Avast 5 - can't update (stays on "initializing")

[trepamuros]

Hello,
I just updated v4.8 to 5.0.545 -Spanish-. Everything went superb with v4.8.
Using XP SP3 on an Acer Aspire One netbook.

How did I update:
Simply executed v5 setup (while 4.8 was running) and it installed apparently ok. Rebooted when asked me to do that. After reboot, Avast 5 is running (all modules active) and tray icon spins as should.
Database is 2010-06-22 (I guess is the last one).

Now the problem:
If I try to update (either database or program), Avast stays on "1/2 - Initializing", but the progress bar doesn't move. Seems like it can't connect to the update server or somewhat, but no error message is shown - the update progress stays on this point forever (waited 15 minutes then cancelled). Tried several times, always the same.

Tested either from the main interface and from task icon-right button-Update, same happens.

Checked that proxy server is set to not used, same happens.

I don't use a firewall, and checked that Windows Firewall is not active.

Internet connection is running OK.

Is it a server-down issue or am I doing something wrong?

[Asyn]

Post what you see in: settings - updates
asyn

[Lisandro]

Most probably a temporary glitch that should go away after booting...
You don't need to disable Windows Firewall for nothing regarding to avast.

[trepamuros]

I rebooted again and update worked fine.

However, I noticed Avast 5 freezes completely my system, this happened twice (randomly).

So I've reverted to 4.8, which seems to works better.

Thanks anyway.

[Lisandro]

However, I noticed Avast 5 freezes completely my system, this happened twice (randomly).

Well, can you help troubleshoot? More info about your system and security programs will be needed.

So I've reverted to 4.8, which seems to works better.

Less protection and the support will end by the end of this year.

[Asyn]

You can also try the new PR build...
http://forum.avast.com/index.php?topic=61045.0
asyn

[Simon.Starkie]

I just recently installed avast! 5.0.418 on my Windows XP system and the Update also hangs in the Initializing step.
The Update Settings that I am using are described below in upper case:

ENGINE AND VIRUS DEFINITIONS:
Automatic update

PROGRAM:
Ask when an update is available

UPDATE PARAMETERS:
nothing checked

DETAILS:
ASK FOR REBOOT WHEN NEEDED
SHOW NOTIFICATION BOX AFTER AUTOMATIC UPDATE
SHOW NOTIFICATION BOX IF AN ERROR OCCURS

AUTO UPDATE INTERVAL
AUTO-UPDATE EVERY 240 MINUTES

PROXY SETTINGS:
AUTO DETECT (USE INTERNET EXPLORER SETTINGS)

[Onix]

The latest build is 5.0.677. And the best way to install build 677 is an installation from scratch(Tech's recommendations):
1. Download the latest version of avast! Uninstall Utility and save it.
2. Download the latest avast! version and save it.
3. Uninstall avast from Control Panel (if possible). If, for any reason, you can't run it, try booting in Safe Mode and doing it from there. Anyway, boot after that.
4. Run the avast! Uninstall Utility saved on 1. If, for any reason, you can't run it, try booting in Safe Mode and doing it from there. Anyway, boot after you've run it.
5. Install avast! using the setup saved on 2. Boot.
6. Register your free copy or add the license key for Pro.
7. Check and post the results.

[Asyn]

The latest build is 5.0.677.

+1
.418 is way outdated...
asyn

[Simon.Starkie]

Problem solved thanks to the good info I found above.
Basically, I had to go into Control Panel > Add/Remove Programms > Avast and run the Repair tool.
I then ran the Update option and noticed it was failing with the Proxy test.
Not sure what I did exactly to get it working but eventually, after a reboot, the Update function started working from the UI.

BTW after the Update ran successfully, I checked and found it's now running
PROGRAM VERSION 5.0.677
VIRUS DEFINITION VERSION 100921-1

Also, the older 5.0.418 version is what was linked in the Email when I bought the software on 09-15.

Thanks for the help guys and CHEERS
 

[Asyn]

Thanks for the help guys and CHEERS

Good, it's solved for you now...!
asyn