combo fix don't

I've used combofix successfully before. Now I can't. AVG won't uninstall - access denied. Can't browse in safe mode. Combo fix runs but won't fix. Windows malicious tool sees nothing. antivrus scan whitecloud hell. Help.

Edit: Moved topic from XP to the more appropriate forum. ~ Animal

System restore disabled.

This is a known isuue between CFix and AVG. ComboFix will not run until AVG is uninstalled as a protective measure against the anti-virus. This is because AVG "falsely" detects ComboFix (or its embedded files) as a threat and may remove these files resulting in the tool not working correctly which in turn can cause damaging or "unpredictable results". This is an issue with AVG and since it cannot be effectively disabled before running ComboFix, the author recommends users to uninstall AVG first in order to avoid any possible issues.

AVG also has issues with other security tools like Malwarebytes' Anti-Malware. Please read Section H here. Related discussions at AVG:

• AVG 2011 Free vs. Malwarebytes
• AVG 2011 Resident Shield - File Exclude List Feature Removed

Further, no one should be using ComboFix unless specifically instructed to do so by a Malware Removal Expert who can interpret the logs. It is a powerful tool intended by its creator to be "used under the guidance and supervision of an expert. Using this tool incorrectly could lead to disastrous problems with your operating system such as preventing it from ever starting again. When issues arise with other security tools conflicting with ComboFix, experts are aware of them and can advise users what should or should not be done while providing assistance. Those attempting to use ComboFix on their own do not have such information and are at risk when running the tool in an unsupervised environment. Please read the pinned topic ComboFix usage, Questions, Help? - Look here.



AVG Remover

Edited by boopme, 17 December 2010 - 08:31 PM.

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.