Weird update issues with Free, Win 7 x64 (winsock, repository fixes don't work)

[bob3160]

If Repair doesn't fix the problem, try the following:
If your Avast settings are not the default settings and you want them restored after the Clean Install, follow this before removing Avast.
https://goo.gl/TXjM7h
Clean Install of Avast:
https://goo.gl/4Ptzkf
If you need additional help with the Clean Install, watch this:
https://youtu.be/p-h3myRD51A

[Noneed Tuno]

- Which Avast..? (Free/Pro/IS/Premier)
- Which version..?
- OS..? (32/64 Bit..? - which SP/Build..?)
- Other security related software installed..?
- Which AV(s) did you use before Avast..?

Win 7 Home Premium x64 SP1 (where it has remained for years, BTW)

Avast Free
Program version 19.1.2364 (build 19.2.4186.431)
Virus definitions version 190226-6
UI version 1.0.337

I have Spybot Search & Destroy (free version, most recent - no active scanning; auto updates not available)
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware (free), RogueKiller Anti-Malware. Neither of these have auto-updates available.
CCleaner x64 free (no auto updates), ADWCleaner (another freeware program with manual updates).
Nothing that would interfere with the normal program or service updates for either Windows or Avast.

I use manual updates on almost everything, because 1) diligence (I see what's needed, when needed); 2) it doesn't eat up my net usage (watching my bills).

Other AV's?
Years ago, I used Norton, but then they tried to bill me for an unauthorized auto-update which I didn't consent to.
After that, I used Avast Free, and never looked back.
This desktop has always used Avast Free, since it was new (2014).

[Noneed Tuno]

If Repair doesn't fix the problem, try the following:
If your Avast settings are not the default settings and you want them restored after the Clean Install, follow this before removing Avast.
https://goo.gl/TXjM7h
Clean Install of Avast:
https://goo.gl/4Ptzkf
If you need additional help with the Clean Install, watch this:
https://youtu.be/p-h3myRD51A

I can't access Clean Install when the GUI doesn't come up, and the icon in the System Tray is X'ed out.
I was able to get engine and virus definition updates through Control Panel/Change.
I'm using default settings.
I rebuilt the repository using Sys Admin in CMD again, which seems to work until the next update for Avast or Win.

I'll repeat for emphasis: Every update of either Win 7 x64 or Avast Free (engine or virus defs) locks me out of the GUI.

[bob3160]

The GUI isn't needed when doing  clean install.

[Noneed Tuno]

Bob, if it happens again, I'll try the Uninstall Tool. Downloading it JIC.

I can also uninstall from CCleaner, and wipe the registry as well; I'll do it by the book at first.

[bob3160]

Update this thread if you get a chance to use it.

[Asyn]

I have Spybot Search & Destroy (free version, most recent - no active scanning; auto updates not available)

Get rid of Spybot, it's known for conflicts.

[Noneed Tuno]

I have Spybot Search & Destroy (free version, most recent - no active scanning; auto updates not available)

Get rid of Spybot, it's known for conflicts.

Can you point me to the info? I use it mostly for controlling autoruns and compiling HJT logs.
If there's a better freeware, I won't mind swapping.

[Noneed Tuno]

Update this thread if you get a chance to use it.

Roger that.

[bob3160]

I have Spybot Search & Destroy (free version, most recent - no active scanning; auto updates not available)

Get rid of Spybot, it's known for conflicts.

Can you point me to the info? I use it mostly for controlling autoruns and compiling HJT logs.
If there's a better freeware, I won't mind swapping.

Malwarebytes.

[Noneed Tuno]

Does MWB compile HJT logs?

[bob3160]

Does MWB compile HJT logs?

No and HJT is old and unused technology.

[Noneed Tuno]

Perhaps, but that's what I learned on.

I studied PC-DOS 5.x, Windows 3.1, all on an IBM microchannel 386.
I know I'm woefully behind the times, but I'm trying to catch up.

[Noneed Tuno]

It happened again... locked out of the GUI with yellow triangle on the system tray icon, and red-circle X on the Action Center flag.

I went into Safe Mode and used Avast Clear. Fresh install when in full mode.

All clear, but why is this happening?

[bob3160]

See if removing Spybot solves the problem.