Hi Neety :
Norton Antivirus must be COMPLETELY removed for Avast
to function correctly, which also may affect your inability
to open your hotmail emails. If Symantec/Norton's
"SymNRT" does not get rid of what remains of Norton on
your computer, I recommend you install, then use a
program called "Unlocker" available from :
http://ccollomb.free.fr/unlocker/ .
Since you did NOT mention having any antiSPYWARE
programs on your computer, I suspect you have spyware
which is effecting your computer. Would recommend you
download, then install "Ewido" from
www.ewido.net/en ;
this good & FREE program "specializes" in detecting AND
removing trojans, worms, etc which you most likely have
on your computer .