Problem With Opera Browser

[taichiperson]

I already have a thread on the internet section, but it has been suggested that I post in this section as it has the resident denizens stumped. Basically, when I try to start Opera, my laptop freezes. I've also tried uninstalling, but that also freezes my system. I have Windows 7 and AVG Internet Security. To save me typing everything out again, here's the thread

http://www.theanswerbank.co.uk/Technology/Internet/Question1298179.html#answer-8560533

[bibblebub]

Have you tried uninstalling without being connected to the internet? Possibly worth a try.

[taichiperson]

I'll give it a shot later on, thanks for the suggestion bibblebub.

It's been suggested that it may be a virus or malware, but I've switched to Malwarebytes and done their quick scan - a few things came up, none of them associated with Opera. I'm currently trying a full scan.

And yes, I've tried turning it off and on again!!!!

[bibblebub]

My reason for suggesting turning off the internet when uninstalling is that Opera possibly wants feedback for the reason why and so would try connecting to their own site, giving the same freeze problem as using it normally. But it's been a long time since I last uninstalled it and can't remember if it does ask for feedback.

[taichiperson]

It's an interesting take, thanks Bibblebub. I'm wondering if trying to install it without installing might work - it's an old version. I presumed it updated itself, as Firefox and Chrome do, but apparently not. In any case, when I'm done surfing I'll give your idea a go.

[Alex_Higham]

Hi bibblebub...I suggested that a further posting in this section might help. In the meantime Methyl has responded to taichiperson's other thread and has in effect implied that Internet Explorer should be made the Default Browser prior to any attempt at removal of Opera.

Both you and Methyl are giving better advice than I have.

[bibblebub]

This is the sort of problem for which it would be handy to have a spare machine just to experiment. Unfortunately I only have this PC.

[SlackAlice]

Have you tried starting your pc into 'safe mode' and tried uninstalling from there?

'Safe mode' will only load the most basic of drivers, just about enough to get Windows working. I suspect that Opera has something that loads at normal startup and this may be preventing an uninstall.

[Alex_Higham]

A few years ago I had Opera as a 'spare' Browser and for some reason got shot of it, without any difficulty, and am now left with Internet Explorer; Google Chrome; Safari; and my favourite Firefox.

[taichiperson]

Thanks all for your suggestions - I'm currently running a full malware scan, am tired and shall try your methods in the morning. I'll keep you updated.

[taichiperson]

The full malware scan came up with one more threat, not involving Opera. I've been too busy to do anything else, but shall try the suggestions here when I get the time. Thanks all.