Microsoft Blocks Windows 10 Updates for AVG and Avast Antivirus PCs

Microsoft has confirmed it has blocked Windows updates for some users of AVG and Avast antivirus software. Redmond says the block has been introduced because of a compatibility issue with Windows 10. Windows 10 versions 1909 and 1903 (November and May 2019 updates) are blocked for AVG and Avast version 19.5.4444.567 or earlier. “To safeguard your upgrade experience, we have applied a hold on devices with affected Avast and AVG Antivirus from being offered or installing Windows 10, version 1903 or Windows 10, version 1909, until the application is updated,” Microsoft says. Avast purchased AVG in 2016 and the company has sent out an update to help users get around the block. Installation instructions for those updates are available on Avast and AVG support pages.

Affected Versions

According to AVG's support page, the company says Microsoft has blocked Windows Updates on the following versions:

• AVG Ultimate 19.5 and lower
• AntiVirus FREE 19.5 and lower
• AVG Internet Security 19.5 and lower

As for Avast, the following versions are affected:

• Avast Premium Security 19.5 and lower
• Internet Security 19.5 and lower
• Avast Premier 19.5 and lower
• Avast Free Antivirus 19.5 and lower

“To safeguard your upgrade experience, we have applied a hold on devices with affected Qualcomm driver from being offered Windows 10, version 1809, Windows 10, version 1903, or Windows 10, version 1909, until the updated driver is installed,” Microsoft explains in a support page.