want to run any other scanners see my previous post ref
List of Malware Removal Tools

Regards...

 

Avast Antivirus

It is indeed the same computer, I'm sorry I post a lot of stuff I'm really no good with computers.

Lee

 

Nowadays it's a good idea to stay away from hosting sites like CNet & others. Most of them run an installer that like to add unwanted extras to the your OS.

Depending on how badly your OS is compromised, you may want to consider doing a refresh.

Refresh Windows 10 - Windows 10 Forums

If you want to attempt to clean it out, malware scanners you can run are Malwarebytes (the free version will work fine) & AdwCleaner. BTW, you can trust any d/l's from Bleeping Computer, they are a safe site that does not try to hijack your PC with unwanted crapware.

It wouldn't hurt to run RKill before you do a scan with MBAM or AdwCleaner. Do NOT reboot after running it.

RKill Download

Also, anytime you uninstall a AV, be sure to use the AV's uninstaller to make sure you get it completely out of your system. Only leftover orphan files can cause problems down the road. You can find a list of AV uninstallers here.

Uninstallers (removal tools) for common Windows antivirus softwareESET Knowledgebase

 

REVO Uninstaller the Free version is also a VERY good choice, as it also checks registry for leftovers from the app. *Smile

 

Thanks for the good advice!
I will have to find another computer first before I can access the Internet - I cannot think why IE and Chrome are being prevented from connecting to the Internet but without this facility, of course I can do nought.

 

Thank you for this good suggestion!

 

More then likely there is a internet security firewall driver in place put there by Avast to scan incoming/outgoing traffic for malware activity. If you did not install the AV all the way, that driver may still be in place & is preventing a connection. Navigate to your Local Area Connection Status, click on properties & see if such a program is still there (i.e., Avast Internet Security Firewall driver). If such a program is listed & still checked, uncheck it & see if you can get online.

There is also a diagnose button which may find the solution.

The same thing happens when Comodo is improperly removed, it leaves a firewall driver that limits connections/blocks some until it is removed.

 

Oh yes, this does sound a very likely possibility.
Thanks so much!
I will look out for this tomorrow, and get back to you, hopefully with good news...

 

OldMike65 beat me to it as it was him that recommended it and I would use no other.
Make sure you find all traces of Avast and let Revo uninstall it