Oops! AVG Virus Scanner Crashes Computers
The problem stemmed from a new virus definition file. As a result, AVG recommended that its users who receive updated definitions automatically disable this auto-update feature and cancel any scans that are currently running.
The problem originally appeared limited to Windows XP systems, though some Vista users have also reported issues. Computers that are affected will either stop booting entirely or will go through an endless reboot loop. To resolve the issue, affected users must carry out a bothersome repair process, which includes reinstalling Windows, repairing the OS with a Windows disk, or using a boot disc to grab the files you need from the C:\Windows\System32\dllcache directory.
Both AVG 7.5 and AVG 8.0 were affected by the faulty definition file. The good news is that the file has since been updated to remove the error.
We’re not trying to dog on AVG here. After all, the company does protect many a computer from harm. It just goes to show that it’s a scary digital world from which no computer is safe. Alternatives to AVG exist, as well. Some are free, some are paid, but no antivirus seems to be perfect.