Can't open Avast or uninstall it. Here's what I've tried...

[essexboy]

Still checking the hardware code out this may take a few hours

[REDACTED]

Ok, thanks!

[essexboy]

Elizabeth, have you backed up your data ?  If not I would suggest you do that as in 50% of the cases I have looked at so far the only resolution was to re-install windows.. 


Meanwhile

Open an elevated command prompt
Go Start > All programs > accessories
Right click command prompt and select run as administrator
In the black box that opens copy/paste the following command and press enter :

sfc /scannow

Once completed reboot and see if the same error occurs..

Do you get the same error when you try to install other programmes

[REDACTED]

Yikes! Ok, I'm going to back-up everything now.  Then I'll try the sfc / scannow command.  I'll let you know what happens.

I haven't tried to install any other programs but will try and see if I receive the same error notice.

Thank you!

[REDACTED]

Just finished the back-up.  While I was backing up, I got a pop up message that said "Windows detected a hard disk problem.  Back up files immediately, etc.  Replace or repair the hard disk."  So I haven't done anything else yet.  I read that this could be malware on my system made to look like a real system message.  Or the obvious likelihood that my hard disk is failing.  I'm guessing both options are pretty bad.

Unfortunately I'm leaving town and won't be able to address this further until Tuesday.  Thank you for your help thus far!  If you have any recommendations for what I should do next when I get back into town I would greatly appreciate it.  I guess I'm not sure whether this is an Avast-related issue anymore.  Thank you!!

[schmidthouse]

Hi
I've been following the progress and concede to Essexboy's further instruction, however the Window message doesn't look good as when that message is given a Hard Drive failure is usually  coming.
I say that from previous personal experience.
Nevertheless, wait for Essexboy to direct you further.
Good luck

[REDACTED]

Will do - thank you!

[schmidthouse]

You're welcome. 

[essexboy]

Yes complete the back up, if it was malware putting that up there would be a link to download the all singing all dancing cure.  Windows just tells you, you have a problem 

[REDACTED]

Hi - just wanted to send an update since you (essexboy) were so helpful and gave me so much of your time.  Shortly after my last post the hard disk failed.  Thanks for the suggestion to stop and back up my files before that happened!  I'm starting over with a new hard drive and hopefully won't run into any of the same issues.  Thank you again for your help!

[essexboy]

Hope all is well now