The latest anti-virus update from AVG screws up badly 64-bit computers that run Windows 7. After installing the update, you are instructed to reboot the computer. Upon rebooting, Windows 7 complains it has problems and will attempt to fix them automatically.
After several minutes, Windows 7 will say that it cannot fix itself, and mistakenly suggests that you unplug any external devices you may have recently plugged in, such as a digital camera or music player. This, however, does not solve the problem.
AVG has a solution, but it is one that is probably too complex for most users. It involves downloading (on a second computer) a fix, burning it onto a CD, and then booting the stricken computer through its DVD drive. The CD contains a customized version of Linux; AVG then requires you to perform DOS-like file operations. I have found an easier method.
When Windows 7 fails in its attempt to repair itself, it presents a dialog box on the screen. There is an option discretely labeled "Advanced." Click it.
The next dialog box lists a column of options. Choose the one that involves rolling back. (I don't have the screens in front of me, so I am guessing at the wording.)
Roll back the Windows 7 system by one step, and then reboot the computer.
Windows 7 will now operate normally, but AVG will keep bugging you to reboot the computer "to complete the installation." Don't, because after you reboot, it will just keep bugging you to reboot.
Instead, go into Control Panel and then uninstall AVG.Now you can reboot.
Upon rebooting, AVG will launch your computer's Web browser, and then open a page for providing feedback about the installation. I choose option "Other," explaining that AVG's update badly damaged my computer.
The final step is to install another anti-virus program.
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