Trying different proxy settings are unlikely to resolve this and more likely to cause issues as and when it is resolved. The best setting is Direct Connection (no proxy), image.
Try a repair of avast:
XP - Add Remove programs, select 'avast! Anti-Virus,' click the Change/Remove button and scroll down to Repair, click next and follow.
Vista, win7 - Control Panel, Programs & Features, uninstall a program, select 'avast! Anti-Virus,' click the Change/Remove button and scroll down to Repair, click next and follow.
You may need to reboot after the repair.