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Consumer Products => Avast Free Antivirus / Premium Security (legacy Pro Antivirus, Internet Security, Premier) => Topic started by: edders on January 06, 2012, 06:34:39 PM

Title: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 06, 2012, 06:34:39 PM
Hi,

My Avast Internet Security trial expired, so I have tried to uninstall following the instructions given with the uninstaller.  Now the internet connection no longer works- it says 'limited access' and 'not connected' (the wi-fi network is fine for other PCs). 

If I try to connect to the internet from the control panel it says 'windows did not detect any networking hardware'.

Only way for me to get the internet to work is to restore the system to before I uninstalled Avast Internet Security.  In this state Avast still does not work- if I try to renew or buy a license, just to get my laptop working again, Windows will ask me three times if Avast can make changes to my hard drive (details says it's the Avast firewall), but then nothing more.  Even after trying to reinstall Internet Security it still stays the same- if I try to turn it on it says 'File System Shield provider not found'

It had been working fine for the month trial period.

I have just ran uninstallers for all the previous AV software I have had- I'm not certain that this had been done properly before the initial installation of the Avast Internet Security trial- it's quite likely it had just been done with the Windows uninstaller.  But even after doing this there is no difference- if I uninstall Avast Internet Security it also removes my internet connection.

I don't know if it matters, but even when I uninstall Avast Internet Security, the wi-fi icon in the tray doesn't revert back to the icon used before Avast.

Windows firewall on or off doesn't seem to make any difference.  I'm using an Acer netbook with Windows 7 starter. 


Please help-  I have been battling with this the whole day now and am at my wits end, and trying the same things over and over.  Any more information I can provide?

Many thanks!

Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: Lisandro on January 06, 2012, 06:40:14 PM
The system restore will mess the avast installation even more.
If you want to use avast again, 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. Or even upgrade (http://www.avast.com/resend-license-paid.php) your key from old versions.
7. Check and post the results. If, for any reason, you did not solve, try doing the step 3 in Safe Mode anyway.

You could follow the steps above for complete uninstallation also.
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: Asyn on January 06, 2012, 06:41:56 PM
Which avast!..?? (Free/Pro/IS)
Which version..??
OS..?? (32/64 Bit - which SP)
Other security related software installed..??
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 06, 2012, 07:15:24 PM
Thanks for the quick replies.

Quote
Which avast!..?? (Free/Pro/IS) Avast Internet Secutity free trial
Which version..?? uninstalled it now- was the latest
OS..?? (32/64 Bit - which SP) Windows 7 Starter, 32 bit, SP1
Other security related software installed..?? McAfee Security Scan Plus (factory installed)

Following the direction from Tech above I have uninstalled from the control panel, and then in safe mode with uninstaller, and then reinstalled Avast Free.  I have done this lots of times already today, but I'm going follow guidance to the letter-

Avast Internet security seems to uninstall fine.  

When I reboot out of safe mode, my wi-fi connection does not come back on line- it searches for a long time, and then displays the red cross.

I have then installed Avast free, which then performs a quick scan and completes installation fine.  

Unfortunately the internet connection is still not there- it displays the strong connections, but says 'Limited Access'.  

This is the same situation I keep arriving at- the only way to get my connection back is to system restore to when Avast Internet Security was in place.  Any ideas?  Many thanks
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: Lisandro on January 06, 2012, 07:33:31 PM
edders, can you check if your ipv4 properties are set to "Automatic" and not for a particular IP and DNS servers?
Can you check in the Acer website your particular network driver to reinstall?
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 06, 2012, 08:18:15 PM
sorry tech, you'll have to help me find my ipv4 properties.  I'm a novice.  I've had a good look and don't seem to be able to find them-  not under internet properties, my network connection page is blank, and my network connection properties when I right click on the tray come up as an error- data invalid.   

Also unsure of network driver.  Can't see any by that name on acer website.  There's wireless LAN drivers, WiMax drivers and LAN drivers, amongst many others, but no network driver.

Excuse my ignorance.
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: Lisandro on January 07, 2012, 01:04:34 AM
Don't worry. I'll help you further when I Will be at Windows.
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: jewelr on January 07, 2012, 05:09:55 PM
There are a few different ways to get there, one is;
Control panel > view network status and task > Wireless network Connection > properties
or
right click your network icon by the time in the task bar and click "open network and sharing center" >  Wireless network Connection > properties

Highlight Internet Protocol Version 4, and click properties
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: Lisandro on January 07, 2012, 06:19:34 PM
Thanks jewelr.
edders, can you follow that?
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: jewelr on January 07, 2012, 06:32:23 PM
Welcome  ;D
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 07, 2012, 09:59:16 PM
Thanks Jewelr & Tech,

I have no wireless connection in the network and sharing centre to get the properties of- "not connected to any networks".  

If I click "connect to network" then it shows the two wi-fi networks I have, but says "Not Connected", and "Connections are available".  It shows the networks, but says "Limited access" next to whichever one I am connected to.

If I try to "set up a new connection or network", >"connect to internet" I am told "windows did not detect any networking hardware".  (There is a box for "show connection options that this computer is not set up to use" clicking this reveals option for Broadband (PPoE) or Dial up.)

I have also tried connecting via an ethernet cable, but it still didn't recognise anything- nothing changes.

So has removal of Avast Internet Security also deleted the drivers which allow windows to recognise my 'networking hardware', whatever that may be?  (actually no need to worry much explaining- just let me know what to try next!  It's very appreciated.)
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: Lisandro on January 08, 2012, 01:40:36 AM
Avast does not mess the network drivers. And if the cable connection failed you have some problems with the network. Tomorrow I'll think in a solution.
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 08, 2012, 09:33:26 AM
I don't think so Tech, the network is working fine for all other PCs. 

This problem only comes when I uninstall Avast Internet Security on one netbook. 

When I restore system to before the uninstall of Avast Internet Security, the internet and network connections come back working perfectly.

Thanks.

Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: CraigB on January 08, 2012, 01:02:52 PM
Have you disabled the windows firewall previously ? After uninstalling AIS is the windows firewall turned on ? if not turned on do so through services setting it to automatic and start then you may have to go to windows firewall and restore defaults.
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 08, 2012, 02:12:56 PM
Thankyou craigb,

I haven't touched the windows firewall before encountering this issue.  Since then I have tried on and off.

I checked and it is 'on' and set to automatic through services.  I have restored the default settings anyway, hope that wasn't a mistake.

One point that may be important?- it says 'home work private networks' 'not connected', and 'Public Networks' 'connected'

Here are just my home and work networks.  I may have set this network as 'Public' with AIS by accident (this was the only time I've ever been asked).  however, I can't check/adjust the properties as the network connection doesn't actually show elsewhere as it should (just shows as available, not connected, and limited access)

Maybe should I restore to before AIS uninstall, and see if it will allow me to adjust the network to 'home/work/private'?  But as I remember when I restore to AIS the program doesn't work- just asks for permission repeatedly.  Will I try this anyway?
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: ady4um on January 08, 2012, 04:20:46 PM
AFAIK, the "public / home" type of network can be chosen in "Network and Sharing center" -> "customize".

In any case, I don't see a problem in connecting, but on the type of connection (its permissions), which are also dependant on other settings in "Network and Sharing center" (on the lower section of the respective window).

Avast doesn't change connection settings (permissions), but the active firewall (which also changes with installation / uninstallation of AIS) and System Restore could.

In addition, Windows Seven Starter has its own restrictions.
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 08, 2012, 07:10:55 PM
Thanks ady4um,

It wont let me change the public/private network selection after uninstall of AIS (it doesn't recognise it properly as a network- customize does not appear)

After system restore to before the uninstall of AIS, public/private network can be selected as described.  Networks are recognised and working.

So my active firewall is Windows Firewall.  The settings for this seem to me to be exactly the same before and after the uninstall of AIS..... with one difference- the network is correctly shown as a Private network and named when AIS is installed.  

After uninstalling AIS the windows Firewall settings recognises my connections now as a 'Public Network' and says 'connected', although the details then shown are as if not connected, and by 'private network' it now says 'not connected'.  I doubt this matters, except to show that it's no longer recognising my network for what it is and isn't properly connected.

I have restored all the default settings for the windows firewall.

I have also tried turning the firewall off altogether.  

Does this eliminate the firewall as a cause?

Is it significant that when I try to set up a new connection that Windows tells me it 'did not detect any networking hardware', even if ethernet cable is plugged in?  This isn't the firewall causing this, or is it?

Many thanks
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 08, 2012, 08:20:08 PM
Where can I access these connection permissions in the 'network and sharing centre'?

Bear in mind it isn't recognising any connection to investigate the properties of.

On the left list I have

Manage wireless networks (this seems the same as normal)
Change adaptor settings (this is blank)
Advanced Sharing Settings (nothing relevant. again it show's I have a public network profile- but as it doesn't fully recognise the network I can find no way to change this.)

On the Main Page I have 'change network settings';
-Set up a new conn. or network (>conn. internet > Windows did not detect any networking hardware)
-Connect to a network (shows right hand conn. signal strength notification)
-Choose Homegroup and Sharing Options (Must be on a network first!)
-Troubleshoot Problems (has no solutions)


None of these allow me to specify or change permissions?

Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: ady4um on January 08, 2012, 09:44:33 PM
First, although it may seem evident, have you rebooted after uninstalling AIS and before testing the network settings?

I would suggest running the removal utility of avast for each and every version you ever had installed (not just the last one). For each run of the removal utility, reboot in between (into Windows Safe Mode)

After the removal utility, you said you don't have (new) network connections really working. Do you have / know the correct settings? If you don't then before uninstalling AIs take note of the supposed correct settings and only then start with the procedure.

Now that you have taken note of the correct settings of your network connections (the ones that should work), and that you already cleaned up all remnants of avast, simply go and manually create new network connections. If you have some "previous" network connections that are supposed to be working, but they don't, then after creating the new ones, go and delete the old ones.

My guess is that something in the System Restore points is somehow corrupted, so your network connection settings are being changed. I am not a developer of avast, but my guess is that AIS (uninstallation) is not changing the network connection settings. Maybe the default settings are activated when you remove Avast Firewall, and the defaults are not good for your situation.

Whatever the case, just use the correct values to create a new connection. That is, if Windows Seven Starter lets you use those specific settings.
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: bob3160 on January 08, 2012, 10:58:11 PM
See if the following will help you:
http://www.tomshardware.com/forum/215-63-change-network-type (http://www.tomshardware.com/forum/215-63-change-network-type)
Scroll down to the reply tagged as best answer.
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 09, 2012, 01:54:33 PM
Thankyou bob3160 and ady4um.

I have rebooted after each stage of the uninstallation.

I am now trying to record my current network connection settings after a system restore to before the AIS uninstall.  The network is operating fine and connected to the internet (albeit unprotected).  

However, the network does not show anywhere. My network connections page is totally blank.  No local area connection icon, no wireless connection icon.  Here is where I expected to be able to find my network connection settings.

So I have opened the cpm and copied the 'ipconfig/all' details into a document.  I think I need to know if these are likely to be the correct settings, or if in fact these too are damaged thus resulting in my network connections page remaining/appearing totally blank even after system restore.

Should I continue with the AIS uninstall and attempt to manually create a network connection with these settings, or try some further investigations of the network before uninistalling, whilst the network is at least accessible and partially visible to ensure I have correct settings?  Any advice?
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: bob3160 on January 09, 2012, 03:07:50 PM
Here is some more help from Microsoft:
http://support.microsoft.com/kb/894543 (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/894543)

There is even a hotfix available. (http://support.microsoft.com/kb/894543#appliesto)
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: ady4um on January 09, 2012, 07:49:56 PM
@edders,

You post is a bit confusing.

This:
Quote
The network is operating fine and connected

seems not so congruent with:
Quote
My network connections page is totally blank

You previously said that before uninstalling AIS, the Network connection being used was visible, but not after uninstalling AIS. Now you are saying something different.

Try to follow the instructions to "record" (take note) of the relevant network connection (settings) when they are visible, and create a new one (with a different name). After uninstalling AIS, use the new connection just created.
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 10, 2012, 07:14:26 PM
Indeed ady4um, I apologise- I'm not so good with the terminology having had no training and piecemeal self education, so please bear with me.  I will try my best ;)

By my network functioning normally I meant that I could access the internet (it's all I use netbook and home netwok for) , and the connection showed properly in the notification window (from the system tray? Bottom right)- it is here that I meant it looks normal, rather than the actual network connections page.  I don't believe my network connections page has been functioning normally since the first uninstallation of AIS- I think it has been totally blank.

Thanks bob3160 for the link.  Unfortunately that was for XP, whilst I'm on Windows 7 Starter.  It did lead me to this page however http://social.technet.microsoft.com/Forums/en-US/itprovistanetworking/thread/19daf9d3-48ef-40c4-82ba-3e8931189486/  

Even though this was for Vista, I have gone through every process detailed on that page with the exception of using the clean boot method.  This is what I think I must try next, as it's the only option I have left to go with.

I'm not sure how to progress immediately next though- I've system restored to before the uninstallation of AIS so the network connection is open, though it's not a 'clean' restore it seems, and AIS doesn't work correctly.  Should I uninstall AIS before I do this clean boot method to try to recover my network connection icons?

If I do, and my connection settings are reset by the firewall change, any subsequent recovery of my network connection icons might not lead me to the correct settings.

On the other hand, I might go through this clean boot process and somehow recover my icons, only to have it all thrown into disarray again by the uninstall of AIS.  (but i guess at least I should have some settings then, and can try to address the lack of icons again if the issue remains)

Clearly I don't have much of a clue as to how all these bits integrate.  Should I uninstall the dodgy AIS (and thereby close my network connections) before I progress any further with this clean boot method?  

Any advice on anything would be welcomed.  I am a little out of my depth, but live in a very rural location and professional help isn't an option for at least another week.

If all else fails I've noticed the reset to factory settings button  :o  Could be a drastic but pragmatic solution? Does this reset to before the OS was installed? I have no way to reinstall windows

Many thanks
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: bob3160 on January 10, 2012, 07:28:59 PM
Quote
Does this reset to before the OS was installed?
It will reset your computer to the way it was when you first brought it home.
You would loose any personal settings and any programs that were installed.
You would also need to do all the updates that happened since you brought your system home.
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: ady4um on January 10, 2012, 07:30:39 PM
First, beware! The "factory defaults reset" will probably wipe any personal documents or data. So before such a drastic action, you should have a backup.

I don't think you need to go that far though. If you have the Network Connection working (not the tray icon, but the actual Network Connection which can be configurable with all sort of settings) then write down the settings of that currently working settings.

With those settings, manually create a new connection (Network and Sharing Center -> "set up a connection or network"). Then uninstall AIS and reboot. I repeat one more time that the uninstallation of AIS should NOT touch your network connections, specially this one that you manually are about to create.

I'm sorry to say that there is not so much that we can say here in the forum. We can guide you, but there is a certain limit as how much we can go by just posting in a forum.

If the manual creation of a new network connection with the correct settings won't help (or is not possible), you should try to find the correct settings from you Internet Service Provider (ISP), just as the first time you set it up in this particular system.

Maybe someone else has some additional suggestions or some additional method so to find out why this is happening to you.
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 10, 2012, 07:46:03 PM
If you have the Network Connection working (not the tray icon, but the actual Network Connection which can be configurable with all sort of settings) then write down the settings of that currently working settings.
Thanks for your help ady4um.  So this is my problem- the lack of a proper configurable connection. 

I'm assuming that the ipconfig/all info doesn't contain the settings I need?

I am trying the earliest system restore point I have to see if the connections work, and then will try this clean boot method.

I will worry about uninstalling AIS and installing virus protection last of all.
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: ady4um on January 10, 2012, 07:56:39 PM
What I can't understand is how is it possible that you are connecting to the Internet (before uninstalling AIS) but there is no network connection. You may not see it, but it should be, somewhere. Either there is "some" type of connection, or you are wrong about having been able to connect to the Internet in such situation.

The ipconfig is not enough. You need the settings from your ISP to set a correct Network Connection.

All this is valid, assuming your Network drivers (wired and/or not) are working correctly.
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 10, 2012, 08:17:42 PM
Well it's certainly connected- checked on the bbc news (I don't have active anti virus, so I've only checked here), but I certainly can't find that connection.

And if I try to set up a new connection like this it still says 'windows did not detect any networking hardware'

I have noticed that my device manager page/folder is also totally blank/empty. (my computer> properties> device manager).  This seems strange to me.  Is it so?
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: ady4um on January 10, 2012, 10:09:25 PM
Well it's certainly connected- checked on the bbc news (I don't have active anti virus, so I've only checked here), but I certainly can't find that connection.

What do you mean "can't find"? Can you attach please a screenshot of the "Network Connections" Window (where the connections should be displayed)?

Quote
And if I try to set up a new connection like this it still says 'windows did not detect any networking hardware'

If you don't have network hardware (drivers), then you can't connect. Sounds logic, doesn't it? So if you are able to connect, you should have some kind of network hardware, either wired or not.

Quote
I have noticed that my device manager page/folder is also totally blank/empty. (my computer> properties> device manager).  This seems strange to me.  Is it so?

Yes, it is strange. Unless you are using some "guest" Windows user account, but even in such situation, device manager wouldn't open at all.
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: bob3160 on January 10, 2012, 11:11:07 PM
Well it's certainly connected- checked on the bbc news (I don't have active anti virus, so I've only checked here), but I certainly can't find that connection.

And if I try to set up a new connection like this it still says 'windows did not detect any networking hardware'

I have noticed that my device manager page/folder is also totally blank/empty. (my computer> properties> device manager).  This seems strange to me.  Is it so?
For the empty device manager you could try the following:
http://redfireworkz.blogspot.com/2010/10/device-manager-empty-or-blank.html (http://redfireworkz.blogspot.com/2010/10/device-manager-empty-or-blank.html)
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 11, 2012, 10:44:48 AM
Thanks ady4um

Quote
Can you attach please a screenshot of the "Network Connections" Window (where the connections should be displayed)?
File attached.  I've also brought up the notification window so that you can see the networks exist, but as you can see the folder is empty.

This is after system restore to when AIS was installed. After AIS uninstallation the notification window still shows the networks, but says not connected in the upper portion.  The lower portion (with the networks and bars) looks like it is connected (ie offers to disconnect), but says limited connectivity.  So it seems the hardware is still communicating with Windows on some level at least, even if Windows can not detect it when I try to set up a new network connection.

If it's relevant- when uninstalling AIS the connection remains open until the system is restarted.  But I guess that this just reflects the resetting of whatever settings caused this issue.

I suppose the question is what could AIS uninstall affect that disrupts Windows recognition of networking hardware and 'my devices'? Folk have said nothing....  drivers are not touched, but this issue wasn't present before AIS at all.....????

Would I be correct to hope that once the networking hardware is recognised, that the network connection icons might reappear?

Also it doesn't help that I don't have a non corrupted system restore point which shows my networking hardware and devices- the earlier one disappeared overnight and I can't remember if I had tried it previously.


Quote
For the empty device manager you could try the following:
http://redfireworkz.blogspot.com/2010/10/device-manager-empty-or-blank.html
Thanks bob3160, I will go through this next before I try this clean boot method, which sounds very slow.



Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: ady4um on January 11, 2012, 04:33:13 PM
If you click on "Open Network and Sharing Center", does it open? Can you post a screenshot of the Network and Sharing Center? Please include the upper part with the connections and the lower part with the Windows settings for connections. If you can't in one screenshot, take 2 and attach them both please.

In addition, in your control panel, do you have any other applet (window, option, dialog...) for unwired connections (wi-fi, bluetooth and so on)?
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 11, 2012, 11:05:15 PM
Thanks ady4um,

Screen shot of my network and sharing centre is attached. Not sure if there are further settings I should reveal for you there?  I can't find any.  After uninstalling Avast it shows a red cross in the upper part instead of my ISP, and doesn't show a connection in the section below.  

In my Control Panel I can't see any applet as you describe- just the network and internet option.


Quote
Quote
For the empty device manager you could try the following:
http://redfireworkz.blogspot.com/2010/10/device-manager-empty-or-blank.html
Thanks bob3160, I will go through this next before I try this clean boot method, which sounds very slow.
This was not successful.  Enum settings are already as described.
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: ady4um on January 12, 2012, 07:46:21 AM
So you have some "PlusWireless (Home Network)" connection.

In such situation, you have over the left panel an option called "Manage wireless networks". You should find the "PlusWireless" connection there. Do you see it there? Can you see / review its settings?
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 12, 2012, 07:47:31 PM
thanks ady4um,

I can enter the 'manage wireless networks' page, but can not access any properties of the connections.  Adaptor properties button is dead.  Right click on a network >properties displays an 'error saving wireless profile' message.

If I try to set up a new connection it says successfully added, yet if investigate the settings I get the same error message (screenshot attached).

Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: ady4um on January 12, 2012, 08:04:46 PM
So, if I understand correctly, you are unable to create a new *working* wireless network connection?

Just for more information, are you using a Windows Account with administrative privileges? (The Windows user account, whether administrator or not, should NOT be a reason for the properties to fail. This question is only relevant for potential next steps).

This seems to be some deeper issue (like drivers corruption and registry corruption).

Please report back.
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: essexboy on January 12, 2012, 09:10:17 PM
Just having a thunk on this... It appears that windows is not recognising the data input for the new wireless connections, this is the area which I will research first
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 12, 2012, 09:20:55 PM
Quote
you are unable to create a new *working* wireless network connection?
This would seem to be the case.  Although I feel I'm not entering very much info when I manually set up this connection though-

Network Name
Security Type
Encryption Type
Security Key

I thought I was looking for more detailed connection settings than this (I haven't needed to manually connect before), so maybe I haven't completed the set up?  Anyway, I click next after setting the above information, and virtually instantly the window says successfully added (maybe too quickly).  But beyond that it does not seem functional and I can not access any further settings.

To confirm, I am the administrator account (the only user account).  

edit: Thanks for joining in essexboy
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: essexboy on January 12, 2012, 09:29:49 PM
You are running windows 7 is that correct ?

If so right click the network icon on the task bar and select troubleshoot
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 12, 2012, 11:23:27 PM
Yes essexboy, Window 7 Starter.

Troubleshooting says it tested the internet connection and it works.  I clicked 'I'm having a different problem' and chose the 'use specific network adaptor' option. 

Now is when I start to think that I've had too long a day-  I've got two different troubleshooting reports.  The first time I ran the trouble shooter it identified a 'Problem with the wireless adaptor or access point'.  I have the troubleshooting log saved, but unfortunately not the 'network diagnostics log' that it refers to.  Let me know if you'd like to see it.

I ran the troubleshooter again whilst exploring the options.  This time 'no issues detected'.  ???  Nor on subsequent attempts.

Looking through that second report there seems to be a problem with the power saving setting on my access point, which should be changed to medium, but I doubt this is the source of my problems. 

It's been a long day for me and I might have done something different the first time I ran the troubleshooter, so I'll try it again in the morning and see which of us is consistent (I'd rather it did find a problem!)



Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: essexboy on January 12, 2012, 11:29:54 PM
Aye have a good nights kip as things will make more sense then  ;D
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 16, 2012, 05:05:30 PM
OK, so after a weekends rest away from the frustration I can safely say that the troubleshooter can not identify the problem, even after many attempts.  I'm not sure what the false positive was last week as I have been unable to replicate it.

Incidentally my ISP has just sent me an email offering me some new connection management software.  This: http://www.plus.net/support/assist/help.shtml?WT.mc_id=e_ast_201112_01&link=faq

It did cross my mind to try  and install this to see if it could somehow identify my internet connections/properties/settings, and may be even solve the problem and preserve them to let me reconnect after I uninstall AIS.  

Is this just wishful thinking?  It sounds like the kind of thing an amateur might do, to their later dismay as it causes far more problems.  Should I forget it for the minute?

I've no idea what to try next.  Advice gratefully received.
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: essexboy on January 16, 2012, 08:14:02 PM
Lets see what Farbar has to say prior to installing the new software

run farbar service scanner (http://download.bleepingcomputer.com/farbar/FSS.exe)

(http://i1238.photobucket.com/albums/ff484/CompCav/Farbarservicesinternetticked-2.jpg)
Tick "Internet services" and "Windows Firewall" options.
Press "Scan".
It will create a log (FSS.txt) in the same directory the tool is run.

Please copy and paste the log to your reply.
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 16, 2012, 10:21:33 PM
Thanks essexboy,

is this the right log info?  Nothing interesting here?


Farbar Service Scanner
Ran by Dan (administrator) on 16-01-2012 at 21:15:32
Microsoft Windows 7 Starter  Service Pack 1 (X86)
Boot Mode: Normal
****************************************************************

Internet Services:
============

Connection Status:
==============
Localhost is accessible.
LAN connected.
Google IP is accessible.
Yahoo IP is accessible.


Windows Firewall:
=============

Firewall Disabled Policy:
==================


File Check:
========
C:\Windows\system32\nsisvc.dll => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\Drivers\nsiproxy.sys => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\dhcpcore.dll => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\Drivers\afd.sys => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\Drivers\tdx.sys => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\Drivers\tcpip.sys => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\dnsrslvr.dll => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\mpssvc.dll => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\bfe.dll => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\Drivers\mpsdrv.sys => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\svchost.exe => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\rpcss.dll => MD5 is legit
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: essexboy on January 16, 2012, 10:36:56 PM
OK try the new software then - as all looks good there
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 17, 2012, 08:39:52 PM
Well things are no better, worse even.

I have installed the 'Plusnet Assist Software' from my internet provider.  At the same time I found out that they offer me a McAffee based internet security/anti virus programme (Plusnet Protect) for free, so I stuck that on too.

The Plusnet Assist ran happily in the background whilst AIS was still installed (although expired and turned off).  The actual interface with the software seems to be a webpage- I don't recollect anywhere to verify the actual connection settings that I'm looking for.  The new Plusnet Protect antivirus indicated that it could auto remove some antivirus versions, so thought it might not hurt to stick it on without fully uninstalling AIS.  However it wouldn't install with AIS 6 still present, so I proeeeded to uninstall AIS again.

This time the Windows uninstall 'stalled' at the registry section.  After 6 hours it had progressed no further with the uninstallation, and it wouldn't close or cancel so I had to turn off.  I completed the uninstallation with the tool in safe mode and rebooted.

Now I have no AIS and again no longer have any internet connection.

The Plusnet Assist software kicks in when I try to access the internet, and first asks me to restart my router.  When I click 'next' or 'skip' it then says 'Connection check, unexpected error.  Plusnet Assist encountered a technical issue trying to diagnose the problem.... please restart Plusnet Assist and try again'.  Restarting the software is fruitless- the same thing again.  So a fat lot of good that software was.

So what can I try next?

Should I try and do a system restore once more to get AIS back on and reopen the connections?

Hope this all makes sense.  It's tricky when I'm not confident with the language.  

Many thanks
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: essexboy on January 17, 2012, 09:12:52 PM
Now this does not really make sense as an uninstall of AIS should release all firewall rule

Could you run a Farbar scan prior to restore and then a second one after the restore.  Post both here so that I can compare 
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 17, 2012, 10:03:40 PM
Thanks essexboy,

I don't really know what I'm talking about, but the firewall wouldn't affect Windows recognising of all my networking hardware, or could it?

Anyway, I've run Farbar before and after.  Here are the results

Before system restore, after uninstalling AIS

Farbar Service Scanner
Ran by Dan (administrator) on 17-01-2012 at 20:43:11
Microsoft Windows 7 Starter  Service Pack 1 (X86)
Boot Mode: Normal
****************************************************************

Internet Services:
============

Connection Status:
==============
Localhost is accessible.
There is no connection to network.
Google IP is accessible.
Yahoo IP is accessible.


Windows Firewall:
=============

Firewall Disabled Policy:
==================


File Check:
========
C:\Windows\system32\nsisvc.dll => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\Drivers\nsiproxy.sys => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\dhcpcore.dll => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\Drivers\afd.sys => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\Drivers\tdx.sys => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\Drivers\tcpip.sys => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\dnsrslvr.dll => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\mpssvc.dll => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\bfe.dll => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\Drivers\mpsdrv.sys => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\svchost.exe => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\rpcss.dll => MD5 is legit


**** End of log ****


After system restore, AIS installed

Farbar Service Scanner
Ran by Dan (administrator) on 17-01-2012 at 20:55:51
Microsoft Windows 7 Starter  Service Pack 1 (X86)
Boot Mode: Normal
****************************************************************

Internet Services:
============

Connection Status:
==============
Localhost is accessible.
LAN connected.
Google IP is accessible.
Yahoo IP is accessible.


Windows Firewall:
=============

Firewall Disabled Policy:
==================


File Check:
========
C:\Windows\system32\nsisvc.dll => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\Drivers\nsiproxy.sys => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\dhcpcore.dll => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\Drivers\afd.sys
[2011-08-12 09:08] - [2011-04-25 02:18] - 0338944 ____A (Microsoft Corporation)

C:\Windows\system32\Drivers\tdx.sys => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\Drivers\tcpip.sys => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\dnsrslvr.dll => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\mpssvc.dll => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\bfe.dll => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\Drivers\mpsdrv.sys => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\svchost.exe => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\rpcss.dll => MD5 is legit


**** End of log ****
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: essexboy on January 17, 2012, 10:33:35 PM
OK here is the intriguing bit before the restore there is no LAN access yet the afd.sys is legit. After the restore there is LAN access yet the afd.sys shows an unusual MD5

I think I might ask PK to look at this   

Connection Status:
==============
Localhost is accessible.
There is no connection to network.
Google IP is accessible.
Yahoo IP is accessible.
C:\Windows\system32\Drivers\afd.sys => MD5 is legit


Connection Status:
==============
Localhost is accessible.
LAN connected.
Google IP is accessible.
Yahoo IP is accessible.
C:\Windows\system32\Drivers\afd.sys
[2011-08-12 09:08] - [2011-04-25 02:18] - 0338944 ____A (Microsoft Corporation)

Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 17, 2012, 11:04:17 PM
I just ran Farbar again as I noticed that the MD5 was fine in the restored state I ran Farbar for you last week.  This time there was no unusual MD5.

Farbar Service Scanner
Ran by Dan (administrator) on 17-01-2012 at 21:56:37
Microsoft Windows 7 Starter  Service Pack 1 (X86)
Boot Mode: Normal
****************************************************************

Internet Services:
============

Connection Status:
==============
Localhost is accessible.
LAN connected.
Google IP is accessible.
Yahoo IP is accessible.


Windows Firewall:
=============

Firewall Disabled Policy:
==================


File Check:
========
C:\Windows\system32\nsisvc.dll => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\Drivers\nsiproxy.sys => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\dhcpcore.dll => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\Drivers\afd.sys => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\Drivers\tdx.sys => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\Drivers\tcpip.sys => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\dnsrslvr.dll => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\mpssvc.dll => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\bfe.dll => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\Drivers\mpsdrv.sys => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\svchost.exe => MD5 is legit
C:\Windows\system32\rpcss.dll => MD5 is legit


**** End of log ****



I wish this one hadn't come up clear  :-\
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: essexboy on January 17, 2012, 11:17:16 PM
Still get PK to look at it though
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 20, 2012, 07:41:54 PM
So no more ideas guys?  I clicked the 'send to support' button down there, but nothing has happened.  Is there anything more I could do to get help?

To recap;
-The wireless signal is strong and the internet connection works.
-the network connection still shows in the 'network and sharing centre', but not the 'network connections' page. 
- but the Windows 'set up connection' process also fails to recognise any networking hardware.
-This is with Avast Internet Security installed again after a system restore.  Uninstalling AIS will also take away the internet functionality of the connection.  This will also make the connection invisible to the 'network and sharing centre'.  However the notification tray does identify the connection, albeit as limited .
-Turning off or resetting firewall makes no difference

I've been playing with this new Plusnet Assist software from my internet provider to try and identify my settings, but it wont even recognise a wireless signal (despite the connection to the web page interface being over wireless!).  Clicking their 'ready for wireless' button tells me;
'We've detected that your computer does not have wireless capability. If you want to use wireless connection on this computer you'll need to purchase a wireless USB adaptor or card before you can go online wirelessly...blah blah'

And their 'PC healthcheck' button tells me:
'! Wireless Signal Strength
Checks the signal strength of your router.
Signal strength is quite weak. Check that your PC is equipped with wireless adapter and it is enabled.
'

So AIS is somehow preventing Windows or any other software from recognising my networking hardware and the connections associated with it, despite the fact that the connection retains some functionality.  And when AIS goes, so does that functionality.  AIS is the key!

Any new ideas folks?  I've not really progressed any further yet, except to be slightly better at describing my issues and even then not much!
Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: edders on January 23, 2012, 10:58:02 PM
Well this is sad.  So I'm going to have to take my netbook to an expensive professional and hour and  half's drive away just to undo the damage AIS has done and get it uninstalled successfully without further destroying my network connections?  :-\





Title: Re: help! Avast Internet Security trial expired, no internet connection
Post by: emmeff on April 06, 2012, 04:26:42 AM
Hi.

Any progress with this? I've had the same issue as the OP for about a week. My trial licence for AIS was coming to an end so I selected the 'change back to Avast free antivirus' link. Since then, I've had no access to the network or wireless adapters. Re-installing drivers hasn't helped, and I've removed Avast entirely, even to the point of weeding through registry entries.

At this stage, it looks like I'll have to re-install Windows, with all of the effort that follows. I used to think Avast was a good piece of kit.