5 Fixes For Avast Setup is Already Running. Please Try To Start The Setup Later Error

Avast won't uninstall instead shows the setup is already running. Here is the solution for Windows 11/10 users.

M. Mateen
Nov 15, 2023

Are you encountering the pesky “Avast Setup is already running. Please try to start the setup later” error while attempting to uninstall or reinstall Avast on your Windows 10/11 PC? Fret not, as we’ve got the solution to this frustrating issue.

The error typically stems from a background process called instup.exe, responsible for updating Avast’s virus definitions.

This article will guide you through the steps to overcome the obstacle and successfully uninstall or reinstall Avast without a hitch.

What Causes Avast Setup is Already Running Error?

Here are some common causes of this error:

The instup.exe file is responsible for updating Avast’s virus definitions in the background. If this process is actively running, it can interfere with the uninstallation process, leading to an error.
Avast may impose restrictions on terminating its processes through the Task Manager to prevent potential threats from disabling the antivirus protection. This limitation can result in the “Access is denied” error when attempting to end the instup.exe task.
If a previous installation or uninstallation of Avast was not completed successfully, it could leave behind residual files or processes that interfere with subsequent attempts to modify the software.
Interactions with other security software or third-party applications on your system could create conflicts, causing the Avast setup process to run into errors during uninstallation.
Problems within the Windows registry related to Avast entries can also contribute to difficulties in uninstalling or reinstalling the antivirus program.

How To Fix Avast Setup is Already Running. Please Try To Start The Setup Later.

Try the following methods that work like a charm.

1. Turn off the Avast Self-Defense Module

To troubleshoot the “Avast setup is already running” error, you can try turning off the Avast Self-Defense module. Follow these steps:

Open the Avast Antivirus user interface.
Click on “Menu” and navigate to “Settings.”
In the Settings menu, click on “Troubleshooting.”
Remove the checkmark for “Enable Avast Self-Defence Module.”
Click “OK” to confirm the changes.

For added assurance, restart your PC after completing these steps.

2. Remove Avast Utility Via Dedicated Uninstaller

To fix Avast setup is already running problem you need to efficiently uninstall Avast. Consider using the dedicated Avast uninstaller utility.

Follow these straightforward steps:

Open your web browser and visit the official Avast website:
Locate and download the “avastclear.exe” file to your Windows 11/10 PC.
Run the setup file and select “Avastclear.”
Click “Yes,” and your system will restart, entering “Safe Mode.”
Choose the appropriate version of the antivirus, and then select “Uninstall.”
After completing the uninstallation, restart your PC.

3. Stop the Instup.exe Process in Task Manager

To resolve this issue, follow these steps:

Right-click on the Taskbar and open Task Manager.
In Task Manager, find the “instup.exe” process and right-click on it.
Select “End Task” After doing this, a window will appear, asking if you want to update the antivirus.

If this method doesn’t work for you, don’t worry; we have another solution to try.

4. Run the CHKDSK Command

If the previous solutions didn’t work, it’s a good idea to check if there are any corrupted files on your system. Here’s how to do it:

Press the “Windows + R” keys to open the Run dialog.
In the dialog box, type “cmd” and then press Enter.
Once the Command Prompt window appears, type the command “c: cd\chkdsk testing line” and hit Enter.

Now, if your system doesn’t have any corrupted files, you’ll see a message that says, “Windows has scanned the file and found no problems.” But if it does find issues, you’ll need to take steps to fix them.