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Consumer Products => Avast Free Antivirus / Premium Security (legacy Pro Antivirus, Internet Security, Premier) => Topic started by: Anacunga on June 23, 2011, 11:55:43 PM
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Since quite a while, I always have the flaw that the program update does not start by itself (when set to automatically update), nor is the user informed as soon as an update is ready (when set to ask when an update is ready).
When having set to "tell and ask as soon as an update is ready", just nothing happens (besides the info that new virus database is ready to install (but that's not the problem).
As the tray icon permanenly reports an alarm (so that the user is forced to ignore that alarm not to turn crazy and open the main window to see that the software is up-to-date), the program update is absolutely not noticed.
Sorry, but this IS NOT the way to deal with dangerous things.
Again (as asked for years and so many times): TURN THAT YELLOW !-TRIANGLE OFF AS LONG AS THERE IS NO UPDATE READY - AND TURN IT ON EACH TIME AS SOON AS AN UPDATE IS READY!!!
I am near before switching to another antivirus-solution as recommendation for my customers as many of them not only are not far before turning crazy, but also that as soon as I notice that there is a program update on my own PC, I can prepare to rush to every customer to manually install the software (not virus-database) update - even if the setting is set on "automatically update" - to keep them up-to-date.
BTW: I don't know if that would affect the update behaviour - but often Activex and/or (Java)Script etc. are turned off when there is no automatic program update or announcement.
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What would help us greatly is the program version you actually have right now ?
There hasn't been a program update for some time, so the simple fact could be that there isn't one available, that however, depends on the version you have and why I asked.
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There was an update declared as program update TODAY. Version before: 6.0.1125 / 110623-0 ... Version after: 6.0.1125 / 110623-1 ... There was a very big red sign to do a program update!
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There was an update declared as program update TODAY. Version before: 6.0.1125 / 110623-0 ... Version after: 6.0.1125 / 110623-1 ... There was a very big red sign to do a program update!
program version / virus definitions version
The virus definitions what were updated. Generally, twice a day: the -0 and the -1 year-month-date-number.
Is your system time and date correct?
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@Anacunga,
I myself (still) have some Program updates Tray Notifications issues since last year, but I think that you are mixing several different issues.
1_ Program updates VS. Database updates;
2_ Avast's Tray icon and the updates Tray Notifications (for Database updates, and/or for Program updates);
3_ Configuration of Database updates (manual/ask/automatic) and/or Program updates (manual/ask/automatic);
4_ Status Bar (settings) monitoring several different Avast's components;
5_ Different Dates when a new Stable Program update is announced, released and available to the public (manual update using exe), released to "some" Avast servers (manual update using GUI), available for automatic update, available for "ask the user"...
6_ Avast's Tray icon and notification area VS. Windows Security Warning Tray Icon;
7_ ...
Each of those points are different and separate issues, which in some particular cases might be related to each other.
If you could explain more clearly the issue(s), maybe we can try to help (or even agree/confirm that there is a problem affecting many users).
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Hmm ... might be that I mix up several things. But I remember that yesterday I was clicking on "program update" (and then an update was done), not on "virus database update" - but apparently it was a virus database update (started by a click on program update). So one of my conclusions is: clicking on "program update" always also updates virus database? OK, why not better that way than leaving out the virus database update.
But what is absolutely not comprehensible (and will never be) is that you are trying to force the user to activate automatic updates and are not respecting the circumstances that there are situations where automatic updating is inappropriate. I'm absolutely not complaining about any notification - but as it is now, it looks like an alarm siren is always droning - having the effect that it is igored; and that is the worst-case-scenario for every security-institution (and I am here thinking of civil protection or chemistry plant alarms etc. what is the base for real catastrophes); just because you are in a situation where you don't have always internet access and you have to first "looking for a free line to get bigger data from the net" (a simple notification is not "bigger", but as small data that immediate delivery is no problem).
It is really not understandable why you don't use the tray icon for a real warning system, as follows (concerning the manual update setting): as long as the virus database is up-to-date, the tray icon looks the same as it looks when having the autoupdate set on; no yellow triangle question-mark for that moment. But as soon as an update is availabe and the update is not yet installed, the yellow (or even red) triangle appears - and redisappears as soon as the update is done. And the "signalling" in the "current status" is a green check-mark tick when set to automatic update, a green exclamation mark turning to yellow exclamation mark as soon as any update is available but not yet installed and red exclamation mark when set to manual update.
To show the red x in "notification mode" is the same thing! Show it when updating is set to manual - but NOT when set to "notificating"; in that case show a yellow exclamation mark (or else).
It is absolutely not comprehensible why you don't use such a system - specially as you have the permanent control over the tray-icon and really can use it as status reminder.
The "notification mode" (ask when an update is availabe) is not the same as the "manual mode". In manual mode, I would suggest to permanently show something like a red triangled exclamation mark; but to show a yellow triangled exclamation mark in "notification mode", it is paranoic to show it when the software is up to date.
BTW: other anti-virus-software is able to differentiate between the different states of update availability; why is AVAST not able to that?
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The Program update check also downloads any virus definitions update if one is available. So it may appear to you that it did a program update when it was only the virus definitions that were updated.
The user isn't forced to do anything, they can change the settings.
The virus definitions are set to Automatic by default as they are measured in KBs rather than MBs and you want the latest virus definitions as soon as possible. The Program update is set to Ask by default.
When the auto update check is done (it is checking both update areas/functions), any virus definitions would be downloaded and installed automatically, but if a program update was available then you would be notified of that availability and you have to respond to download and install it (Ask).
The default Ask mode of the Program Updates does not trigger the ! exclamation mark and yellow triangle over the avast icon. However, setting virus definitions to ask would; you can also change the avastUI, Settings, Status Bar, Components Monitored, and uncheck the Definitions auto updates option, if you want to set that to Ask.
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@Anacunga,
Besides the clear explanation from DavidR, the additional changes over the Avast's tray icon (exclamation signs) can come from some shields being manually "stopped" (Avast GUI -> open the shield -> "stop" if you want/need). But if you stop a shield, you can also disable the tray "alarms" over Avast's icon in relation to the specific shield (settings -> status bar) so it won't "bother" you.
The other possible tray "alarm" that you might see can come from Windows Security Center (a red "chest" icon or something similar; I currently don't exactly remember). You can change its settings in the Windows Security Center.
If the Windows Security Center is not working as you expect, you may try:
1_ Reboot;
2_ Disable the Windows Security Center;
3_ Reboot;
4_ Re-enable the Windows Security Center (relating it to Avast or whatever security tool you want);
5_ Reboot;
6_ Update all Windows security updates available;
7_ Reboot;
8_ Update Avast (manual program update also performs database update);
9_ Reboot;
10_ Come back to report (positive/negative) feedback.
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The default Ask mode of the Program Updates does not trigger the ! exclamation mark and yellow triangle over the avast icon. However, setting virus definitions to ask would; you can also change the avastUI, Settings, Status Bar, Components Monitored, and uncheck the Definitions auto updates option, if you want to set that to Ask.
OK, got so far ... but: does the exclamation mark reappear as soon as any update is ready and not yet installed - and redisappear after having installed it? No - obviously not. Why not? That would be the most elegant way to tell the user that "system is not in fully updated state".
Other question: how to turn off the big window that appears after clicking to "update now"? I don't need that - it always bothers as it is interfering to any other task and putting itself into foreground (even when having turned off "allow programs to steal focus" in Windows settings.
Just some seconds ago, I got a new virus update announcement - but neither in the tray icon nor in the main window is visible that a virus update is due to install. Why not? Why don't you show that in the tray icon? And why does not the small announcement window reappear (in that state of an update waiting to be installed) when clicking on the tray icon? And when clicking the "update now" the main window appears anyway.
As a whole the "alert system" does not really look as consequent as expected; in some points it really seems to lack logic; and that's not really inspiring confidence, sorry.
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The exclamation mark isn't about the update but the fact that you haven't got it set to automatic, that condition/parameter hasn't changed. If you wish to keep the virus definitions on Ask then do as suggested and stop avast from monitoring that function.
There is another check if you look at the image and settings again which does monitor the virus definition version, if that were to get out of date then you would see the exclamation mark again, so you have two settings in this regard.
That really is a consequence of not keeping the auto update which is done in the background, when you use the update now it has to do it through the avast user interface. I really have no idea why you feel the need to change the auto update on the virus definitions to Ask (the check will happen anyway and the overhead is minimal to update in the background) ?
Again this is a consequence of not keeping the auto update, the UI only displays the current information up to the point when it would consider the virus definitions to be out of date, then you would see that in the UI and in the exclamation mark.
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OK, got so far ... but: does the exclamation mark reappear as soon as any update is ready and not yet installed - and redisappear after having installed it? No - obviously not. Why not? That would be the most elegant way to tell the user that "system is not in fully updated state".
DavidR just answered that question.
Other question: how to turn off the big window that appears after clicking to "update now"? I don't need that - it always bothers as it is interfering to any other task and putting itself into foreground (even when having turned off "allow programs to steal focus" in Windows settings.
Well, if you don't want to be bothered, you have at least 2 possibilities. Avast has a "game mode" setting. That's one possibility that should work in "some" cases. Deactivating the status bar monitoring and setting the popups to say 1 second should also help you to be "less bothered" about tray notifications.
But the "best method" to avoid being bothered with the full GUI twice a day for database updates is to simply set the database updates to "automatic" (which is BTW the default). In addition, other already suggested settings are available to you.
The database updates are measured in KB, so I don't get why to set them as "ask" if you don't like being bothered.
Just some seconds ago, I got a new virus update announcement - but neither in the tray icon nor in the main window is visible that a virus update is due to install. Why not?
You might not be looking in the correct place? The main GUI has at least "summary" and "maintenance" to look for program and/or database versions and last checking-for-updates times.
Why don't you show that in the tray icon?
What's the point of showing the versions in the tray? Either you are up-to-date or you are not. And that's an info that you can set to get (those exclamation marks that are bothering you) or you can set to "just don't bother me".
And why does not the small announcement window reappear (in that state of an update waiting to be installed) when clicking on the tray icon?
I'm not sure what you want. For example, if you set the database update to "automatic" (BTW, default), you only see the tray notification when an actual database update is performed AND IF you set the status bar monitoring for it.
If you are not interested in being bothered, then set it to "automatic" and uncheck the monitoring. If you want to control the database ("ask") then you decide when to update, so no need to tell you twice.
If you want to control also the "checking" if there is an update available, in addition to "applying" the database update, then you can set that too.
And when clicking the "update now" the main window appears anyway.
Well, you need to decide. Either YOU control the database updates, or set it to "automatic".
As a whole the "alert system" does not really look as consequent as expected; in some points it really seems to lack logic; and that's not really inspiring confidence, sorry.
Well, I'm sorry to say that IMHO, your modified settings are not being consequent with what you are trying to achieve. Moreover, for someone that is saying that for years has been using Avast and has customers with it, it seems that "navigating" through the GUI and/or reading the help file should be recommended. But that's just an impression; maybe I'm wrong.
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The exclamation mark isn't about the update but the fact that you haven't got it set to automatic, that condition/parameter hasn't changed. If you wish to keep the virus definitions on Ask then do as suggested and stop avast from monitoring that function.
OK, I'll have a look at that.
There is another check if you look at the image and settings again which does monitor the virus definition version, if that were to get out of date then you would see the exclamation mark again, so you have two settings in this regard.
Did I change that when installing and selecting all status bar items in settings? Why is this not default setting when setting to "ask-mode"?
That really is a consequence of not keeping the auto update which is done in the background, when you use the update now it has to do it through the avast user interface. I really have no idea why you feel the need to change the auto update on the virus definitions to Ask (the check will happen anyway and the overhead is minimal to update in the background)?
I am sometimes on very thin mobile connections - just to chech if new mail has arrived. And downloading eMail-titels just cosumes some bytes what can be affordet at tariffs of 1 EURO per 10kb or even more (yes, such tarifs still exist). Virus-database-update is not urgent just for downloading eMail-titles. In such contexts, NO (absolutely NO) automatic software download is allowed when connecting to internet!
Again this is a consequence of not keeping the auto update, the UI only displays the current information up to the point when it would consider the virus definitions to be out of date, then you would see that in the UI and in the exclamation mark.
OK - I'll have a more detailed look at the behaviour.
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Well, if you don't want to be bothered, you have at least 2 possibilities. Avast has a "game mode" setting. That's one possibility that should work in "some" cases. Deactivating the status bar monitoring and setting the popups to say 1 second should also help you to be "less bothered" about tray notifications.
But the "best method" to avoid being bothered with the full GUI twice a day for database updates is to simply set the database updates to "automatic" (which is BTW the default). In addition, other already suggested settings are available to you.
WHY ARE YOU SO CRAZY TO WANT TO FORCE ME TO TURN ON AUTOMATIC UPDATES?? ?????? TURNING AUTOUPDATE IS NO SOLUTION!!! I WON'T DO THAT - OR I WILL RATHER INSTALL AVG OR ANY OTHER ANTIVIRUS-SOLUTION!!!!!!!
Well, you need to decide. Either YOU control the database updates, or set it to "automatic".
I DON'T NEED THAT BIG WINDOW WHEN JUST UPDATING VIRUS DATABASE!!!!!!! IT JUST CONUMES UNNECESSARILY TIME TO ALWAYS GET RID OF IT - AND IT IS ALWAYS DISTURBING BY STEALING FOCUS!!! With AVAST4, that was much better solved!
As a whole the "alert system" does not really look as consequent as expected; in some points it really seems to lack logic; and that's not really inspiring confidence, sorry.
Well, I'm sorry to say that IMHO, your modified settings are not being consequent with what you are trying to achieve. Moreover, for someone that is saying that for years has been using Avast and has customers with it, it seems that "navigating" through the GUI and/or reading the help file should be recommended. But that's just an impression; maybe I'm wrong.
I remember AVAST4 - that was more consequent and much, much more logic in handling (not because of the less functions - but from it's inner logic and organisation of the user interface!). Notification methods of AVAST4 was really that what I would also expect from AVAST5 or AVAST6!!!
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WHY ARE YOU SO CRAZY TO WANT TO FORCE ME TO TURN ON AUTOMATIC UPDATES?? ?????? TURNING AUTOUPDATE IS NO SOLUTION!!! I WON'T DO THAT - OR I WILL RATHER INSTALL AVG OR ANY OTHER ANTIVIRUS-SOLUTION!!!!!!!
Writing all in capital letters? ??? :(
Just trying to help. I'm not crazy about any particular setting. I am all for respecting the user's decisions. You are missing my point, that was only a continuation of what DavidR explained.
You have your reasons for setting your Avast as you want, but then you have to deal with the consequences.
I still think that you are not using the adequate settings for your needs and for what you want to achieve. Setting the "apply-database-update" to "ask" would mean that it is "not-automatic", hence you need to somehow "answer" the the "ask". But, you don't want to be bothered. This "seems" to be contradictory.
As you are seeing with the different settings being mentioned, it "must" be some group of settings better than those, don't you think?
Well, you need to decide. Either YOU control the database updates, or set it to "automatic".
I DON'T NEED THAT BIG WINDOW WHEN JUST UPDATING VIRUS DATABASE!!!!!!! IT JUST CONUMES UNNECESSARILY TIME TO ALWAYS GET RID OF IT - AND IT IS ALWAYS DISTURBING BY STEALING FOCUS!!! With AVAST4, that was much better solved!
Well there you go. DavidR already answered that when you set the database updates to "ask", you need to act by yourself. Once Avast "checks" (not "applays") if there is an update available, Avast "asks".
Let's try some other settings. First, stop the monitoring of those things that are bothering you. You don't want database updates monitoring? Then stop it (uncheck it), under settings -> status bar.
Even if there is some pop up, it is bothering you too much but you don't want to completely stop it? Set the time to 1 second (not zero).
Now go to the settings -> updates. Set all you want/need to manual update (not ask, not automatic). Uncheck the "show notification ... automatic update" if you don't want it.
Now, you don't want to waste any KB for updates? Then in that same place (settings -> updates) change the "auto-update internval" to, say, 1440 (24 hours, once a day). So not only you won't be asked if you want to update, but also the "checking if there are updates available" won't be performed and you won't spend those KB either.
Now continue with settings -> silent/gaming mode. Set there the first checkbox, so Avast won't bother you at all.
Under settings -> sounds, disable them.
Under settings -> community, uncheck everything so no communication will use your bandwith.
I currently don't remember if there is a viewable setting to avoid checking for updates when you "first" connect to the Internet.
You can "play" with all those settings. The key is to understand the consequences of each, so to combine them as you really need/want, but still keep you safe.
If the real problem is the bandwith, then manually check once a day when you don't need to pay so much, but leave the monitoring of the database not being up-to-date, so you won't "forget" to manually update at least once a day (or whichever period you want).
Or, set it to automatically check and automatically update only once a day (instead every 4 hours), so you avoid the situation of "forgetting" to check for updates, and uncheck the up-to-date monitoring.
It seems to me that you don't want Avast even "checking for updates" so frequently, but you don't mind so much to "automatically apply database updates" (so it won't interrupt your work) when, once a day, it performs the "checking" (instead of answering once every 4 hours). I may be wrong, but it doesn't matter. Take this as an example.
As a whole the "alert system" does not really look as consequent as expected; in some points it really seems to lack logic; and that's not really inspiring confidence, sorry.
Well, I'm sorry to say that IMHO, your modified settings are not being consequent with what you are trying to achieve. Moreover, for someone that is saying that for years has been using Avast and has customers with it, it seems that "navigating" through the GUI and/or reading the help file should be recommended. But that's just an impression; maybe I'm wrong.
I remember AVAST4 - that was more consequent and much, much more logic in handling (not because of the less functions - but from it's inner logic and organisation of the user interface!). Notification methods of AVAST4 was really that what I would also expect from AVAST5 or AVAST6!!!
Are the possible settings perfect? Probably there is place for improvement (in fact, I KNOW there is). Is this free of bugs or strange symptoms? I KNOW they are there.
As I said, try to focus on the correct setting. Avast 4 "is gone". I am confident that the current Avast can "play by YOUR rules".
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If you have updates set to ask they will never work automatically. Any AV program, not only Avast, should have database updates done automatically. Program updates are another matter since the files are much bigger and sometimes will require a restart of the machine to be applied. That could be very inconvenient if an update became available at a bad time. Any update like 110624-0 or 110624-1 is a virus signature database update, not a program update and they should be applied automatically to maintain as high a level of protection as possible. If you set it to ask, they will not be applied until you do it manually and you will receive a notification to do so.
It's just that simple.
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ady4um, automatic updates for virus definitions is a must have.
If you want a worse update scheme, go for AVG or Avira ;D
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ady4um, automatic updates for virus definitions is a must have.
If you want a worse update scheme, go for AVG or Avira ;D
@Tech, why are you telling ME? I'm not the OP. The user has his/her reasons to set it differently. I don't think that he/she is actually setting it correctly according to the reasons he/she says he/she needs it, and I am just suggesting him to review those settings to make it (Avast) to work as he/she needs/wants.
I am NOT saying that those are THE recommended settings. I am just explaining the possibilities.
As I said to the OP, I am always going to respect what the user decides, and the settings should allow him/her to decide whatever he/she wants, even if those settings don't sound reasonable to other users.
I am trying to give to the OP options/possibilities, and to help him/her to configure Avast to get the result THE USER wants. As long as the user understands the consequences, it's all up to HIS/HER choices.
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The user has his/her reasons to set it differently.
I'm discussing, precisely, these "reasons". It was not personal to you.
I am NOT saying that those are THE recommended settings. I am just explaining the possibilities.
Ok, we all think the same :)
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The user has his/her reasons to set it differently.
I'm discussing, precisely, these "reasons". It was not personal to you.
I am NOT saying that those are THE recommended settings. I am just explaining the possibilities.
Ok, we all think the same :)
To sum up, Anacunga doesn't want Avast wasting his bandwidth when connecting using a very expensive connection, but he is also not satisfied with other behaviours.
That's why I am suggesting to change his current settings (which are not the original defaults) to get the result he actually wants. For anyone wanting more details, please read the complete topic.
Let's continue oN-topic now. Anacunga should come back, read the suggestions, try them and come again with (positive/negative) feedback and/or questions.
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Go ahead Anacunga, set manual updates. You can also use your firewall to block other applications that use bandwidth.
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If you have updates set to ask they will never work automatically. Any AV program, not only Avast, should have database updates done automatically.
You even write "should" - implying that there ARE situations that automatic update IS (or at least CAN BE) inappropriate!
Program updates are another matter since the files are much bigger and sometimes will require a restart of the machine to be applied. That could be very inconvenient if an update became available at a bad time. Any update like 110624-0 or 110624-1 is a virus signature database update, not a program update and they should be applied automatically to maintain as high a level of protection as possible.
Even with small pieces like virus database update, there ARE situations that automatic update IS INAPPROPRIATE.
If you set it to ask, they will not be applied until you do it manually and you will receive a notification to do so.
Right. And as you do it manually, yo don't need another big window covering the whole screen for nothing! Yo KNOW that you are telling the update to be made just now. So the small notification balloon is absolutely enough to be shown. And if you really wanna know more, you should be able to click into that balloon - to show the big window. But that big window should NOT appear just when you manually click on "yep - do your update NOW!" - you also don't show it when automatic updating.
It's just that simple.
No - it's not "just that simple".
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First: have a look how AVAST4 was behaving! That was as expected.
To make it short: I want EVERY announcement of EVERY new virus database IMMEDIATELY - but only the announcement - and I install it (manually) AS SOON AS IT IS APPROPRIATE! In most of the cases it is as soon as the announcement is appearing; but sometimes the situation does not allow to install it just then, but maybe 2 minutes later - or as soon as the PC is again on a thick line (as the announcement was coming when having been on a thin expensive line). And I want to set those settings once - and not change them anymore after it is set. And while the update is done, I don't need that big "update window (from the main program)" that is stealing focus.
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First: have a look how AVAST4 was behaving! That was as expected.
To make it short: I want EVERY announcement of EVERY new virus database IMMEDIATELY - but only the announcement - and I install it (manually) AS SOON AS IT IS APPROPRIATE!
@Anacunga, have you read my "reply #13"? You get an announcement when a new database is released, but you CHECK for an update when you first connect to the Internet and every 4 hours after that.
I'll say it again. YOU ARE USING THE WRONG SETTING. IMO, you need to set the database update to "manual", NOT "ask". Windows/Avast should tell you that there is a new database available after the automatic "checking" (by telling you that you are NOT up-to-date), but you won't be "asked", so no instant answer would be requested from you.
If that is not what you want, then try the following settings.
You want to minimize the use of bandwidth? Then reduce the "checking". Instead of checking every 4 hours, set it to 12 hours. Twice a day is around the same frequency of actual database updates.
You want to minimize being bothered? Set the database updates either to "automatic" (recommended) or "manual" (NOT "ask"). Let's think about it for a moment. If you automatically "CHECK" only twice a day, and you automatically update the database twice a day, in most cases you won't be using the expensive bandwith (since you are not using that expensive connection permanently).
In addition of setting the database updates automatically, you can set the notifications in a way that won't bother you (read "reply #13" for the respective settings).
So, you get to minimize the use of expensive bandwidth, you are not bothered, and you remain updated/protected. It depends on the group/combination of settings.
In this latest proposed configuration, the only setting that might not be so well adjusted would be that when you first connect to this expensive connection, Avast might try to check (and update) anyway. As I said in my reply #13, I don't remember where this specific setting can be changed.
A firewall rule giving permission to Avast to connect ONLY under your "normal" (non-expensive) connection would be useful.
I personally haven't set the database updates to something other than automatic, so I'd have to play with it to find the "correct" setting that would let me be up-to-date but that won't bother me too much with full-screen notifications (that is, if my first suggestion in this post - "manual" database updates - is not what you need/want).
About the "RED" icon in the tray area, it is the Windows Security Center advicing you that you are not yet up-to-date, since Avast has informed that a new database is available but not yet applied. If you set the database updates to "manual" (NOT to "ask"), then this is your "key" that you need to update manually when you decide it is the right time/connection.
And I want to set those settings once - and not change them anymore after it is set.
You are using your computer at least under 2 different situations. You want at least 2 different behaviours, but you want to set Avast just once.
That's why it is recommended to choose the "most common" and "effective" of those 2 situations, and an alternative solution is to add firewall rules to control the (different type of) connections.
And while the update is done, I don't need that big "update window (from the main program)" that is stealing focus.
Again, try the "manual" database update.
I haven't been in the need to set the database updates to "ask". If there is no combination of settings that allows you to continue your work (read my reply #13 about silent mode and notifications) without being bothered, then I guess I have no real answer. But, with so many available combinations of settings, it sounds at least strange.
It doesn't sound so "logical" to set Avast to "ask" but simultaneously to "don't bother me", but I understand that your "answer" when Avast "asks" could be given using a tray notification instead of a full-screen GUI. Have you played with the mentioned settings and suggestions to see if you get the result you want?
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ARE YOU SO CRAYZY NOT WANTING TO UNDERSTAND?? ??? WHAT RUBBISH ARE YOU AGAIN WANTING TO TELL ME?? ???
1. I don't care about popping up the small popup near to the tray icon as soon as a new version has come out. This has to come as soon as possible (after AVAST has given out an update). So the "check interval" can be as short as useful - maybe 10 or 20 minutes. And in that state ("update is ready") I am not again bothered by any popup - I should be informed directly by any kind of sign in the tray icon itself.
2. As soon as I got the announcement that a new version has come out, I want to decide myself whether I want to install that update "just now", within 20 seconds, within 2 minutes, within 5 minutes, "not now as I am on a too thin line, but as soon as I am again on a enough thick line", etc.
3. I don't want to need to "manually check whether a new version is ready" - I want to informed from AVAST for that by itself so that I just can click once (onto the tray icon to make the "an update is ready-popup") or twice (onto the "update now" inside that popup).
4. I don't need the main update-window to go open at that moment (when having clicked to "update now". that big window is just bothering and nothing else. If I really want it, I can open it by clicking once more onto the avast-tray-icon.
5. but I want again in a popup-info the info that update has been installed successfully. (If I want to check that, I can again click into the avast icon as I can at any time to open the main window).
6. I don't want to change that setting - neither daily nor dependent of the thickness of the line, nor dependent on anything else.
7. And I never want to CHECK manually!!! And neither get the info "there is no new update since your last check".
Keep in mind: the info itself that a new update is out is as small that it does not make any problem to be sent through a very thin expensive line - but the update itself could cause the cost of several euros - and you never know how big that update will be in advance - but you konw that the info itself (of an announcement of a new update)is enough small not to cause too much cost, even on an expensive thin line!
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@Anacunga,
You still don't get the difference between the "server" having the update available (whenever), your Avast "checking" (every 4 hours as default, no matter if an update has been available 3 hours and 59 minutes before), and actually "applying" the update (which you want to decide when to apply it).
If you don't want to even try to see the results of setting the "applying" part to "manual" instead of "ask" (which is independent of the other parts of the process), or any other combination of settings that actually could get the results YOU want/need, then I can't do anything else.
Avast Team may change behaviours, but you are still the user who needs to know how to configure it according to your needs. Technology has not got yet to the point where Avast can read your mind and autoconfigure itself without even bothering you 8) . And Avast won't automagically work as you want if you keep using the wrong settings (read as: "misunderstanding their meanings").
Good luck.
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Basically, all the important functionality is already there with the "Ask" setting.
You get a popup when the definitions update is available - if you want to install it, fine, if you don't want to at the moment, you can e.g. pin it on the screen (or just forget about it and wait for the next one).
You are right that opening the program window is unnecessary - but since most of the users have the virus definition updates set to automatic and keeping it on Ask or Manual is quite rare, I kinda doubt the behavior will be changed (as some users might be used to how it's now, so additional program settings would probably required... just not worth, sorry).
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Basically, all the important functionality is already there with the "Ask" setting.
You get a popup when the definitions update is available - if you want to install it, fine, if you don't want to at the moment, you can e.g. pin it on the screen (or just forget about it and wait for the next one).
Thank you for confirming that "ask" is the appropriate setting for my needs ...
But as mentioned: I would like that it is directly visible in the tray icon an update is due as a reminder: as long as no update is ready, the icon is "normal" - but as soon as an update is ready, the icon changes to red color, an exclamation marked red triangle, or what else - and as soon as the update is installed, it changes back to "normal".
You are right that opening the program window is unnecessary ...
... and thank you again for confirming this!
... but since most of the users have the virus definition updates set to automatic and keeping it on Ask or Manual is quite rare, I kinda doubt the behavior will be changed (as some users might be used to how it's now, so additional program settings would probably required... just not worth, sorry).
sorry, but why aren't you just providing an option whether to show or not show the main window while updating? As you don't show it while automatic updating, but showing while asked updating, it seems to be just a simple routine to kick on opening that window.
btw: argumenting with "this is so because it is so and users are used to it beacause it is so as it was introduced after version 4 (AVAST4 did not have the main window opening while updating)" is no valid logic - sorry ...
something else: also microsoft windows update is not showing the main window when manually updating - just because it is not necessary. but if you want to see it, you just need to click or right click the tray icon.
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Basically, all the important functionality is already there with the "Ask" setting.
@Igor, the difference is that after Avast knows that there is an update available (it checks every 4 hours), "ask" will "bother" him, while "manual" will still let him know that an update is available, but it won't bother him (won't "ask").
You get a popup when the definitions update is available - if you want to install it, fine, if you don't want to at the moment, you can e.g. pin it on the screen (or just forget about it and wait for the next one).
You are right that opening the program window is unnecessary - but since most of the users have the virus definition updates set to automatic and keeping it on Ask or Manual is quite rare, I kinda doubt the behavior will be changed (as some users might be used to how it's now, so additional program settings would probably required... just not worth, sorry).
@Igor, here I disagree with you. If most users use it as "automatic", then a little group use it as "ask" or "manual". Why opening a complete full-screen GUI, when it is clearly not necessary? All the needed functionality for this case/set can be done from the tray (which already includes "silent mode" and "updates"). The requested behaviour would be only an improvement for these group of users.
And what about the combination of these settings with the current "silent mode"? With silent mode "on", the full-screen GUI shouldn't be bothering the user, correct? But since the OP refuses to try it...
If Avast Team won't change (read as "improve") the behaviour just because of "conserving what users are used to", then no improvement would be made. Instead of the full-screen GUI, it would be only a tray notification. The rest is the same.
I still think that for this user in particular he should try the "manual" database update with some additional optional setting's changes, but the suggested improvement is still valid IMO (or just explain to the OP the exact combination of currently available settings to get what he wants).
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Basically, all the important functionality is already there with the "Ask" setting.
@Igor, the difference is that after Avast knows that there is an update available (it checks every 4 hours), "ask" will "bother" him, while "manual" will still let him know that an update is available, but it won't bother him (won't "ask").
NO - THE ANNOUNCEMENT IS NOT BOTHERING ME - BUT I CANNOT ALLOW TO INSTALL THE UPDATE AT THAT MOMENT!!!
You get a popup when the definitions update is available - if you want to install it, fine, if you don't want to at the moment, you can e.g. pin it on the screen (or just forget about it and wait for the next one).
You are right that opening the program window is unnecessary - but since most of the users have the virus definition updates set to automatic and keeping it on Ask or Manual is quite rare, I kinda doubt the behavior will be changed (as some users might be used to how it's now, so additional program settings would probably required... just not worth, sorry).
@Igor, here I disagree with you. If most users use it as "automatic", then a little group use it as "ask" or "manual". Why opening a complete full-screen GUI, when it is clearly not necessary? All the needed functionality for this case/set can be done from the tray (which already includes "silent mode" and "updates"). The requested behaviour would be only an improvement for these group of users.
And what about the combination of these settings with the current "silent mode"? With silent mode "on", the full-screen GUI shouldn't be bothering the user, correct? But since the OP refuses to try it...
Sorry, but "silent mode" is "no announcement at all - even not any kind of confirmaton of 'update was successful' or else" - and that's not requested here! And "silent-mode" is just the contrary to "ask-mode".
If Avast Team won't change (read as "improve") the behaviour just because of "conserving what users are used to", then no improvement would be made. Instead of the full-screen GUI, it would be only a tray notification. The rest is the same.
that would not be "silent mode"
I still think that for this user in particular he should try the "manual" database update with some additional optional setting's changes, but the suggested improvement is still valid IMO (or just explain to the OP the exact combination of currently available settings to get what he wants).
I am not sure if you got the problem (but Igor did): I am NOT bothered about any update announcement, but I am bothered about the unnecessary main window opening while updating in "ask-mode"! And I need "ask-mode" as I cannot permit updating when the situation does not allow it!
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sorry, but why aren't you just providing an option whether to show or not show the main window while updating? As you don't show it while automatic updating, but showing while asked updating, it seems to be just a simple routine to kick on opening that window.
btw: argumenting with "this is so because it is so and users are used to it beacause it is so as it was introduced after version 4 (AVAST4 did not have the main window opening while updating)" is no valid logic - sorry ...
Might be "invalid logic" for you, but it doesn't mean it is so. Simply changing the behavior would probably result in a number of users writing to the tech support asking why the manual updates stopped working - which they'd assume if the program window suddenly stopped appearing (and an additional tech support traffic is certainly unwanted). Comparing with avast! 4 is hardly relevant - it's basically a completely different product.
As for "why aren't you just"... sure, it's always "just". I am just saying that it's a feature request that would take some, possibly small, effort to implement, if it's GUI change, then some additional effort to localize into those 37 languages... and that the priority of such a change is (IMHO) rather low - that's all. I'm not saying I wouldn't find such an option reasonable. But you know, there's always quite a few of those small features waiting in queue...
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@Anacunga, I indeed understood what you want/need.
About using the word "notification". I chose the wrong word, since it is interpreted as "tray notification". I understood what you want, and I respect your choice. Other users simply said "you need to use automatic", and you chose to answer their posts instead of carefully reading my suggestion.
From you recurrent answers, it is clear that you don't understand the difference between your Avast "checking" the availability of a database update every 4 hours ("240 min"), and "applying" it whenever you decide. Both "ask" and "manual" respect that.
If you set it to "manual", it doesn't mean you need to do ALL manually. Avast still gets to know when there is a database update available, so no manual "checking" (contrary to what you previously understood).
If you set it to "manual", you don't get the automatic "database update available" notifications.
Note: BTW, if a new update is available and you happen to open the full GUI, no matter the "manual" or the "ask", you still will see the availability of the new update for you to apply (contrary to your previous misunderstanding). Of course, you don't want to do this, and you don't need to.
BUT, the Windows Security Center and Avast still knows about the databaseand update availability and the Avast tray icon "should" change to show you an exclamation mark. The reason I use "should" is because I haven't tested myself (yet), but it is supposed to do that. How? Keep reading.
TRY the following.
1_ settings -> status bar -> UNcheck definitions auto update, (but leave virus definition version "on")
2_ settings -> updates -> select "engine and virus definitions" "manual update".
Just TRY it, for, say, 24 or 36 hours. Pay attention to the Avast Tray icon and the Windows Security Center Tray Icon (if and when it appears).
If any of those 2 icons shows up, then you know that a new database is available for you to apply whenever you want (just as with "ask", but with the icon instead of the tray notification or the full-screen GUI).
Just TRY it. If it is not "perfect", or something won't work as expected, then you change back, or you change some other setting in addition. I might be wrong.
It's up to you to at least test it.
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BTW, Right-click Avast icon -> update, so "manual" doesn't mean opening the full GUI and you don't need the notifications (besides the icon changing).
I don't know if the full GUI will be automatically opened after the update with this 2 settings I suggest to try. That's part of your test.
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@Anacunga, I indeed understood what you want/need.
Obviously you don't - sorry to tell you that!
If you set it to "manual", you don't get the automatic "database update available" notifications.
BUT I WANT THOSE "DATABASE UPDATE AVAILABLE" ANNOUNCEMENTS IMMEDIATELY AFTER THEY ARE ISSUED!!!!!! AND I SET POLL INTERVAL TO 15 OR 20 MINUTES (AND DON'T LEAVE IT ON ANY HOURS OR MORE) SO THAT I GET INFORMED ABOUT THEM AS SOON AS POSSIBLE!! That's why it does absolutely make no sense to set to "manual" - as you don't get the "update available"-information automatically!!!! Setting to "ask" is the right choice here!
And after I got the information that a new update is available, I can click on the avast-tray-icon at any time that fits for me to install the update (but not before!). That's exactly the scenario that "ask" covers!!!
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TRY the following:
1: settings -> status bar -> UNcheck definitions auto update, (but leave virus definition version "on")
2: settings -> updates -> select "engine and virus definitions" "manual update".
OK, I'll try that on one of the machines here - as I see on other machines (that some of them have setting to automatic) when an update was coming in - and I'll see how that setting is behaving ...
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OK, I'll try that on one of the machines here - as I see on other machines (that some of them have setting to automatic) when an update was coming in - and I'll see how that setting is behaving ...
Not every computer gets the notification at the same time, but the other computers should give "some" indication, if they are first connected to the internet at the same time. The main GUI can show you if the database is updated, and when the last check was performed (it won't be every 15 minutes; AFAIK there is a minimum limit but it is not shown in the GUI).
Avast checks the availability every 4 hours since your first connection, even under the "manual database update".
Since the database "version" is still being monitored, the icon should mark the availability of a new database. In theory, the icon should change, (replacing the notification of "ask").
Now, here is when we get to the point where:
A) in theory, it should work;, but,
B) in practice, it may not :(.
As I mentioned in one of my first posts in this topic, the tray notifications and the status bar monitoring (exclamation marks over Avast's icon) are NOT working correctly for all users.
Some users can see the exclamation marks, some don't. Some users are receiving the correct tray notifications, but some are NOT. This is a bug which triggers different behaviours under the same settings.
I myself opened a topic about it, with several users reporting different behaviours (while using the same settings).
So, I hope you can see the exclamation mark over the icon when a new database is available, as you should (in theory in general, and in practice for "some" users).
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Now, here is when we get to the point where:
A) in theory, it should work - but
B) in practice, it may not :(
And that's the case: it does not work!
But anyway: that with the question-mark-triangle should in theory also work in "ask"-mode ... but it does not work either ...
btw: that's exactly what I was asking for: that you can see in the look of the tray icon itself whether an update is due or not.
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Now, here is when we get to the point where:
A) in theory, it should work - but
B) in practice, it may not :(
And that's the case: it does not work!
But anyway: that with the question-mark-triangle should in theory also work in "ask"-mode ... but it does not work either ...
btw: that's exactly what I was asking for: that you can see in the look of the tray icon itself whether an update is due or not.
If you carefully read my posts in this topic, you will find:
A) Whether the database updates are "automatic", "ask" or "manual, the "checking" of available database updates is still automatically performed (it depends on a different separate set). This was a concern of yours. Now you finally understand the difference between "checking" and "applying" the updates.
B) Unfortunately, the exclamation mark seems to be not working (the set is ignored). I also tested it in my system, and it also failed to work. As I said, this is a BUG, and it is not the only one in relation to the tray icon and tray notifications. Some users can see it, but some users have different behaviours with the same settings.
C) Whether the update is set to "manual" or "ask", the non-automatic update triggers the full-screen GUI (which was the other part that bothered to the OP ). This is NOT a bug, but I agree with Anacunga that this behaviour should be improved. An option/setting should be added, to either
C.a_ open the full GUI (the current "improvable" behaviour); or,
C.b_ only show it as a tray notification; or,
C.c_ only show it as the tray exclamation mark disappearing (from the previous status of "a new database update is available" exclamation mark over the tray icon) when the update is correctly applied.
I don't know if Avast Team would take a look into this improvement or not. According to Igor, they have "many" of these "little improvements". For sure they should take a look into the bug(s) of the tray icon and tray notifications, and while they are at it, they can improve the behaviour as suggested.
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Just an update to some behaviours sited along this topic.
In the current Avast 6.0.1289, the "manual" update setting won't attempt to check for availability (as it used to be in previous versions). This is perfectly acceptable IMHO.
For "ask", Avast still checks for available updates, and shows a tray notification asking if the user wants to update or not in that same moment. The user can always do a manual update in a later moment.
The main GUI also shows if an update is available (not only during the tray notification, but the message is kept in the main GUI so to be seen at any time. This is valid for "ask", not for "manual" (since version 6.0.1289).
About the exclamation mark over Avast tray icon ("unsecured"), it still won't appear after the first new database is available. During recent tests, using "ask", I skipped several database updates in purpose. After several database updates were available but not applied in my system, I finally saw the exclamation mark, but it took (much) more than 24 hours since my previous update was applied, so to finally actually see the exclamation mark over the tray icon.
IMO, this still needs improvements, and there shouldn't be any reason for 24 - 48 hours so to display the exclamation mark.
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Thanks ... nice to see that and how you work on it!!
Something else in that context: I'm not sure if it is configurable somewhere: when having set to "manual update on demand" and new stuff is ready, a blue info balloon is showing where you can click on it. So far so nice. But by clicking on it, the big maintenance/update-window is showing up. I don't need that big window - but I would appreciate again another info balloon showing up for some seconds (also clickable away) when update was successful. color of it could be red/orange if some major problems occurred (update did not install or else), color could be green when all installed fine, color could be yellow or orange when some attention needed (again another update following or else). Now the balloon color is green when having set to automatic update and blue when set to manual update.
BTW: you got again good rating in latest c't security software test (http://www.heise.de/ct/artikel/Schutzschirme-fuer-Windows-1338363.html) with the remark: a software that you have really big configuration possibilities.
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@Anacunga, I just want to be clear. When you say "you", do you mean "Avast"?
Avast Team members are the ones that *should* be working on this. They aren't. I am (by testing and reporting, here in this topic and in another one I opened for this purpose).
Your request is essentially the same as it was before, months ago. Avast developers may change the behaviour in the future Avast 7 (please don't ask when :) ). I doubt they will do it for Avast 6.x (and, again, just to be clear, I have absolutely no idea at all if your request will be even considered, discussed, implemented...).
I am still testing the "ask" configuration, as I do every time a new program update is released. After more than 5 days from my latest database update, the "Virus definitions update" in Status Bar monitoring is still not kicking in, and Avast says that my system is "secured". I don't think that *any* frequent forum member would agree with Avast in that my system is "secured" after 5 days without updating. (Once again, my system has no problem, and I could perform a database update if I want to; but I am testing the settings so obviously...)
I have seen reports here saying that Avast "suddenly" says the system is NOT secured, and only part of those reports are setting-related. Users should be informed when the system is not being updated, and one clear method is the exclamation mark over Avast tray icon, which unfortunately is NOT working as it should. So users are discovering this after "a too-long time" (weeks). IMO, unacceptable :(.
The only real (good, IMHO) news is what I already reported: under "manual" Avast no longer checks for availability of database updates. Of course under "ask" it must and it does.
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@Anacunga, I just want to be clear. When you say "you", do you mean "Avast"?
Avast Team members are the ones that *should* be working on this. They aren't. I am (by testing and reporting, here in this topic and in another one I opened for this purpose).
Oh ... what dit I write ... ;) ... I was assuming that some of the inner circle here are from the side of avast themselves - but that might not be so much the case as I was assuming ... sorry for that ... ;)
But there is/was some (little) progress with the ballon: now there is a visible click-button - and when you click it, the balloon really disappears. Before the balloon did not disappear - and you even were able to click several times on "update now" - what just brought the big window in front when the update was already in progress.
Your request is essentially the same as it was before, months ago. Avast developers may change the behaviour in the future Avast 7 (please don't ask when :) ). I doubt they will do it for Avast 6.x (and, again, just to be clear, I have absolutely no idea at all if your request will be even considered, discussed, implemented...).
As there is progress (but little - see above), I would not exclude some behaviour change in user information about update progress - but ... ;)
I am still testing the "ask" configuration, as I do every time a new program update is released. After more than 5 days from my latest database update, the "Virus definitions update" in Status Bar monitoring is still not kicking in, and Avast says that my system is "secured". I don't think that *any* frequent forum member would agree with Avast in that my system is "secured" after 5 days without updating. (Once again, my system has no problem, and I could perform a database update if I want to; but I am testing the settings so obviously...)
Does avast have some check in case some desktop-firewall-setting is inhibiting update progress or similar stuff?
I have seen reports here saying that Avast "suddenly" says the system is NOT secured, and only part of those reports are setting-related. Users should be informed when the system is not being updated, and one clear method is the exclamation mark over Avast tray icon, which unfortunately is NOT working as it should. So users are discovering this after "a too-long time" (weeks). IMO, unacceptable :(.
I have anoter thing that bothers me: I use very old software that a) uses ads from the web and b) "phones back home" to the programmers. For using it I block that IP-Port used for "phoning back" with the desktop-firewall - but avast always considers even the installer of it as "malware".
The only real (good, IMHO) news is what I already reported: under "manual" Avast no longer checks for availability of database updates. Of course under "ask" it must and it does.
That's how it should be from the beginning on ...
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But there is/was some (little) progress with the ballon: now there is a visible click-button - and when you click it, the balloon really disappears. Before the balloon did not disappear - and you even were able to click several times on "update now" - what just brought the big window in front when the update was already in progress.
Are you talking about the tray notifications? I have never had any problem closing a tray notification. For me (and I know that for many other users too) the tray notifications have a little "X", just as any other windows (but much smaller and with a different look, but still the function is the same). You can also set the time it is shown on your screen before it automatically disappears (default 20 seconds).
If you click to update, let it update and the tray notification will go by itself.
In addition, the tray notification doesn't "steal" focus, so even if you don't click on it, you can still keep working and manually update later if that's what you want in that particular moment.
As there is progress (but little - see above), I would not exclude some behaviour change in user information about update progress - but ... ;)
Sure, but before they even get to the point where they change that behaviour, they should make it work successfully first :). As I recall, the original answer from an Avast Team member was something like: "users are used to it (the full screen) and they expect it, so not sure it will be changed, or even if it possible". Not sure about the exact words, but I think that was "the spirit". Anyway, hope never dies :)...
Does avast have some check in case some desktop-firewall-setting is inhibiting update progress or similar stuff?
I don't understand the question. Please elaborate.
I have anoter thing that bothers me: I use very old software that a) uses ads from the web and b) "phones back home" to the programmers. For using it I block that IP-Port used for "phoning back" with the desktop-firewall - but avast always considers even the installer of it as "malware".
I'm not sure I am the one most knowledgeable about that, but in any case it would be better to start a new topic, as it is a completely separate issue. You would probably get more specific and useful answers about it.
The only real (good, IMHO) news is what I already reported: under "manual" Avast no longer checks for availability of database updates. Of course under "ask" it must and it does.
That's how it should be from the beginning on ...
Well, that shows that there *are* improvements, and this forum is an important part of it. Keep reporting whatever you think doesn't work, and posting ideas (and even better possible solutions :) ).
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But there is/was some (little) progress with the ballon: now there is a visible click-button - and when you click it, the balloon really disappears. Before the balloon did not disappear - and you even were able to click several times on "update now" - what just brought the big window in front when the update was already in progress.
Are you talking about the tray notifications? I have never had any problem closing a tray notification. For me (and I know that for many other users too) the tray notifications have a little "X", just as any other windows (but much smaller and with a different look, but still the function is the same). You can also set the time it is shown on your screen before it automatically disappears (default 20 seconds).
If you click to update, let it update and the tray notification will go by itself.
In addition, the tray notification doesn't "steal" focus, so even if you don't click on it, you can still keep working and manually update later if that's what you want in that particular moment.
No - I was not thinking on the tray-icon-notificiation itself, but on the small "window" that appears to tell that there is a virus-database ready for download.
Before, you could click several times to "start the download", now the balloon is disappearing (as I would expect it) as soon as you have clicked to start the download.
But I still do not consider the big window as necessary - and I hate windows that are stealing focus (even when that should be disabled in the system-options with tweakui)!
As there is progress (but little - see above), I would not exclude some behaviour change in user information about update progress - but ... ;)
Sure, but before they even get to the point where they change that behaviour, they should make it work successfully first :). As I recall, the original answer from an Avast Team member was something like: "users are used to it (the full screen) and they expect it, so not sure it will be changed, or even if it possible". Not sure about the exact words, but I think that was "the spirit". Anyway, hope never dies :)...
I really do not appreciate that kind of paternalism, what I have to be used to - specially if I hate some behaviour - and that's generally the case!
Does avast have some check in case some desktop-firewall-setting is inhibiting update progress or similar stuff?
I don't understand the question. Please elaborate.
Here I was making the point if it would be possible to block or inhibit the update functionality - just by blocking the needed "path" for the update; some kind of: update thinks that it is making an update - but there is no update server reachable, therefore there is no update to do.
I have anoter thing that bothers me: I use very old software that a) uses ads from the web and b) "phones back home" to the programmers. For using it I block that IP-Port used for "phoning back" with the desktop-firewall - but avast always considers even the installer of it as "malware".
I'm not sure I am the one most knowledgeable about that, but in any case it would be better to start a new topic, as it is a completely separate issue. You would probably get more specific and useful answers about it.
That's not a real issue - the workaround (by declaring the filename as exception) is working so far.
The only real (good, IMHO) news is what I already reported: under "manual" Avast no longer checks for availability of database updates. Of course under "ask" it must and it does.
That's how it should be from the beginning on ...
Well, that shows that there *are* improvements, and this forum is an important part of it. Keep reporting whatever you think doesn't work, and posting ideas (and even better possible solutions :) ).
Sure I will ... :)