Microsoft blocks Windows 10 updates for some AVG, Avast antivirus users

Microsoft started rolling out the latest version of Windows 10 to eligible devices a couple of weeks ago. Called the Windows 10 November 2019 Update (or version 1909), the latest feature update brings a few new features to Microsoft's popular PC operating system.

Unfortunately, not all users are able to update to it. More specifically, users of AVG and Avast antivirus products are reportedly seeing an error that is preventing them from updating Windows to version 1909. Microsoft has since addressed the update issue in a support document on its website.

According to an investigation by Microsoft and Avast, any software product by AVG or Avast that is of the antivirus version 19.5.4444.567 or earlier, poses compatibility issues with the latest versions of Windows 10, i.e., versions 1903 and 1909. For this reason, the Redmond-based software giant has "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."

If you're an affected AVG or Avast user, there is little need to worry. The workaround to get Windows Update up and running again is fairly simple. If you use Avast antivirus, right-click the Avast icon in the Windows system tray, hover over Update and then select Program. Here are detailed instructions to do the same. If you use AVG antivirus, however, open the antivirus application, access Settings from the 'Menu' button on the top right corner, select Update under General, and finally select Check for Updates in the application section. Here are detailed instructions to do the same.

Once your AVG or Avast antivirus application is up to date, restart your PC. Then head to Windows Update in Settings (an easy keyboard shortcut is Win + I) and click Check for updates. Depending on which version of Windows 10 your PC is currently on, it should start downloading either version 1903 or 1909. The newest version of Windows 10 brings Windows Search to File Explorer, making OneDrive file searches possible within a File Explorer window. It also lets you use third-party virtual assistants (like Amazon Alexa) in the lock screen.