Just guessing and trying to help:
Make sure your browser is not set to "Work Offline" (this option is generally in the File menu). If it doesn't help, try switching the proxy settings from "Auto-detect" to "No proxy" (I'm assuming you're not connecting to the Internet via proxy).
Left click the avast icon > Settings
Update (Basic) > Details > Proxy
Not on "work offline"

I already tried switching over to no proxy.
Avast is set to automatic proxy.
Btw, I DO appreciate your help.
