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Consumer Products => Avast Free Antivirus / Premium Security (legacy Pro Antivirus, Internet Security, Premier) => Topic started by: yaslaw on January 26, 2010, 02:32:19 PM

Title: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: yaslaw on January 26, 2010, 02:32:19 PM
http://public.avast.com/~forejt/aswClear.exe




Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: spg SCOTT on January 26, 2010, 04:11:53 PM
Well, since it has been stickied, I guess that answers my question from the blog... ::)

Quote from: Me on the blog...
@Pavel Mourek
Is this removal tool good for avast! 5?

Could we also suggest it in the forums, as people are asking for one specific to version 5…
http://blog.avast.com/2010/01/19/the-new-avast-logo/#comment-2609

Wonder when it will become official...(i.e. available from the website...)

-Scott-
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: ja37 on January 27, 2010, 12:06:50 AM
Many thanks for this, some of the people help over the phone can't see or hear well, and this will make it faster and easier than the ad-remove programs tool in windows.

I don't mind the work, but, I don't like to look bad for recommending a program that turns bad.

I am fully read for giving feedback if avast wants it for the 30 years experience in repairs, and building specialized systems for handicapped and special needs.

For those who set up the program update feature to auto, I would hope avast can trigger a double check in the scripting to intervene and give enough info so people who can't handle the recovery on their own will say no and keep what they have.

I do want to thank avast for the years excellence, and I pray they keep it up, and get back inline with the way things were.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: icr on January 27, 2010, 09:53:35 AM
http://public.avast.com/~forejt/aswClear.exe

The above file is detected as malware by norton but not in the VT
http://www.virustotal.com/analisis/1467dbe2b793bc930a585a8e9fd2683398a2926b7ac4d93c5bd88c04779f7da2-1264582109
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Tyreman on January 28, 2010, 01:49:37 PM
So I download the removal tool to the desktop, go into safe mode and avast removal tool is not there....on the desktop in safe mode?
go out of safe mode back to normal its there of course but won't run
On as admin
Any ideas
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: PhilR on January 28, 2010, 04:05:14 PM
So I download the removal tool to the desktop, go into safe mode and avast removal tool is not there....on the desktop in safe mode?
go out of safe mode back to normal its there of course but won't run
On as admin
Any ideas
Try downloading it to C:\

Easily found whoever's profile you're in :)
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: alghorabaaa on January 28, 2010, 04:22:31 PM
Works with me under WinXP but didn't delete the main directory of the program :
C:\Program Files\Alwil Software
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: hyjaxltd on January 28, 2010, 04:55:51 PM
http://public.avast.com/~forejt/aswClear.exe

The above file is detected as malware by norton but not in the VT
http://www.virustotal.com/analisis/1467dbe2b793bc930a585a8e9fd2683398a2926b7ac4d93c5bd88c04779f7da2-1264582109
Not to start with a silly question but have you already ran the 'uninstaller' before you loaded your Norton on your system?

As well, it seems its simply letting you know a file in an area not normally removed from is being removed  I can see that this 'alert' is happening after aswclear execution so Norton is simply alerting you to the 'deep' changes the Avast cleaner is making.

I see nothing in your screen shot saying Norton thinks its Malware...in fact Norton tells you the file is safe, again, as far as the alert its simply due to the deep cleaning aswclear performs.

THIS IS ONLY SPECULATION...If anyone can describe whats happeneing here better please do.  But thats what I see going on....nothing harmful, and Norton even says so with its BIG GREEN CHECKMARK.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: icr on January 28, 2010, 05:15:22 PM
Not to start with a silly question but have you already ran the 'uninstaller' before you loaded your Norton on your system?

As well, it seems its simply letting you know a file in an area not normally removed from is being removed  I can see that this 'alert' is happening after aswclear execution so Norton is simply alerting you to the 'deep' changes the Avast cleaner is making.

I see nothing in your screen shot saying Norton thinks its Malware...in fact Norton tells you the file is safe, again, as far as the alert its simply due to the deep cleaning aswclear performs.

THIS IS ONLY SPECULATION...If anyone can describe whats happeneing here better please do.  But thats what I see going on....nothing harmful, and Norton even says so with its BIG GREEN CHECKMARK.

Actually the file is safe even I know that but there was a norton pop up as soon as the download was complete I didn't even run the tool.


Also the GREEN checkmark doesn't mean that it is always safe I have posted the screens of a threat that has GREEN checkmark but its definitely a malware(took it from MDL)

EDIT: Also I have sent the file to symantec haven't got replied about the result but my file is accepted for analysis and I will get the answer shortly
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: sunbirdbudz on January 28, 2010, 06:12:43 PM
Many thanks for this, some of the people help over the phone can't see or hear well, and this will make it faster and easier than the ad-remove programs tool in windows.

I don't mind the work, but, I don't like to look bad for recommending a program that turns bad.

I am fully read for giving feedback if avast wants it for the 30 years experience in repairs, and building specialized systems for handicapped and special needs.

For those who set up the program update feature to auto, I would hope avast can trigger a double check in the scripting to intervene and give enough info so people who can't handle the recovery on their own will say no and keep what they have.

I do want to thank avast for the years excellence, and I pray they keep it up, and get back inline with the way things were.

tHANK you ja73, I am disabled as well and this is driving me up a wall..why did hey release this so soon?  I downloaded it from Avast! website...now its gone..oh, dear..I have no antivirus and cannot get this mess off my machine..it says it is in use...and that is after all the uninstallers were run and the machine restarted...what a mess they created.
sunbirdbudz
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Tyreman on January 28, 2010, 07:01:50 PM
Ran the Avast cleaning  tool in safe mode but it sure doesn't remove all the leftovers by a long shot :(
i also used resplendent registry and jv 16 power tools to get out the leftovers and ascertain all was removed after the use of the avast cleanup tool and rebooting back into safe mode.
I ran resplendent and jv in safe mode to clean it up.
All is well now on another av
keep in mind this was with XP pro 32 bit all service paks and updates onboard, had frequent blue screens after new avast onboard.
had tried a subsequent clean install but still no go.

Other systems with Vista 32 and 7 64 are fine with new avast.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: mikhalek on January 30, 2010, 10:04:18 PM
Worked good to me, then cleaned with CCleaner and installed new version of Avast.
Title: Re: I've got to leave Avast
Post by: dgreenhouse on January 31, 2010, 04:48:48 AM
I was just about to buy Avast for a number of systems, but I can't imagine making a purchase at this point.

After experiencing a crash last week, I installed the latest version of Avast 5.x.xxx and even upgraded to the latest release (in the hope of release from the buggyness), and as you might expect - nothing but problems!
(Fortunately my data, development apps, and projects converted over fine, but it's cost me considerable time, energy, and lost income.

This was a big misstep and might just cause Alwil to fail!

I sure hope the company jumps out there and is proactive in the press, because after 32 years in the industry, I can guarantee this will be bad, Bad, BAD news over the next couple of weeks.

I'm really sorry to see this because I've been very impressed with the products and company thus far and have recommended them to a number of people. Someone asked me today about various system protection strategies and I wasn't able to give them my standard answer that I've given over the past year for systems on the low end.

I said... "Go to Microsoft. " :-(


Sorry; hope things get better; but gotta move on...



Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: KatznCohen on February 01, 2010, 01:11:22 AM
For really deep uninstalls, I use Revo Uninstaller. It scours out every file and registry key that remains, and it's FREE.

http://www.revouninstaller.com/revo_uninstaller_free_download.html
Use the left side gray button for the free one.

I've D/L v. 5, but after reading the forums and posts at VirtualDr.com, I'm waiting. If this continues, I'll return to AVG.

Will there still be definitions issued for v. 4.8?
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: icr on February 01, 2010, 07:49:57 AM
Actually the file is safe even I know that but there was a norton pop up as soon as the download was complete I didn't even run the tool.


Also the GREEN checkmark doesn't mean that it is always safe I have posted the screens of a threat that has GREEN checkmark but its definitely a malware(took it from MDL)

EDIT: Also I have sent the file to symantec haven't got replied about the result but my file is accepted for analysis and I will get the answer shortly

I knew it the file is safe they have added in to their databases Norton now doesn't detect as threat :)
Title: Re: I've got to leave Avast
Post by: dgreenhouse on February 03, 2010, 04:22:58 AM
I was just about to buy Avast for a number of systems, but I can't imagine making a purchase at this point.

After experiencing a crash last week, I installed the latest version of Avast 5.x.xxx and even upgraded to the latest release (in the hope of release from the buggyness), and as you might expect - nothing but problems!
(Fortunately my data, development apps, and projects converted over fine, but it's cost me considerable time, energy, and lost income.

This was a big misstep and might just cause Alwil to fail!

<snipped>...

Thought I'd post back in relation to my angry rant...

I'd first like to offer that Alwil might want to classify this program as - "post beta."

Also, even though I still feel this application isn't quite "ready for prime time", I have to admit something...

After 32 years in the computer field... "I got OWNED!" :D

Finally admitted to myself that which I was in denial of for 6 days...

Last week I clicked on an email link from a friend on Facebook; it was a hacked email from his iPhone, and low and behold... My firewalls and ( avast 4.8 ) notified me of the vermin... I thought the beast was dead... Hard disk bad blocks and other little mouse sounds made me clone my drive with "Clonezilla" - No probs. Back up! Yippee!

CPU utilization "through the roof!" after installing Avast 5.x and new personal firewall... Started to tweak services... A little better, but cpu util still unattractive...

Starting noticing services, registry lint, and other telltale signs that something untoward was afoot - EGHAD!

In closing, I still like Alwil, will come back once the bugs are worked out, and I'm writing a filter for my Outlook and other clients - cause I'll still be on Facebook.

All the best... I'll be spending a bit of time getting my "loins re-girded!" :D
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: KatznCohen on February 03, 2010, 06:30:43 PM
Ran the Avast cleaning  tool in safe mode but it sure doesn't remove all the leftovers by a long shot :(
i also used resplendent registry and jv 16 power tools to get out the leftovers and ascertain all was removed after the use of the avast cleanup tool and rebooting back into safe mode.
I ran resplendent and jv in safe mode to clean it up.
All is well now on another av
keep in mind this was with XP pro 32 bit all service paks and updates onboard, had frequent blue screens after new avast onboard.
had tried a subsequent clean install but still no go.

Other systems with Vista 32 and 7 64 are fine with new avast.

Same here. I installed 5.0396 over 4.8, also XP Pro SP3 with updates etc. My computer was squeaky clean. 5 froze and finally installed after 3 reboots, but it wouldn't run. I used the cleanup utility, then had to remove 200 registry keys manually anyway. Been using Avast only 6 months, and moving on to a different AV again.

Does anyone from Alwil ever post at these boards?
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Sm3K3R on February 03, 2010, 09:53:18 PM
Wouldnt this thread title sound better as "avast 5 uninstall tool" instead of "avast 5 removal tool" .Word "removal" is usually asociated with malware "removal" tools and its really not the case :)
Just a suggestion !
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: KatznCohen on February 04, 2010, 02:03:14 AM
It doesn't uninstall it either.  ;D
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: spg SCOTT on February 05, 2010, 03:37:00 PM
This is now available from the proper download site...

http://www.avast.com/en-gb/uninstall-utility

and the new link is:

http://files.avast.com/files/eng/aswclear5.exe
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: smaildz on February 08, 2010, 05:18:52 PM
thanks. it's ok
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Mr.Agent on February 09, 2010, 11:06:39 PM
Shouldnt the removal tools delete the Windows Temp of avast! too ? Also in Local Temps ?
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: MarcZ on February 10, 2010, 03:02:43 PM
Well, since it has been stickied, I guess that answers my question from the blog... ::)

Quote from: Me on the blog...
@Pavel Mourek
Is this removal tool good for avast! 5?

Could we also suggest it in the forums, as people are asking for one specific to version 5…
http://blog.avast.com/2010/01/19/the-new-avast-logo/#comment-2609

Wonder when it will become official...(i.e. available from the website...)

-Scott-
Wouldn't this page be better to get the correct version? There are 2 versions, 1 for 4 and 1 for 5.
http://www.avast.com/uninstall-utility
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: spg SCOTT on February 10, 2010, 03:40:43 PM
Not necessarily, as aswClear5.exe removes version 4 as well...
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: pszilard on February 15, 2010, 12:23:42 AM
I can also vouch for RevoUninstaller. I mainly use the FREE version 9v1.85), although I purchased a PRO license, only to discover that it only works on the first installed PC. This really f(*&ed me up as I moved from Vista to Windows 7, and now I can't re-install Revo Pro. I recommend you use the free version, or just use the Pro for the 30 days eval.

Anyway, back to Avast; I wanted to go from 4.8 to 5, so instead of stuffing around with the "official" remover and booting into safe mode, I just used Revo. Worked perfectly and only 1 reboot required instead of two.

Cheers,
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: jwall on February 16, 2010, 02:56:26 PM
Using this tool, in safe mode, still leaves traces of the program.  Running regedit and putting in 'avast' in the find windows, many entries of avast are left, but easily deleted except the ones in legacy folders.  You need to change file permissions to delete these.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: DavidR on February 16, 2010, 05:24:54 PM
Since you don't say what is left behind, how can anyone possibly comment.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: jwall on February 16, 2010, 06:21:50 PM
Items in the registry, which should be self explanatory.  Notice I said regedit which means registry.  When you run the clean up utility, it says that registry items are removed.  I'm just saying they are not, that's all.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: DavidR on February 16, 2010, 07:38:28 PM
Hardly, as there are some legacy keys which are under the control of windows, that is why I asked.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: mkis on February 16, 2010, 08:46:19 PM
No uninstaller removes all traces from Registry and Windows directories is what I have found. But what is left on the system after a good uninstaller has done its work doesn't really matter. Just (impotent) litter that you can remove manually if you wish. Or if you re-install or install upgrade of same program, leftovers should accomodate new regime. That is, with a good installer. And no, I have never found Revo to clear absolutely all Registry entries, although in somes cases certainly could be possible when uninstalling a cleverly written program.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Lisandro on February 18, 2010, 11:59:59 AM
I've D/L v. 5, but after reading the forums and posts at VirtualDr.com, I'm waiting. If this continues, I'll return to AVG.
Strange... No problems with the last 3 stable versions released of avast 5...

Will there still be definitions issued for v. 4.8?
You can use the program and the definitions will be updated automatically.
You can also download them off-line.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Lisandro on February 18, 2010, 12:04:32 PM
I have never found Revo to clear absolutely all Registry entries, although in somes cases certainly could be possible when uninstalling a cleverly written program.
+1 It's not the panacea...

Legacy keys are managed by Windows and do not prevent other antivirus installation.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: fabachi on February 21, 2010, 12:40:03 PM
Hello, good morning! I'm new to this forum, I do not know if this is the topic
adequate to express this doubt ... Recently my Avast Home
Edition 4.8 began asking license key, but all the keys that
I could on the site were invalid to the system validation
Avast ... It then every time I connected the laptop to open the System
Operational, appeared the message Invalid License Key.
4 uninstalled Avast and installed Avast Home Edition 5, and registered
upgraded, but the message from Avast 4 on the invalid key even
appears, what can I do? Pra completely disable my Avast
laptop to install the version 5 again?
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Lisandro on February 22, 2010, 03:59:02 PM
I suggest an installation from the scratch:

1. Download the latest version of avast! Uninstall Utility (http://www.avast.com/eng/avast-uninstall-utility.html) and save it.
2. Download the latest avast! (http://www.avast.com/eng/programs.html) version and save it.
3. Uninstall avast from Control Panel (if possible). If, for any reason, you can't run it, try booting in Safe Mode (http://www.pchell.com/support/safemode.shtml) and doing it from there. Anyway, boot after that.
4. Run the avast! Uninstall Utility saved on 1. If, for any reason, you can't run it, try booting in Safe Mode (http://www.pchell.com/support/safemode.shtml) and doing it from there. Anyway, boot after you've run it.
5. Install avast! using the setup saved on 2. Boot.
6. Register your free copy or add the license key for Pro.
7. Check and post the results.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: zfactor on March 10, 2010, 05:44:49 AM
why does the tool not FULLY remove all previous settings? after a reinstall some firewall settings are remaining...
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: mrhengrasmee on March 10, 2010, 12:42:02 PM
Worked fine to me too, Thanks for the link of avast 5 removal tool.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: zfactor on March 10, 2010, 02:08:26 PM
please note that this tool DOES NOT remove the program data alwill folder. so some of the previous settings will remain unless you manually delete that folder. this tool SHOULD remove ALL traces imo
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Lisandro on March 11, 2010, 12:39:16 PM
please note that this tool DOES NOT remove the program data alwill folder. so some of the previous settings will remain unless you manually delete that folder. this tool SHOULD remove ALL traces imo
+1
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Cognus on March 23, 2010, 02:10:17 PM
Will this tool remove the hidden Blacklist & Whitelist?   ???
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: 2bad on March 24, 2010, 04:56:22 AM
I’m lost.  I ran Norman Data Defense for a long time.  But they’re pricey.  So, I installed Avast Free Home version about two weeks ago and set Norman to stop on-demand and on-access scanning.  I was trying not to completely uninstall it until I was confident Avast was working.  Things seemed to be OK.  Avast was updating automatically.  I uninstalled Norman.  Then Avast immediately would not work.  I get this error window:

red circle with a white X in it then this text:
C:\Program Files\Alwil Software\Avast5\AvastUI.exe
This application has failed to start because the application configuration is incorrect. Reinstalling the application may fix this problem.

(http://i7.photobucket.com/albums/y262/dranopix/10032366error.jpg)

So, I tried re-installing.  but the only option the program offered was an uninstall.  I let it do that.  Then running it again would let me install.  Then I keep getting the same error.  So I looked here at the forum and saw there was a separate uninstaller.  I ran the uninstaller from Safe Mode as instructed, then installed again.  Same problem/same error.  So I read on.  As suggested I tried RevoUninstaller.  It said it found 4 things to delete. – finished – reinstalled same problem.  No matter what I do I keep getting:
“This application has failed to start because the application configuration is incorrect. Reinstalling the application may fix this problem.”  I’m going around in circles.   >:( What should I do?

Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: mkis on March 24, 2010, 05:54:11 AM
Okay start from the beginning

How have you uninstalled Norman? Is there a correct uninstall tool for this program? Try this one -
http://www.norman.com/support/support_tools/uninstall_tool/en

Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: BCDarren on March 24, 2010, 07:16:15 AM
Many thanks for this, some of the people help over the phone can't see or hear well, and this will make it faster and easier than the ad-remove programs tool in windows.

I don't mind the work, but, I don't like to look bad for recommending a program that turns bad.

I am fully read for giving feedback if avast wants it for the 30 years experience in repairs, and building specialized systems for handicapped and special needs.

For those who set up the program update feature to auto, I would hope avast can trigger a double check in the scripting to intervene and give enough info so people who can't handle the recovery on their own will say no and keep what they have.

I do want to thank avast for the years excellence, and I pray they keep it up, and get back inline with the way things were.

tHANK you ja73, I am disabled as well and this is driving me up a wall..why did hey release this so soon?  I downloaded it from Avast! website...now its gone..oh, dear..I have no antivirus and cannot get this mess off my machine..it says it is in use...and that is after all the uninstallers were run and the machine restarted...what a mess they created.
sunbirdbudz
I agree, Sunbirdbudz, I too am disabled and loved Avast for years. But When 5 came out I jumped in. Installed it over my 4.8, But today i am here looking to Unistall it as I got the old antiexe virus and I found it in a Scan, I went to "Show Resuts" and I could not remove it or Delete it as the Apply Button was Grayed out, so now I am trying to Remove AntiEXE and once I do - I am going to remove Avast 5 and go with another one like, AVG or Comdo's or aShmapoo's new AV, But I should have never downloaded to 5. Oh, Avast 5 alerts you and then gives you no way to remove it. What Mess Avast is now. I see a lot of posts on Removing it, so I think I will agree and do the Same. forget Avast and go else where. Yes what a Mess Avast has creared. To remove a Virus you Have to pay for the Upgrade and it only Removes a selected few and then you have to Buy the real Expensive one to Remove Antiexe ? I cannot see how it bypassed my Avast. But I will stop here and and remove the Avast Mess too. It stoped everything else but all you need is one and more will come.  And Avast says "it have 1 Million users," Right ?! They mean they HAD one Miillion users...
 
           
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: 2bad on March 24, 2010, 07:46:23 AM
Okay start from the beginning

How have you uninstalled Norman? Is there a correct uninstall tool for this program? Try this one -
http://www.norman.com/support/support_tools/uninstall_tool/en


Thanks for the suggestion, but even on that page for which you sent the link, the first method Norman  recommends to uninstall is to use Control Panel>Add/Remove Programs, which is what I did.  Now their uninstaller instantly says "nothing to uninstall".  So, why they bothered writing an uninstaller I don't know.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: mkis on March 24, 2010, 08:46:54 AM
Okay, and still no luck with yr install of avast 2bad?

If the Norman uninstaller will run, regardless of what it says, then run it anyway if you can.

With avast 5, the uninstall utility for v.4.8 is bundled into the install process - you are prompted to uninstall and then Restart - after which you continue with the install of the new release. I think better this way.

However, you can uninstall v.5 independently using the avast 5 uninstall utility and you should do this.
Then continue with yr install.

I think now you should download yr install package again, making sure you get a good uninterrupted download - (or if confident with the download you already got, stick with that).

First, disconnect from the internet, and install yr avast while offline - you can always update later.

Turn off any firewall or any additional program that has potential to block - as that program may be carrying a record of yr previous configuration. And try install again.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: 2bad on March 24, 2010, 09:40:59 PM
mkis --
I finally realized that Avast4 is the default selection for the removal tool.  Avast5 must be selected from the drop-down list.  The first couple of times I just saw "Avast" in that window and proceeded without looking carefully.  When I selected the correct app to be removed and then re-installed Avast5 everything worked as I intended.  Technically, my problem was operator error.  What the default should be there is a matter of opinion.  Thank you for your help.  

Advise to anyone else:  
*When migrating to Avast from a competing anti-virus program uninstall any such competing programs first. [This may even be necessary when upgrading from an earlier version of Avast.] If you install Avast on top of another anti-virus program and then uninstall that older program Avast may crash and require re-installation.  Re-installation first requires using the Avast removal tool in Safe Mode to purge remnants of the crashed installation.
*When using the Avast removal tool make sure you know which version of Avast you need to uninstall. Carefully select that version for removal from the drop-down list.  ;)
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: mkis on March 24, 2010, 10:39:35 PM
Hi there 2bad, I hope all worked out for you. You didn't say if you ran yr install successfully.

Now, when exactly did you Remove Norman? - was it when you posted the following link or earlier?
http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=54385.msg484863#msg484863

Anyway, could you try yr install of v.5 again. Follow directions and you may be okay this time

There have been some changes, which I  touched on in my last post.

I do not think there is a 4.8 uninstall utility anymore. The uninstall process would now appear to be part of the v.5 install process. Last night I installed the Pro version over the top of avast! Free. The program first requested I uninstall the existing which I did. The same with my installs last week, although I think the 4.8 utility was still available then. Never mind, I installed over the top and everything fine. This has been standard procedure for a few weeks now. The new install fits well into the environment, the previous version of avast being conducive to the new install - and so it should be.

You have outlined this procedure yrself in an earlier post. I say follow it again, and see how you go.

When I over-installed last night, if the existing program had been avast 4.8, then that would simply have been un-installed (but I may be corrected here), and the install of v.5 Pro would have gone ahead just as it did  - with everything good so far. Seems avast now have incorporated the 4.8 uninstall functionality into the v.5 packages. Well it was always there I guess. Nice fit. My installs are proving to be very stable.


Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Hermite15 on April 12, 2010, 06:44:24 PM
as I mentioned a bit earlier in another thread: http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=58453.msg492469#msg492469 I won't advie anymore to use the avast cleaning utility. I used it for the first time yesterday (after a failed setup of the Firewall)... all avast files in program data (config files, logs etc...) were left behind after a reboot. Uninstalling normally cleans better than that ;D
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: doktornotor on April 12, 2010, 06:50:22 PM
as I mentioned a bit earlier in another thread: http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=58453.msg492469#msg492469 I won't advie anymore to use the avast cleaning utility. I used it for the first time yesterday (after a failed setup of the Firewall)... all avast files in program data (config files, logs etc...) were left behind after a reboot. Uninstalling normally cleans better than that ;D

Also quite a bunch of registry stuff is left behind. Well anyway, any chance of getting an improved removal tool for people who have their install corrupted to the point they can't use normal uninstall?
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: mkis on April 12, 2010, 06:59:36 PM
which is the cleaning utility you mean? - aswclear5
I have simply been using the uninstall that comes as part of the install package
- first uninstalls existing, then Restarts, then installs the package

unfortunately this does not make me the ideal person to advise when it comes to unstable installs
- as I realise some users are having less than ideal install experiences
- particularly when it comes to 64bit machines and less common system setups or configs

I make sure to keep this in mind from now on

sorry - x-posted
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Hermite15 on April 12, 2010, 07:07:11 PM
Quote
which is the cleaning utility you mean? - aswclear5

yes
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: DavidR on April 12, 2010, 08:00:15 PM
Lets not lose sight of what the aswclear5 tool is for, if you can't uninstall using the regular add remove programs uninstall utility.

I don't believe it should be used in isolation and when used it should be run from safe mode. To that end I only recommend it as part of a clean reinstall/installation after first having uninstalled whatever version it is that you have.

So the new collated aswclear5.exe is no different in that regard as using the old aswclear.exe, not used in isolation.

Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Hermite15 on April 12, 2010, 08:28:03 PM
oh OK then, thought it was a cleaner , and you're saying it's an emergency uninstaller...
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: DavidR on April 12, 2010, 08:58:11 PM
That is what my belief of its purpose is, if the add remove programs isn't working, but it should still clean out remnants or a failed uninstall. But I don't believe it (the Uninstall Utility) was ever designed as a replacement for add remove programs.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: meigyoku on April 16, 2010, 02:46:09 AM
avast 5 removal tool database is few (Microsoft Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool is 9MB size), so if your system files are infected virus, avast removal tool can not disinfect virus. You should not install Avast antivirus if your system files are infected virus.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: mkis on April 16, 2010, 03:43:29 AM
avast 5 removal tool is for support yr removal of avast! antivirus. This is what is being discussed here.

For most people, if they have an infection on their computer, can be because they didn't have avast loaded in the first place.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Ex_Brit on April 17, 2010, 08:10:17 PM
Your first post lists aswclear.exe yet Avast's website lists aswclear5.exe

http://www.avast.com/uninstall-utility
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: spg SCOTT on April 17, 2010, 08:12:12 PM
Correct.

The OP will need to update the post... ::)

I also mentioned the update a while ago...
http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=54385.msg466101#msg466101

-Scott-
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Ex_Brit on April 18, 2010, 01:58:54 AM
Thanks, thought as much.  I guess I missed that post.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: kokonis on June 09, 2010, 10:29:29 PM
Why avast cant make a removal avast tool , to remove completely the avast antivirus 5 ?Is it so complicated ??
I am in a move to go to another antivirus because some times avast found some wrong viruses .So how you can guarantee me that no traces left from avast ?
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Lisandro on June 10, 2010, 03:07:15 AM
Why avast cant make a removal avast tool , to remove completely the avast antivirus 5 ?Is it so complicated ??
I am in a move to go to another antivirus because some times avast found some wrong viruses .So how you can guarantee me that no traces left from avast ?
Uninstall through Control Panel.
Boot.
Use the avast uninstall tool.
Boot.

But, why would you remove avast just because false positives?
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: kokonis on June 10, 2010, 01:27:42 PM
unistall without traces in the registry ?
Yes i think the false virus detection is very serious because you dodnt feel safe in your machine .Ans in some cases you need to delete wrong files .
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Lisandro on June 10, 2010, 01:50:54 PM
unistall without traces in the registry ?
All the keys that Windows allows to remove. Legacy drivers keys are blocked by Windows and it's Windows who will remove them later (or you, manually).
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: kokonis on June 10, 2010, 01:56:10 PM
Which is the right unistall procedure?
1.uninstall with the tool in safe mode ?
or
2.Uninstall through Control Panel then with uninstall tool .
Which is the best ?
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Lisandro on June 10, 2010, 01:59:37 PM
Follow the normal way (and use the Safe Mode only if the normal way fails).
So, Control Panel > Boot > avast uninstaller tool > Boot.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: KARAYEL on June 12, 2010, 02:53:27 PM
http://public.avast.com/~forejt/aswClear.exe

Hi,
I setup my system Avast but it give me an error. ( not load language dll ). and I want to uninstall it.

I dowloaded to asvClear on my system but it did not run.

"The avast! self protection module is enabled. For this reason, the operation cannot be completed.

To complete the operation, eitjer run this program from windows safe mode, or disable avast! self protection"

But My Avast run under XP. I am not use it.

What can I do?



Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Lisandro on June 12, 2010, 03:11:33 PM
Disable the self protection into the Troubleshooting tab of settings and uninstall.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: kokonis on June 12, 2010, 04:23:22 PM
What is this self defence module ...Can you explain it to me ?
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: DavidR on June 12, 2010, 04:30:00 PM
It is self-explanatory, it is there to prevent malicious software from disabling avast (self-defence).
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: kokonis on June 12, 2010, 04:33:51 PM
You want to tell me that if i disable this feature i can uninstall the avast completely ?
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: DavidR on June 12, 2010, 04:47:38 PM
No, you don't have to do that to uninstall avast from the normal windows add remove programs. The uninstall utility is there if you can't uninstall avast from windows add remove programs.

In which case you run the uninstall utility from safe mode as is recommended in the page where you download the uninstall utility. Avast and many other programs don't run in safe mode (that is the whole point of safe mode) so that it is possible to do any troubleshooting, etc. that you may have and in this case run the uninstall utility 'if required.'
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: kokonis on June 12, 2010, 04:51:36 PM
ok thank for the great support.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: cawsking555 on June 17, 2010, 11:59:09 PM
I HAVE A PROBLUME WITH 5 its not being fixed ther is a big problum with is
the fix bution is not working
and i bot the 2 years all redy and i need help
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Lisandro on June 18, 2010, 03:26:56 AM
I HAVE A PROBLUME WITH 5 its not being fixed ther is a big problum with is
the fix bution is not working
and i bot the 2 years all redy and i need help
I suggest an installation from scratch:

1. Download the latest version of avast! Uninstall Utility (http://www.avast.com/eng/avast-uninstall-utility.html) and save it.
2. Download the latest avast! (http://www.avast.com/eng/programs.html) version and save it.
3. Uninstall avast from Control Panel (if possible). If, for any reason, you can't run it, try booting in Safe Mode (http://www.pchell.com/support/safemode.shtml) and doing it from there. Anyway, boot after that.
4. Run the avast! Uninstall Utility saved on 1. If, for any reason, you can't run it, try booting in Safe Mode (http://www.pchell.com/support/safemode.shtml) and doing it from there. Anyway, boot after you've run it.
5. Install avast! using the setup saved on 2. Boot.
6. Register your free copy or add the license key for Pro.
7. Check and post the results.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Frelon on June 21, 2010, 12:17:27 PM
OK I have done all of this in my attempt to remove Avast 5 - yada yada yada!!

Avast does not appear in Control Panel list of Programs, but every time I boot up I get an error message:

"Windows cannot find: C:\Program Files\Alwil Software\Avast5\AvastUI.exe" - probably because it is not now there!!

But how do I stop this message appearing at each boot up?

Running Win 7.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Lisandro on June 21, 2010, 03:18:13 PM
Follow step 3... If it fails, boot in Safe Mode and use the uninstall tool.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: flaca on August 13, 2010, 07:21:49 PM
I hv read the posts instructions but unable to find the post icon, so am using this to ask a ? that I hv not found answer to during the past 48 hours that I hv been searching the forum.  Pls bear in mind that I am a computer nerd.

The avast icon on my computer sometimes freezes and I want to uninstall an install the program.  However there are the following in my virus chest which will b removed when uninstalling.  Am sceptical in uninstalling for fear that loosing these files will harm my computer.  These r the files:

A0297397.dll  C:\System Volume Information\_restore{94249F6F-DC54-49CD-9348-3D9C85437377}RP311
A0297400.dll  C:\System Volume Information\_restore{94249F6F-DC54-49CD-9348-3C9C85437377}RP311
A0307149.exe  *RAW\C:\System Volume Information\_restore{94249F6F-DC54-49CD-9348-3D9C85437377}RP343
FILE0002CHK   C:\FOUND.035
FILE0008CHK   C:\FOUND.035
FILE0014.CHK  C:\FOUND.035
FILE0015.CHK  C:\FOUND.035
Zuma_Deluxe-Setup.exe  C:\Roll1  Virus: Win32:Trojan.gen

Wd appreciate ur help.

Tk u
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Lisandro on August 13, 2010, 07:46:55 PM
All that files could be sent to Chest without problem.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: flaca on August 13, 2010, 08:54:11 PM
I am sorry, but u misundrstood my question.  These files are already in the Virus Chest.  The first two were transferred on 2-25-2010; the third on 3-1-2010; the fourth and fifth on 3-5-2010; the sixth and seventh on 2-25-2010 and the last one on 2-27-2010.

I need to uninstall Avast and then reinstall.  I read somewhere in thisforum that when Avast is uninstalled files that r in the virus chest are automatically deleted and cannot be retrieved via a restore.

My question then is:  Is it all right if these files are deleted or will they affect the computer in some way?  If not, I will go ahead and perform the Avast uninstall and reinstall.  If yes, then how can I prevent the avast uninstall from deleting the files that I would need to keep?

On 3-2-2010 I installed Malwarebytes, and on that same date it quarantined the following:
Trojan.Agent - C:\Archivos de programa\DAEMON Tools Pro\PatchL33VaNcL33F.exe
Adware.Seekmo - C:\Roll1\setup.exe
Trojan.FakeAlert - Registry Key  HKEY_CLASSES_ROOT\toprates.Video
MalwareTrace - Registry Key HKEY_CURRENT_USER_SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Bind
Disabled.SecurityCenter - Registry Data - HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE_SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Security Center\AntiVirusDisableNotify [Data1]
 Disabled.SecurityCenter - Registry Data - HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE_SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Security Center\FirewallDisableNotify [Data1]

It would be nice if AVAST would indicated what happens to the files in virus chess when the program is deleted and what can be done, if anything.

On my last computer I installed Spybot and got panicked and deleted what I now know is called "false positives" when in a scan many files came up as "viruses".  Since I did not know i deleted these and landed up throwing away the computer as it was not worth fixing because of its age. So much for my computer and Spybot!!!  But image this happening to a new computer????
Thanks
 
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Lisandro on August 13, 2010, 09:06:44 PM
If you want to keep the Chest, copy the whole content of the folder C:\ProgramData\Alwil Software\Avast5\chest.
Uninstall avast, boot, install again, disable the self-defense module of avast (Troubleshooting tab of settings), copy the contents of that folder back, enable the self-defense module.

But I think you won't need that files anymore.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: OmegaWolf747 on September 19, 2010, 10:09:21 PM
Is this the tool that's used to remove 4.8 before installing 5, or is it used to remove 5?
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: DavidR on September 19, 2010, 11:14:06 PM
It is a multi-functional uninstall tool for several avast products including avast 4.8, which can be selected from a drop down list.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: twl845 on September 26, 2010, 01:38:08 PM
Sorry to be slightly off topic, I will be upgrading my Daughter's Avast! from v4.8 to the current v5.677 and would like to ask if I need a removal tool to uninstall v4.8 or can I just uninstall it. Thanks in advance.  :)
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: DavidR on September 26, 2010, 02:38:05 PM
The avast5 installation file is designed to be run/install over the of avast 4.8, so you shouldn't have to do anything. The avast5 installer retains the registration information of 4.8, uninstalls 4.8 and installs avast5 in one action.

Don't pre-empt any problem until it is a reality.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: twl845 on September 26, 2010, 03:44:12 PM
The avast5 installation file is designed to be run/install over the of avast 4.8, so you shouldn't have to do anything. The avast5 installer retains the registration information of 4.8, uninstalls 4.8 and installs avast5 in one action.

Don't pre-empt any problem until it is a reality.
  Way cool! ;D
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: acuariano on December 17, 2010, 08:58:31 PM
got a question,is the l;atest removal tool for avast file always posted on the first page? or where
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Gargamel360 on December 17, 2010, 09:25:50 PM
Here is a direct link for it.>>http://files.avast.com/files/eng/aswclear5.exe (http://files.avast.com/files/eng/aswclear5.exe)

As for where to find it on Avast!'s site, path from the homepage (avast.com) is simply click on "support", then the link you are looking for (labeled "uninstall utility") is located to the right side of the page.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: 2nd base on January 31, 2011, 12:13:34 AM
Will avast 6 do away with the need for a removal tool? I don't want to try it if I don't know what gets re-scribbled in my registry.

 
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: DavidR on January 31, 2011, 01:02:57 AM
There will essentially be a need for an uninstall utility for the occasions when it is required, e.g. the add remove programs function doesn't work due to corruption in the current installation.

Generally you shouldn't need it, but there has to be one should the need arise.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: charley1 on February 01, 2011, 11:13:49 PM
Wouldnt this thread title sound better as "avast 5 uninstall tool" instead of "avast 5 removal tool" .Word "removal" is usually asociated with malware "removal" tools and its really not the case :)
Just a suggestion !

i agaee! That is exactly what i thought it was. I just had a crash using Avast Internet Security and was snooping around for input.  I am not ready to give up yet but i am not as brand loyal as i used to be. The software may be tops but if it is not user friendly or the doccumentation is written in sandscript it probably wont be worth the headaches.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Jack 1000 on February 01, 2011, 11:20:38 PM
There will essentially be a need for an uninstall utility for the occasions when it is required, e.g. the add remove programs function doesn't work due to corruption in the current installation.

Generally you shouldn't need it, but there has to be one should the need arise.

Agree,

You only really need to run the special clean up utility if you have a problem with a program's old removal or a program's new installation, or reinstall.  These clean up utilities are added tools if you have install or removal problems under Windows, Add/Remove Programs.

Jack
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Lars-Erik on March 07, 2011, 10:02:39 PM
Is there a tool to clean up 6.0 to make a clean install of that?
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: doktornotor on March 07, 2011, 10:03:58 PM
Yeah, this one.  ;)
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Lars-Erik on March 07, 2011, 10:13:04 PM
Yeah, this one.  ;)

Que?  That's not logical :-)  Why is it called "avast 5 removal tool" then?
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: doktornotor on March 07, 2011, 10:15:48 PM
Que?  That's not logical :-)  Why is it called "avast 5 removal tool" then?

The OP or moderator would need to change the subject of this thread.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Lars-Erik on March 07, 2011, 10:17:47 PM
What is the difference between the "aswClear.exe" and the aswclear5.exe"?
Both are on avast.com and both say they are for uninstalling avast5
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: doktornotor on March 07, 2011, 10:24:08 PM
"aswClear.exe"

Obsolete, do not use. There is also aswclear6.exe (identical w/ aswclear5.exe).
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Mr.Agent on March 07, 2011, 10:40:19 PM
aswClear6.exe ? I dont see it anywhere.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Lisandro on March 07, 2011, 10:43:41 PM
aswClear6.exe ? I dont see it anywhere.
The version 5 works for it.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: doktornotor on March 07, 2011, 10:44:33 PM
aswClear6.exe ? I dont see it anywhere.

http://www.avast.com/files/eng/aswclear6.exe (as said, it is identical to swclear5.exe, only differs in filename).
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Mr.Agent on March 07, 2011, 10:51:29 PM
Ok... Strange i did not see it live in the website doktor...

Tech what you mean ? U mean there are 6.0 or when u select 5.0 then its uninstall all the 6.0 too ?

I dont want to uninstall just worrying.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: doktornotor on March 07, 2011, 10:55:18 PM
See the completelely pointless confusion, here is a humble suggestion:

- This entire thread would best be deleted
- A fresh sticky one started with a generic "avast! removal tool" subject, linking to the uninstall tool (note next point below) and knowledge base article about the tool
- file on the webserver renamed to generic aswclear.exe and all other references to this file just symlinked to this one (to not break links on websites)

Hmmmm?
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Lisandro on March 07, 2011, 11:09:39 PM
U mean there are 6.0 or when u select 5.0 then its uninstall all the 6.0 too ?
I mean that if you choose version 5 and point it to the version 5 folder, indeed, all traces of version 6 are removed.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Mr.Agent on March 07, 2011, 11:11:56 PM
point it to the version 6*

Thank i understand now.

Doktor good suggestion its could be less confused but can be confused to the old aswClear.exe.

Mr.Agent
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: doktornotor on March 07, 2011, 11:12:16 PM
I mean that if you choose version 5 and point it to the version 5 folder, indeed, all traces of version 6 are removed.

I would suggest you simply select the correct version from the drop-down menu. There is already enough confusion as it is.  :(
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Lisandro on March 07, 2011, 11:17:54 PM
My complete fault.
I did not realize they've updated the tool to remove 6.
Of course, choose 5 for v5 and 6 for v6.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: Mr.Agent on March 07, 2011, 11:19:52 PM
So they only missed to rename the .exe and this thread.

Cool to know.
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: doktornotor on March 07, 2011, 11:21:10 PM
My complete fault.
I did not realize they've updated the tool to remove 6.
Of course, choose 5 for v5 and 6 for v6.

Yeah, as I noted (http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=54385.msg608888#msg608888), this thread has become more confusing than useful (misleading subject, misleading filename, general mess).  :-\
Title: Re: avast 5 removal tool
Post by: spg SCOTT on March 08, 2011, 12:03:17 AM
This thread shouldn't really be pinned anymore...the original discussion was about the location of a tool that worked with five, when it first came out.

Now the location is clearly noted on the website, and it works with all versions of avast. (6 included)