There have been reports of
issues with the computer starting properly on 64-bit Windows sytems for which AVG has had to release these
fix instructions.
There have also been reported
problems with computers after using new features like
PC Analyzer and
PC Tuneup which purport to fix registry errors in order to make the system more stable and various optimizing tools which can make changes to system settings.
I do not recommend the routine use of registry cleaners/optimizers as they are extremely powerful applications that can damage the
Windows registry by using aggressive cleaning routines and cause your computer to become unbootable. The registry is a central repository (database) for storing configuration data, user settings and machine-dependent settings, and options for the operating system. It contains information and settings for all hardware, software, users, and preferences. Whenever a user makes changes to settings, file associations, system policies, or installed software, the changes are reflected and stored in this repository. The
registry is a crucial component because it is where Windows "
remembers" all this information, how it works together, how Windows boots the system and what files it uses when it does. The registry is also a vulnerable subsystem, in that relatively
small changes done incorrectly can render the system inoperable. Using registry cleaning tools
unnecessarily or
incorrectly could lead to disastrous effects on your operating system such as preventing it from booting properly. For routine use, the benefits to your computer are negligible while the
potential risks are great.
For these reasons, I no longer recommend AVG as a free alternative.
If you have difficulty uninstalling AVG, download and use
Opswat AppRemover.