Windows 8.1 update causes issues if Avast is installed

A recent update to Windows 8.1 is causing several issues for users who have Avast 2015 installed. Reports include slow responding and crashing computers. Uninstalling Avast seems to fix the issues.

The issues appear for Windows 8.1 users after they install update KB3000850, according to experiences posted on the Avast forum. After installation, the operating system responds slowly and applications do not function properly. Users also report that the computer no longer wants to shut down when KB3000850 is installed, while others do not want the computer to start anymore.

It is possible to fix the issues by uninstalling Avast antivirus software; Windows 8.1 users who reinstall Avast after uninstalling report that they have the mentioned problems again. The problems seem to be mainly with the 2015 version of Avast, with both the free and paid versions.

Incidentally, the antivirus maker has confirmed the problems and is working on rolling out a patch so that Windows 8.1 users should be problem-free again with the update in question. This fix should be available to Avast users soon.