Avast WEBforum

Consumer Products => Avast Free Antivirus / Premium Security (legacy Pro Antivirus, Internet Security, Premier) => Topic started by: MartinZ on November 15, 2018, 05:28:48 PM

Title: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: MartinZ on November 15, 2018, 05:28:48 PM
Good news everyone,
new stable version 18.8.2356 has just been released.
 

- fixed critical vulnerability
- last version for Windows XP/Vista


How to install:

1. Update from your existing Avast version via Settings -> Update -> Update program

2. Or you can download and install from here

Online installers (recommended):

http://files.avast.com/iavs9x/avast_free_antivirus_setup.exe

http://files.avast.com/iavs9x/avast_internet_security_setup.exe

http://files.avast.com/iavs9x/avast_premier_antivirus_setup.exe

Offline installers:

http://files.avast.com/iavs9x/avast_free_antivirus_setup_offline.exe

http://files.avast.com/iavs9x/avast_internet_security_setup_offline.exe

http://files.avast.com/iavs9x/avast_premier_antivirus_setup_offline.exe

We hope you enjoy the new version!
AVAST Team
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: TheOwner on November 15, 2018, 08:25:37 PM
Hi,
when I disable all shields and I click on shields in tray icon, it still offer me disable each shied, but they are already disabled.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: menziller on November 16, 2018, 08:57:32 AM
Despite always disabling automatic program upgrades (I usually prefer manual ones), my Avast Free Antivirus seems to have upgraded, yesterday, of his own will: today, at boot time (win 10 64), it prompted me announcing the (already) performed upgrade and asking me the usual installation-time questions.

I can not categorically swear, but I'm quite sure I did not enable automatic updates (I never do) and I'm quite sure, also, that Avast did not notify me (as usual) the availability of a new version.

Is there any reason for such an unusual behaviour?
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: Asyn on November 16, 2018, 09:20:47 AM
Is there any reason for such an unusual behaviour?
Most probably because of: "- fixed critical vulnerability"
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: Avaster654457 on November 16, 2018, 09:36:18 AM
Really nice to see the auto connect for the VPN

The GUI also seems a bit faster

Could you add a "kill-stiwch" feature  which is very common on a lot of other VPNs to prevent leaks in your secure connection

You have added an option to the "you are now connected to VPN" or whatever popup to not show again, please add this option to when you run a scan and minimize the program because its so, so annoying having it pop up every time

Whenever you run a scan can you allow the users to see the scanning process; like what file it is actually scanning, how many threats/viruses have been detected etc, which is every other anti virus / anti malwere program i have ever tried expect avast
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: NON on November 16, 2018, 01:47:15 PM
Thanks for the new release :)
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: Pako7 on November 16, 2018, 02:19:00 PM
now i cannot extract anything from winrar ....Avast seems to have blocked the app ..i tried clicking allow on the pop up that appears ehich says avast has blocked the app ...but it did not work
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: Asyn on November 16, 2018, 02:55:15 PM
now i cannot extract anything from winrar ....Avast seems to have blocked the app ..i tried clicking allow on the pop up that appears ehich says avast has blocked the app ...but it did not work
Post a screenshot.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: DavidR on November 16, 2018, 03:59:12 PM
now i cannot extract anything from winrar ....Avast seems to have blocked the app ..i tried clicking allow on the pop up that appears ehich says avast has blocked the app ...but it did not work

I don't see why Avast would be interested in doing this unless there was an issue with it (suspect, etc.).  I don't use winrar, but use 7zip (or plain old .zip files) and avast isn't impacting that (or those).

As Asyn said a screenshot would be helpful.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: REDACTED on November 16, 2018, 05:25:39 PM
Hello,

I have 5 Computers ,which i cant get my hands on yet, with the free Version. All Computers doesnt run under an Administrator Accout. Will Avast Auto Update this critical Patch even if not running under an Admin Account?
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: MartinZ on November 16, 2018, 05:54:01 PM
if they aren't on manual updates then yes, we deliver it there
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: REDACTED on November 16, 2018, 06:18:19 PM
ok thanks i have not changed the default settings when installing avast so it should be on auto, right?
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: menziller on November 16, 2018, 06:24:31 PM
Most probably because of: "- fixed critical vulnerability"

Thanks for your answer.
I understand the reason.
Maybe in such situations it would be useful to show the user, when automatic upgrades are disabled, a warning message announcing the forced upgrade and the reason behind it.
Just to prevent the user from worrying about possible malfunctions or intrusions; the main goal of Avast, after all, is security, caution and prevention, isn't it?
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: MartinZ on November 16, 2018, 06:32:05 PM
yes it is, and that's the reason why the automatic updates is the default option. so if user changed to manual updates, it should be fine just to remind there is a new version
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: menziller on November 16, 2018, 08:09:46 PM
yes it is, and that's the reason why the automatic updates is the default option. so if user changed to manual updates, it should be fine just to remind there is a new version

Well, as far as I know one of the most important precautionary "rules", when talking software, is to avoid hasty upgrades to new versions, which notoriously can always bring some problems. Especially with programs that are crucial for the proper functioning of the system. Which does not mean, of course, "never upgrade" but just means... wait a little, learn what the upgrade provides, check if problems or regressions are reported and then upgrade. So the user who chooses manual updates, in my humble opinion, does not necessarily deserve to be considered a "bad" user or a user who needs some kind of "education".

I totally agree with your statement "it should be fine just to remind there is a new version".
In this case, however, Avast did not tell me "there is a new version" but it told me "there is a new version in your computer", already installed and running, whether you like it or not. Which is quite different.  :)
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: schmidthouse on November 16, 2018, 08:30:29 PM
Downloaded the 'off line Installer' for AIS
Last version for XP/vista......Going to want to keep this set up file saved ;)
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: Asyn on November 17, 2018, 05:44:41 AM
ok thanks i have not changed the default settings when installing avast so it should be on auto, right?
Yes.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: Vitdom on November 17, 2018, 04:37:17 PM
When is the New Settings look and feel going to be released?
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: DavidR on November 17, 2018, 06:57:04 PM
Downloaded the 'off line Installer' for AIS
Last version for XP/vista......Going to want to keep this set up file saved ;)

I think that Avast need to do some work before this can be considered (saving the last of-line version) ready to split off XP.  For the last three versions 18.6, 18.7 and 18.8 AvastSvc.exe has a CPU problem, certainly on my system. 

In 18.6 after a few days use (no restart) I was finding AvastSvc.exe at 50% (occasionally higher) when there was no other activity reported on the Task Manager.  Closing down all other user programs made no difference avastsvc.exe sat there on 50% CPU.  The only solution was to reboot and wait for it to happen again.

When 18.7 was released I did a clean reinstall, but that too made no difference at some point the avastsvc.exe CPU spiked and remained at 50% or more.  Even with 50% remaining it had a massive impact on other running programs. Firefox in particular.

So I may need to go even further back than 18.6 and not 18.8.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: schmidthouse on November 17, 2018, 08:08:02 PM
Downloaded the 'off line Installer' for AIS
Last version for XP/vista......Going to want to keep this set up file saved ;)

I think that Avast need to do some work before this can be considered (saving the last of-line version) ready to split off XP.  For the last three versions 18.6, 18.7 and 18.8 AvastSvc.exe has a CPU problem, certainly on my system. 

In 18.6 after a few days use (no restart) I was finding AvastSvc.exe at 50% (occasionally higher) when there was no other activity reported on the Task Manager.  Closing down all other user programs made no difference avastsvc.exe sat there on 50% CPU.  The only solution was to reboot and wait for it to happen again.

When 18.7 was released I did a clean reinstall, but that too made no difference at some point the avastsvc.exe CPU spiked and remained at 50% or more.  Even with 50% remaining it had a massive impact on other running programs. Firefox in particular.

So I may need to go even further back than 18.6 and not 18.8.

Hi David
That certainly sounds discomforting and has no doubt caused you much dissatisfaction.

I have not seen that on my XP system and have the latest version installed.
I use my XP for very specific limited tasks (sometimes online). My system has 2GB of RAM and for me the BIGGEST issue I have is the amount of RAM used in the functioning of the GUI
I have repeated mentioned/Asked if the developers could 'lighten up' the GUI for those xp users with limited RAM
To this point 'never' have got a response.

Edit: I should add that to minimize system resources impact by Avast I only install File and Web Shields.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: DavidR on November 17, 2018, 09:23:30 PM
<snip quotes>
Hi David
That certainly sounds discomforting and has no doubt caused you much dissatisfaction.

I have not seen that on my XP system and have the latest version installed.
I use my XP for very specific limited tasks (sometimes online). My system has 2GB of RAM and for me the BIGGEST issue I have is the amount of RAM used in the functioning of the GUI
I have repeated mentioned/Asked if the developers could 'lighten up' the GUI for those xp users with limited RAM
To this point 'never' have got a response.

It is more of an inconvenience (pain in the backside) the hope being that the last version to support XP/Vista would be bug free/bullet proof, instead it has issues, certainly for me.   

A long time ago I always shut down the system every night, so it may not get to the point of requiring a reboot to resolve the high CPU state of avastsvc.exe.

As I said even after closing all the normal programs run by the user the CPU doesn't drop, so I did capture a screenshot.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: bob3160 on November 17, 2018, 10:35:09 PM
I may help to shutdown the system a bit more often.
Many things build up in the background.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: DavidR on November 17, 2018, 11:22:20 PM
I may help to shutdown the system a bit more often.
Many things build up in the background.

This system has been pretty stable (and fast) for a considerable time it is only recently around the 18.6 program version and outside of avast very little has changed.

The main problem all of the CPU activity is down to AvastSvc.exe and it is still there when I close the programs that I regularly and certainly all browser, email, internet activity (those that generate activity that avast is likely to be scanning) and yet the AvastSvc.exe doesn't release/reduce the CPU activity. 

This is why I posted the screenshot which only shows 3 process names with any activity:
1.  System Idle Process (49%), which isn't actually using any CPU but reporting what is available.
2.  AvastSvc.exe (48%).
3.  System (2%).

Essentially if there is no other activity avast (avastsvc.exe) shouldn't be scanning.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: maxxp on November 18, 2018, 07:39:11 AM
It is 3 or 4 new avast version  but unsecapp.exe is still being started up  >:(
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: Asyn on November 18, 2018, 07:42:50 AM
When is the New Settings look and feel going to be released?
Afaik, it's planned for V19.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: predatorz on November 19, 2018, 09:00:49 AM
Update to 18.8.2356 successfully from clicking on Update for Program.
:)
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: DavidR on November 19, 2018, 10:14:07 AM
Downloaded the 'off line Installer' for AIS
Last version for XP/vista......Going to want to keep this set up file saved ;)

I think that Avast need to do some work before this can be considered (saving the last of-line version) ready to split off XP.  For the last three versions 18.6, 18.7 and 18.8 AvastSvc.exe has a CPU problem, certainly on my system. 

In 18.6 after a few days use (no restart) I was finding AvastSvc.exe at 50% (occasionally higher) when there was no other activity reported on the Task Manager.  Closing down all other user programs made no difference avastsvc.exe sat there on 50% CPU.  The only solution was to reboot and wait for it to happen again.

When 18.7 was released I did a clean reinstall, but that too made no difference at some point the avastsvc.exe CPU spiked and remained at 50% or more.  Even with 50% remaining it had a massive impact on other running programs. Firefox in particular.

So I may need to go even further back than 18.6 and not 18.8.

Well I have done a clean install (last night before midnight as the cpu spike occurred again), going back to Avast Free version 18.5.2342 and we will have to see how this goes.  But for me this issue warranted removal of 18.8.2356, the spikes were becoming more frequent.

It is 3 or 4 new avast version  but unsecapp.exe is still being started up  >:(

I had noticed that, but I couldn't pin this down as a possible cause.  However, having gone back to 18.5.2342 on this XP Pro system, I haven't seen unsecapp.exe in the task manager, but it is still very early to see if it running is directly related to avast or if it will come back with 18.5.2342 installed also.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: lukor on November 19, 2018, 11:52:18 AM
It is 3 or 4 new avast version  but unsecapp.exe is still being started up  >:(

Hi maxxp, is the unsecapp.exe using a big amount of resources (CPU or Memory) ? AFAIK it is part of the windows implementation of WMI. Windows starts this process if an app wants to receive async callback about various events, like devices, windows services, running processes, networking. It is not started by Avast directly. My understanding is, that asynchronous callbacks are favorable over constant polling - which might, however, remove the unsecapp.exe from the process list.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: midnight on November 19, 2018, 01:13:07 PM
I'm not going to update for a week or maybe longer.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: Asyn on November 19, 2018, 01:16:10 PM
I'm not going to update for a week or maybe longer.
As this version fixed a critical vulnerability, I'd suggest to update asap.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: midnight on November 19, 2018, 01:19:57 PM
I won't be updating today but maybe tomorrow.  I always uninstall the previous version then install the new version.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: Asyn on November 19, 2018, 01:35:18 PM
I won't be updating today but maybe tomorrow.  I always uninstall the previous version then install the new version.
OK, do as you like.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: Pako7 on November 19, 2018, 04:06:29 PM
now i cannot extract anything from winrar ....Avast seems to have blocked the app ..i tried clicking allow on the pop up that appears ehich says avast has blocked the app ...but it did not work

this is exactly what happens ever since i updated my avast , tried pressing allow but nothing is happening
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: DavidR on November 19, 2018, 04:15:53 PM
@ Pako7
It would be very helpful if you cropped images (and resized) to the relevant information, not full screen, etc. this doesn't easily fit on most screens and entails a lot of scrolling to see everything.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: Pako7 on November 19, 2018, 05:31:09 PM
ayt point taken thanks
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: Pondus on November 19, 2018, 05:56:11 PM
seems to be ransomware shield blocking it ?

Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: midnight on November 19, 2018, 06:04:52 PM
I won't be updating today but maybe tomorrow.  I always uninstall the previous version then install the new version.
OK, do as you like.
If some people are having problems with this new version I'm not going to update yet.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: bob3160 on November 19, 2018, 07:24:32 PM
This is the support forum. Most of the posts her will be from people who have a problem.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: DavidR on November 19, 2018, 07:44:28 PM
I won't be updating today but maybe tomorrow.  I always uninstall the previous version then install the new version.
OK, do as you like.
If some people are having problems with this new version I'm not going to update yet.

As we have said many times, get yourself a backup and recovery strategy in place and you can try almost anything.  If it doesn't work, then it shouldn't be a great problem to roll back to your backup images, etc. 

As Bob said, this is a support forum, what would you expect to find here.  There must be thousands of different permutations of peoples systems, they may or may not match yours.  The only way to find out if it is OK on your system is to try it (having your backup and recovery strategy in place).

I have had a problem that has required me to drop back (clean reinstall) to Avast Free version 18.5.2342.  The problem that I have experienced I would guess is more likely to impact those using win XP as I haven't had this issue (high CPU usage by AvastSvc.exe) on my win10 system.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: Pako7 on November 19, 2018, 08:23:25 PM
I won't be updating today but maybe tomorrow.  I always uninstall the previous version then install the new version.
OK, do as you like.
If some people are having problems with this new version I'm not going to update yet.

Ohh thats great you are ...it is i just noticed .

but why all of a sudden the  ransomware shield is blocking it?? aso what can i do??? remove my Documents and Desktop from ransomware shield?? il be left unprotected ....what can i do??
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: DavidR on November 19, 2018, 09:10:13 PM
I won't be updating today but maybe tomorrow.  I always uninstall the previous version then install the new version.
OK, do as you like.
If some people are having problems with this new version I'm not going to update yet.

Ohh thats great you are ...it is i just noticed .

but why all of a sudden the  ransomware shield is blocking it?? aso what can i do??? remove my Documents and Desktop from ransomware shield?? il be left unprotected ....what can i do??

Don't relay of only one thing to protect you.

The old adage 'if you don't want to lose it, back it/them up.'  A robust backup and recovery strategy, hard disk imaging, etc. saved to an off-line storage drive.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: bob3160 on November 19, 2018, 09:13:29 PM
I have the free version Ransome Shield isn't part of the protection offered.
I still feel very safe. If you protect a folder, you have to be prepared to make changes to your settings
whenever you want to change things in that protected folder.


Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356 - Result of attempt to install Free on Windows XP SP3
Post by: loungehake on November 19, 2018, 10:59:43 PM
I initiated the update from the Avast GUI. All went OK but on restarting, instup.exe halted with a brief message about a 'Hard Error'.  I then attempted to run System Restore from 45 minutes before the installation of version 18.8.2356, intending to bring back version 18.7.2354 but was thwarted by a message from rstrui.exe and so restarted the system.  I ran System Restore in Safe Mode and restarted.  I was surprised to find that Avast Free 18.8.2356 was running just fine and continues to do so.

:o
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: DavidR on November 20, 2018, 12:19:51 AM
I initiated the update from the Avast GUI. All went OK but on restarting, instup.exe halted with a brief message about a 'Hard Error'.  I then attempted to run System Restore from 45 minutes before the installation of version 18.8.2356, intending to bring back version 18.7.2354 but was thwarted by a message from rstrui.exe and so restarted the system.  I ran System Restore in Safe Mode and restarted.  I was surprised to find that Avast Free 18.8.2356 was running just fine and continues to do so.

:o

Personally I would have tried another reboot as a first port of call (some find that is enough), instup.exe is the installation/update checker.

If this was on your XP system System Restore is not great, so much so I have never used it on my XP System, preferring to use drive imaging software to make an exact copy of a drive/partition, etc.  Not everything is covered by system restore in XP, so I wouldn't be surprised that this was on your XP system.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: maxxp on November 20, 2018, 01:45:31 AM
It is 3 or 4 new avast version  but unsecapp.exe is still being started up  >:(

Hi maxxp, is the unsecapp.exe using a big amount of resources (CPU or Memory) ? AFAIK it is part of the windows implementation of WMI. Windows starts this process if an app wants to receive async callback about various events, like devices, windows services, running processes, networking. It is not started by Avast directly. My understanding is, that asynchronous callbacks are favorable over constant polling - which might, however, remove the unsecapp.exe from the process list.

No, it does not consume a lot of resources, but  the Avast behavior sheild launch this proccess.
I will quote another user, (its started AVAST ver.  18.6.2349)
its now the behavior sheild launch the proccess, which is process i dont like running to opens up security isses, I gona check and see if there is setting in behavior component that is triggering this...

Either way they to fix this
and
unsecapp.exe is still being started up in the new build if behavior shield is installed, unsecapp.exe is not need for the behvior shild to work yet, it constantly starts it on boot, is this gone be fixed? or ignored  for years like the insanely slow GUI performance for avast had/has even when it on SSD it way worse on HDD granted over the years it got faster

If behavior component  is turn off the unsecapp.exe does't appear. Search "unsecapp.exe" on forum a lot of people after update 18.6.2349 complains on this proccess
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: mchain on November 20, 2018, 02:01:50 AM
now i cannot extract anything from winrar ....Avast seems to have blocked the app ..i tried clicking allow on the pop up that appears ehich says avast has blocked the app ...but it did not work

this is exactly what happens ever since i updated my avast , tried pressing allow but nothing is happening
Whenever Avast reports a block such as this one and you do not know what it is, best to always choose 'Block.'  What you are seeing is likely related to downloading/running so-called "free" apps.  You will/should never see such from a reputable paid product.

Anyway, fixing a block issue is much easier than fixing damage from malicious activity which you could have allowed.

If you think this to be a false positive, submit it here:  https://www.avast.com/false-positive-file-form.php (https://www.avast.com/false-positive-file-form.php)
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: wallofasgard on November 20, 2018, 07:53:21 AM
The winrar extraction blocking happens to me only if i am extracting those files on my desktop.But if i am to extract it directly to "Download" folder,everything went fine. :)
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: Pondus on November 20, 2018, 09:11:49 AM
The winrar extraction blocking happens to me only if i am extracting those files on my desktop.But if i am to extract it directly to "Download" folder,everything went fine. :)
Ransomware Shield - FAQs  >>  https://support.avast.com/en-ww/article/Antivirus-Ransomware-Shield-FAQ



Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: bob3160 on November 20, 2018, 01:34:38 PM
The winrar extraction blocking happens to me only if i am extracting those files on my desktop.But if i am to extract it directly to "Download" folder,everything went fine. :)
Ransomware Shield - FAQs  >>  https://support.avast.com/en-ww/article/Antivirus-Ransomware-Shield-FAQ (https://support.avast.com/en-ww/article/Antivirus-Ransomware-Shield-FAQ)
Desktop = Protected Folder = Problem
Downloads Folder = Unprotected Folder = No Problem.
Makes perfect sense to me. :) Working and protecting the folder as it should.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: Zitrus on November 20, 2018, 03:28:46 PM
After updating to this new version and rebooting afterwards I recognized a strange behavior of Avast  ???
I always keep my Avast protected with a password and never deactivated this protection. But after the first reboot the protection was suddenly inactive and could not be acivated as often I tried to :o
Only after the next reboot the password protection proceeds as normal :D
Is this a known bug or something else ?
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: bob3160 on November 20, 2018, 03:31:40 PM
After updating to this new version and rebooting afterwards I recognized a strange behavior of Avast  ???
I always keep my Avast protected with a password and never deactivated this protection. But after the first reboot the protection was suddenly inactive and could not be acivated as often I tried to :o
Only after the next reboot the password protection proceeds as normal :D
Is this a known bug or something else ?
On some occasions, more than one reboot is required for all things to work.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: REDACTED on November 21, 2018, 03:03:02 PM
Despite always disabling automatic program upgrades (I usually prefer manual ones), my Avast Free Antivirus seems to have upgraded, yesterday, of his own will: today, at boot time (win 10 64), it prompted me announcing the (already) performed upgrade and asking me the usual installation-time questions.

I can not categorically swear, but I'm quite sure I did not enable automatic updates (I never do) and I'm quite sure, also, that Avast did not notify me (as usual) the availability of a new version.

Is there any reason for such an unusual behaviour?

I have a same situation... but after that, my laptop is restarting with blue screen ..especially when i try to do smart scan ..i made repair option, but didn' help, then i made a reinstallation, but the problem still exist
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: bob3160 on November 21, 2018, 03:06:03 PM
Despite always disabling automatic program upgrades (I usually prefer manual ones), my Avast Free Antivirus seems to have upgraded, yesterday, of his own will: today, at boot time (win 10 64), it prompted me announcing the (already) performed upgrade and asking me the usual installation-time questions.

I can not categorically swear, but I'm quite sure I did not enable automatic updates (I never do) and I'm quite sure, also, that Avast did not notify me (as usual) the availability of a new version.

Is there any reason for such an unusual behaviour?

I have a same situation... but after that, my laptop is restarting with blue screen ..especially when i try to do smart scan ..i made repair option, but didn' help, then i made a reinstallation, but the problem still exist
If Repair doesn't fix the problem, try the following:
Clean Install of Avast:
https://goo.gl/4Ptzkf
If you need additional help with the Clean Install, watch this:
https://youtu.be/p-h3myRD51A

Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: NON on November 21, 2018, 04:37:25 PM
Indeed I see a report about BSoD related to Smart Scan in the Japanese BBS.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: REDACTED on November 21, 2018, 04:59:49 PM
Despite always disabling automatic program upgrades (I usually prefer manual ones), my Avast Free Antivirus seems to have upgraded, yesterday, of his own will: today, at boot time (win 10 64), it prompted me announcing the (already) performed upgrade and asking me the usual installation-time questions.

I can not categorically swear, but I'm quite sure I did not enable automatic updates (I never do) and I'm quite sure, also, that Avast did not notify me (as usual) the availability of a new version.

Is there any reason for such an unusual behaviour?

I have a same situation... but after that, my laptop is restarting with blue screen ..especially when i try to do smart scan ..i made repair option, but didn' help, then i made a reinstallation, but the problem still exist
If Repair doesn't fix the problem, try the following:
Clean Install of Avast:
https://goo.gl/4Ptzkf
If you need additional help with the Clean Install, watch this:
https://youtu.be/p-h3myRD51A

i have done all this, but after i have tried to start smart scan o got a blue screen with lot of text and laptop has restarted by itself...
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: igor on November 21, 2018, 05:16:06 PM
Can you please go to C:\Windows\Minidump and send us the latest file from there? (e.g. upload it to ftp://ftp.avast.com/incoming)
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: REDACTED on November 21, 2018, 05:37:48 PM
Can you please go to C:\Windows\Minidump and send us the latest file from there? (e.g. upload it to ftp://ftp.avast.com/incoming)

found but can not send as an attachment, and I do not know how to apply it through the link you provided.. I have created a link in dropbox, hope it will help  https://www.dropbox.com/s/s5vsggt3djv4jaz/112118-21621-01.dmp?dl=0
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: axeljunio1006 on November 22, 2018, 05:30:57 AM
Hello Mr. Martin. I'm just your everyday avast user

Yesterday at 21 nov after i updated my avast and finished it. I run smart scan like always i done after successfully updated it. But when i do smart scan suddenly my computer goes blue screen and restarted. I already do this: https://support.avast.com/en-eu/article/Troubleshoot-blue-screen-crash | But still it failed and still goes blue screen. Now i am desperate and do you have any idea or opinion on how to fix it?
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: Asyn on November 22, 2018, 05:33:00 AM
Hello Mr. Martin. I'm just your everyday avast user

Yesterday at 21 nov after i updated my avast and finished it. I run smart scan like always i done after successfully updated it. But when i do smart scan suddenly my computer goes blue screen and restarted. I already do this: https://support.avast.com/en-eu/article/Troubleshoot-blue-screen-crash | But still it failed and still goes blue screen. Now i am desperate and do you have any idea or opinion on how to fix it?
Follow instructions: https://support.avast.com/article/33/ and post your File-ID here afterwards.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: MartinZ on November 22, 2018, 10:00:41 AM
Hello Mr. Martin. I'm just your everyday avast user

Yesterday at 21 nov after i updated my avast and finished it. I run smart scan like always i done after successfully updated it. But when i do smart scan suddenly my computer goes blue screen and restarted. I already do this: https://support.avast.com/en-eu/article/Troubleshoot-blue-screen-crash | But still it failed and still goes blue screen. Now i am desperate and do you have any idea or opinion on how to fix it?

I apologize for the inconvenience. We are already working on fix. Please do not run the smart scan unless we release the hotfix.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: axeljunio1006 on November 22, 2018, 11:07:02 AM
Hello Mr. Martin. I'm just your everyday avast user

Yesterday at 21 nov after i updated my avast and finished it. I run smart scan like always i done after successfully updated it. But when i do smart scan suddenly my computer goes blue screen and restarted. I already do this: https://support.avast.com/en-eu/article/Troubleshoot-blue-screen-crash | But still it failed and still goes blue screen. Now i am desperate and do you have any idea or opinion on how to fix it?

I apologize for the inconvenience. We are already working on fix. Please do not run the smart scan unless we release the hotfix.

Maybe sometime later, after everything is fixed can you inform me through this forum Mr. MartinZ ? I'll be sure to check this forum everyday
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: MartinZ on November 23, 2018, 04:38:17 PM
The issue with BSOD during Smart Scan is fixed now.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: NON on November 23, 2018, 05:49:31 PM
The issue with BSOD during Smart Scan is fixed now.
Is the uUpdate released?
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: MartinZ on November 23, 2018, 06:03:38 PM
yes
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: NON on November 23, 2018, 07:29:48 PM
OK, thanks! 8)
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: axeljunio1006 on November 24, 2018, 11:14:02 AM
The issue with BSOD during Smart Scan is fixed now.

Thank you very much Mr. MartinZ and the team, i confirmed it already that i can smart scan again without having any problem. I appreciate it very much, once again thank you
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: ItsAllGoodMan on November 30, 2018, 09:14:39 PM
I noticed in the Windows Task Scheduler that there is an entry for "SafeZone scheduled Autoupdate 1458751048".  It points to: "C:\Program Files\AVAST Software\SZBrowser\launcher.exe --scheduledautoupdate $(Arg0)"  The Author is WORKGROUP\COMPUTER$

I do not have SafeZone installed, and there is no SZBrowser folder/files at the location being pointed to.

Is this entry intentional?  Is it ok to remove?
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: bob3160 on November 30, 2018, 09:24:08 PM
I noticed in the Windows Task Scheduler that there is an entry for "SafeZone scheduled Autoupdate 1458751048".  It points to: "C:\Program Files\AVAST Software\SZBrowser\launcher.exe --scheduledautoupdate $(Arg0)"  The Author is WORKGROUP\COMPUTER$

I do not have SafeZone installed, and there is no SZBrowser folder/files at the location being pointed to.

Is this entry intentional?  Is it ok to remove?
SafeZone Browser is an old product and has been replaced by the Avast Secure Browser.
I'd remove the entry from the task scheduler.
I'm also reporting this to the Avast developers.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: Dealx on December 01, 2018, 12:56:52 PM
I would like to know when https://forum.avast.com/?topic=223001.0 reported on 02-Nov-2018 is going to be fixed.
This increases HDD/SSD activity and temperature as avastsvc.exe writes 97 bytes ([info] message) to "C:\ProgramData\AVAST Software\Avast\log\AvastSvc.log" EVERY second, 86400 times per day.
Also, what would be an acceptable reason of checking http connection every second? I think it is too often.
Anyway, I see the reason of logging that only if http connection is NOT accepted.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: Asyn on December 01, 2018, 04:36:48 PM
You could try the latest beta: https://forum.avast.com/index.php?board=15
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: bruce_b on December 11, 2018, 01:00:13 PM
Ever since the update to 18.8.2356 on my old XP computer I am seeing these 2 files:
app3.tmp-shm
app4.tmp-shm

being created on boot up in my Docs & Settings\User\Local Settings\Temp folder
At first, I had no idea where they came from (thought it was an infection) and did
a restore from my Ghost Image .. They came back ... Ran Process Monitor and was
finally able to pin it down to these files beling created by AvastUi .. The question now
is why ? ? ?   Note: I do not seem to see these on my Windows 10 Home 64 Bit Laptop
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: yukari on December 13, 2018, 06:42:02 PM
Avast Free version 18.8.2356, block the Razer mice driver?
My mice can not move, i uninstall 18.8.2356 and install 18.6.2349, back to normal.

OS: Windows 7, Razer Synapse 2 (Razer DeathAdder Elite)
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: DavidR on December 13, 2018, 07:50:46 PM
Avast Free version 18.8.2356, block the Razer mice driver?
My mice can not move, i uninstall 18.8.2356 and install 18.6.2349, back to normal.

OS: Windows 7, Razer Synapse 2 (Razer DeathAdder Elite)

You don't say what is blocking it or if there is a popup or message, etc.

But, given the lack of information - It may have been easier to exclude the mouse driver in avast (rather than reinstall an earlier version), probably the behaviour shield or the General - Exclusions.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: yukari on December 14, 2018, 01:33:19 AM
Avast Free version 18.8.2356, block the Razer mice driver?
My mice can not move, i uninstall 18.8.2356 and install 18.6.2349, back to normal.

OS: Windows 7, Razer Synapse 2 (Razer DeathAdder Elite)

You don't say what is blocking it or if there is a popup or message, etc.

But, given the lack of information - It may have been easier to exclude the mouse driver in avast (rather than reinstall an earlier version), probably the behaviour shield or the General - Exclusions.
OK, I update to 18.8.2356 again,
Not show popup or message, Add the Razer driver in exclusions not work,
I already know the problem is ( hardware-assisted virtualization),
It will make the Razer mice can not move and Nvidia control panel (Adjust Desktop Colour Settings) fail on windows startup.
Disable the (Enable hardware-assisted virtualization), back to normal.

Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: DavidR on December 14, 2018, 10:01:17 AM
Avast Free version 18.8.2356, block the Razer mice driver?
My mice can not move, i uninstall 18.8.2356 and install 18.6.2349, back to normal.

OS: Windows 7, Razer Synapse 2 (Razer DeathAdder Elite)

You don't say what is blocking it or if there is a popup or message, etc.

But, given the lack of information - It may have been easier to exclude the mouse driver in avast (rather than reinstall an earlier version), probably the behaviour shield or the General - Exclusions.
OK, I update to 18.8.2356 again,
Not show popup or message, Add the Razer driver in exclusions not work,
I already know the problem is ( hardware-assisted virtualization),
It will make the Razer mice can not move and Nvidia control panel (Adjust Desktop Colour Settings) fail on windows startup.
Disable the (Enable hardware-assisted virtualization), back to normal.

Thanks for taking the time to report the corrective action, it could well help others.
Glad that all is OK now.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: Dix Huit on December 15, 2018, 09:24:45 PM
Downloaded the 'off line Installer' for AIS
Last version for XP/vista......Going to want to keep this set up file saved ;)

I think that Avast need to do some work before this can be considered (saving the last of-line version) ready to split off XP.  For the last three versions 18.6, 18.7 and 18.8 AvastSvc.exe has a CPU problem, certainly on my system. 

In 18.6 after a few days use (no restart) I was finding AvastSvc.exe at 50% (occasionally higher) when there was no other activity reported on the Task Manager.  Closing down all other user programs made no difference avastsvc.exe sat there on 50% CPU.  The only solution was to reboot and wait for it to happen again.

When 18.7 was released I did a clean reinstall, but that too made no difference at some point the avastsvc.exe CPU spiked and remained at 50% or more.  Even with 50% remaining it had a massive impact on other running programs. Firefox in particular.

So I may need to go even further back than 18.6 and not 18.8.

Well I have done a clean install (last night before midnight as the cpu spike occurred again), going back to Avast Free version 18.5.2342 and we will have to see how this goes.  But for me this issue warranted removal of 18.8.2356, the spikes were becoming more frequent.

I am still on version 18.5.2342 and do not have that problem.  I do have AvastUI.exe using 50% for some time after booting, but it drops to 0% after a while.  I will let you know what happens once I "upgrade" to version 18.8.2356.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: DavidR on December 16, 2018, 01:38:43 AM
Downloaded the 'off line Installer' for AIS
Last version for XP/vista......Going to want to keep this set up file saved ;)

I think that Avast need to do some work before this can be considered (saving the last of-line version) ready to split off XP.  For the last three versions 18.6, 18.7 and 18.8 AvastSvc.exe has a CPU problem, certainly on my system. 

In 18.6 after a few days use (no restart) I was finding AvastSvc.exe at 50% (occasionally higher) when there was no other activity reported on the Task Manager.  Closing down all other user programs made no difference avastsvc.exe sat there on 50% CPU.  The only solution was to reboot and wait for it to happen again.

When 18.7 was released I did a clean reinstall, but that too made no difference at some point the avastsvc.exe CPU spiked and remained at 50% or more.  Even with 50% remaining it had a massive impact on other running programs. Firefox in particular.

So I may need to go even further back than 18.6 and not 18.8.

Well I have done a clean install (last night before midnight as the cpu spike occurred again), going back to Avast Free version 18.5.2342 and we will have to see how this goes.  But for me this issue warranted removal of 18.8.2356, the spikes were becoming more frequent.

I am still on version 18.5.2342 and do not have that problem.  I do have AvastUI.exe using 50% for some time after booting, but it drops to 0% after a while.  I will let you know what happens once I "upgrade" to version 18.8.2356.

Not exactly sure why you have quoted what you have ?
I don't have any problems with 18.5.2342 that was the reason for going back there. 

I haven't experienced any CPU spikes with AvastUI.exe with any version (on XP), 18.5.2342 or later, hence my question why would my quoted posts be related to yours, you also don't say what OS you are using.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: REDACTED on December 16, 2018, 09:42:47 PM
How do I get the activation code on Free version
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: DavidR on December 16, 2018, 09:56:52 PM
How do I get the activation code on Free version

Check this Article https://support.avast.com/en-gb/article/Activate-Free-Antivirus/ (https://support.avast.com/en-gb/article/Activate-Free-Antivirus/).

If this doesn't answer your question. Then create your own new topic as it is likely to get buried in what is a large topic.

Or post in a topic specifically relating to registering/activating avast free. 

Also give more details on the avast version number and if this is a new installation or renewal of registration.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: Dix Huit on December 16, 2018, 10:20:26 PM
Downloaded the 'off line Installer' for AIS
Last version for XP/vista......Going to want to keep this set up file saved ;)

I think that Avast need to do some work before this can be considered (saving the last of-line version) ready to split off XP.  For the last three versions 18.6, 18.7 and 18.8 AvastSvc.exe has a CPU problem, certainly on my system. 

In 18.6 after a few days use (no restart) I was finding AvastSvc.exe at 50% (occasionally higher) when there was no other activity reported on the Task Manager.  Closing down all other user programs made no difference avastsvc.exe sat there on 50% CPU.  The only solution was to reboot and wait for it to happen again.

When 18.7 was released I did a clean reinstall, but that too made no difference at some point the avastsvc.exe CPU spiked and remained at 50% or more.  Even with 50% remaining it had a massive impact on other running programs. Firefox in particular.

So I may need to go even further back than 18.6 and not 18.8.

Well I have done a clean install (last night before midnight as the cpu spike occurred again), going back to Avast Free version 18.5.2342 and we will have to see how this goes.  But for me this issue warranted removal of 18.8.2356, the spikes were becoming more frequent.

I am still on version 18.5.2342 and do not have that problem.  I do have AvastUI.exe using 50% for some time after booting, but it drops to 0% after a while.  I will let you know what happens once I "upgrade" to version 18.8.2356.

Not exactly sure why you have quoted what you have ?
I don't have any problems with 18.5.2342 that was the reason for going back there. 

I haven't experienced any CPU spikes with AvastUI.exe with any version (on XP), 18.5.2342 or later, hence my question why would my quoted posts be related to yours, you also don't say what OS you are using.

Not exactly sure myself. ;) I suppose seeing mention of "50%", so familiar, made me think it might be the same problem.  But as you so rightly point out, in one case it is AvastUI.exe and in the other it is AvastSvc.exe doing it.  I am indeed using XP, but since you have not seen any evidence of 50% CPU usage by AvastUI.exe, our systems are probably too different to consider comparable.  In any case, I will let you know whether I see any excessive CPU usage with version 18.8.2356.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: =Snake= on January 05, 2019, 03:54:53 AM
I won't be updating today but maybe tomorrow.  I always uninstall the previous version then install the new version.
OK, do as you like.
If some people are having problems with this new version I'm not going to update yet.
You don't have to, but it's your choice.
Title: Re: NEW Version: 18.8.2356
Post by: Tangy on January 05, 2019, 05:29:09 AM
Updated via GUI to 18.8.2356 everything seems to be fine !  :)