How to Fix Avast Online Content Is Unavailable Error on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

Avast Antivirus is a popular security solution for Windows 11 users. Sometimes, users encounter the “Online Content Is Unavailable” error, which can disrupt Avast’s functionality. This issue often happens when Avast cannot connect to its online servers or update its virus definitions.

Fixing this error ensures your antivirus stays up to date and keeps your computer protected. Luckily, the troubleshooting steps are straightforward and easy to follow. In this article, we will guide you through simple and detailed solutions to resolve this problem on Windows 11.

Before diving into advanced fixes, it’s best to start with basic checks that might quickly solve the issue. Each step includes explanations, so even beginners can understand why it matters.

Let’s begin by ensuring the essential settings and connections are in place.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

Check your internet connection: Avast needs a stable internet connection to access online content and updates. Make sure your PC is connected to the internet.
Disable airplane mode: If airplane mode is on, it blocks all network connections. Turn it off in Windows settings.
Verify Avast subscription status: An expired subscription might limit access to online features. Confirm your subscription is active.
Run Windows Update: Sometimes, outdated Windows system files can interfere with Avast. Ensure Windows 11 is fully updated.

Step 1: Restart Your Computer and Avast Service

Restarting your computer is the simplest way to fix many temporary glitches. It refreshes system processes and network connections.

How to restart Avast service:

Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type services.msc and press Enter.
In the Services window, scroll down to find Avast Antivirus or Avast Antivirus Service.
Right-click it and select Restart.
Wait a few seconds, then close the window.

Restarting the service ensures Avast’s background process reconnects to the internet, potentially fixing the “Online Content Is Unavailable” error.

Step 2: Check Firewall and Proxy Settings

Windows Firewall or other firewall programs may block Avast from accessing its online servers. Similarly, incorrect proxy settings can prevent internet access.

To check Windows Firewall:

Press Windows + S and type Windows Defender Firewall, then open it.
Click Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall on the left panel.
Locate Avast Antivirus and ensure both Private and Public checkboxes are checked.
If Avast is not listed, click Allow another app… and add Avast manually.
Click OK to save changes.

To check proxy settings:

Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Go to Network & internet > Proxy.
Make sure Automatically detect settings is enabled.
If you use a manual proxy, verify it is set up correctly or disable it temporarily to test Avast connectivity.

Allowing Avast through the firewall and ensuring correct proxy settings help Avast communicate with its servers without interruptions.

Step 3: Update Avast Manually

Sometimes automatic updates fail, causing the online content error. Manually updating Avast may solve this.

To update Avast manually:

Open Avast Antivirus by double-clicking its icon in the system tray or Start menu.
Go to Menu (three horizontal lines) > Settings.
Navigate to Update.
Click Check for updates under both Virus definitions and Program.
If updates are available, Avast will download and install them.
After updating, restart your computer.

Manual updates refresh Avast’s components and virus database, which may resolve the content unavailability issue.

Step 4: Repair Avast Installation

If the problem persists, Avast program files might be corrupted. Repairing Avast can fix damaged files without reinstalling.

To repair Avast:

Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Click Apps > Installed apps.
Find Avast Antivirus in the list and click the three dots next to it.
Select Modify.
In the Avast setup window, click Repair.
Follow the on-screen instructions and wait for the process to finish.
Restart your PC after repair.

Repairing fixes missing or corrupted files that could block Avast’s online content access.

Step 5: Temporarily Disable Other Security Software

Running multiple antivirus or firewall programs simultaneously can cause conflicts. This may block Avast’s internet access.

How to disable other security software:

Locate the other antivirus or firewall program icon in the system tray (bottom-right corner).
Right-click the icon and look for options like Disable, Pause protection, or Exit.
Disable it temporarily and check if Avast’s online content now loads.

If disabling solves the issue, consider uninstalling the conflicting software or adjusting its settings to allow Avast.

Alternative Method: Use Avast Cleanup Tool

If the above steps don’t help, you can use Avast’s Cleanup Tool to fix deeper software problems.

How to use Avast Cleanup:

Download Avast Cleanup from the official Avast website.
Install and launch the tool.
Run a cleanup scan to fix system issues and optimize Avast performance.
Restart your PC after completion.

This advanced option removes junk files and registry errors that might interfere with Avast.

FAQs

Why does Avast show “Online Content Is Unavailable” error?

This error usually means Avast cannot access its update servers, often due to internet connectivity issues, firewall blocking, proxy misconfiguration, or corrupted program files.

Can I continue using Avast without online content?

While Avast may still provide some protection, it won’t receive virus definition updates, reducing its effectiveness against new threats.

Is it safe to disable Avast temporarily to fix the issue?

Disabling Avast briefly for troubleshooting is safe, but avoid surfing the internet or downloading files while protection is off.

How often should I update Avast?

Avast updates virus definitions automatically several times a day. Manual checks can be done weekly for assurance.

Will reinstalling Avast fix the error?

Reinstalling Avast often fixes persistent errors but should be a last resort after trying repairs and updates.

When Nothing Works

If you’ve followed all the above steps and still see the “Online Content Is Unavailable” error, consider these final options:

Contact Avast Support: Visit Avast official support for personalized help.
Uninstall and reinstall Avast: Completely remove Avast using the Avast Uninstall Utility and then reinstall the latest version.
Check for system malware: Use Windows Defender or a trusted malware removal tool to scan your PC for infections that may block Avast.
Perform a system restore: If the problem started recently, restoring Windows to an earlier date may fix corrupted settings.

Conclusion

Fixing the “Avast Online Content Is Unavailable” error on Windows 11 involves checking your internet connection, firewall settings, and Avast’s update process. Starting with simple steps like restarting your PC and Avast service can often resolve the issue quickly.

If basic fixes don’t help, repairing Avast, checking for software conflicts, and manual updates are effective next steps. Advanced tools like Avast Cleanup provide deeper troubleshooting options.

Remember, keeping Avast updated is crucial for your PC’s security. If all else fails, Avast support and reinstalling the software are reliable last resorts. Following these step-by-step solutions will help restore Avast’s full functionality and keep your Windows 11 PC protected.