Really unusual thing just happened, and thought you guys might like an FYI.
I seem to have fixed it, but still interesting to note...
Was previously using Avast 4 with no problems (amazing software, by the way... catches more than McAffee Enterprise at work before I even open the webpage!).
Using XP Pro with Automatic Updates enabled (ugh... yes, I know, I know... ha ha).
Somehow (
) Avast4 just stops working.
Not showing up in Systray, so I go DL & try to install Avast5.
After reboot, the PC comes back up with red "X" on Avast5 systray icon (showing that it is not running).
I check Services.msc, and it shows service is not started.
I try to start service, but it fails, citing file not found.
(Great, I think, my first virus with Avast in almost 2 years!)
I open the properties of the service, and see that file location is pointing to "...\Avast5\...", but actual folder name is still "...\Avast4\..." (from previous installation, I guess)
For giggles I rename the folder to "...\Avast5\..." & try again, but naturally, it doesn't work (would have been interesting, though!).
Short version:
reboot to safe mode
check for obvious signs of virii (google unexpected startup files on separate PC, check startup services, registry entries in "...\HKLM\...\run" etc)
uninstall Avast5
reboot to safe mode again
reinstall Avast5
reboot to normal mode
And voila, the systray icon indicates Avast5 works!
Aaaand I immediately schedule a boot-time scan just in case (which I shall perform right after this post).
...
Really, really odd how Avast4 just spontaneously uninstalled itself.
Makes me wonder if some wires got crossed when it was trying to update with Alwil.
But I don't know enough about the system to make that claim.
Anywho, I hope this helps others / provokes some thoughtful consideration.
Take care!
