Unable to download- getting error message - Virus Scan Failed

[JuliaM70]

I haven't been able to download anything since I bought this computer. Any time I click on download, it starts downloading and then, it says Virus Scan Failed. I have googled it and tried shutting off my security and other things. But, nothing is working. Does anyone know how to fix this please? Also, would upgrading to Windows 11 fix this or is it a computer problem? Thank you for your help! 

[Bill_To]

Greetings @JuliaM70 

Welcome to the HP Forum.

I've never encountered the problem you are having. So this is new ground for me.

When did you purchase the PC?

An Anti- Virus (A-V) flag during a download should not be a hardware problem. Good A-V software will generally prevent downloading malware and running malware.

It sounds like an Anti-Virus configuration error.

What version of Windows are you using? Windows S versions limit software installation to only Apps from the Microsoft Store.

What Internet browser are you using?

What Anti-Virus software are you using?

Not being able to download and install legitimate software from the Internet would be a big issue.

Have you ever tried reinstalling Windows after backing up data?

Regards

[Bill_To]

Greetings @JuliaM70 

You could also create a new Windows user account.

Then check to see if you can download software using the new Windows account.

Or check this video showing how to disable virus scans when downloading software. Disabling virus scans would not be recommended since it is prudent to scan file downloads for malware.

Regards

[JuliaM70]

Thank you so very much for your quick response Bill_To! I apologize for taking so long to reply back to you and appreciate your suggestions. I have Windows 10 Home and I believe I bought the laptop in 2019. I did have McAfee but, it expired and I didn't renew it. So, I currently only have Windows Security. I will try your suggestions in the next few days. Have a great day!

[Bill_To]

Greetings @JuliaM70 

My pleasure.

Try removing McAfee if you did not do this.

Download and run the McAfee MCPR tool available at this site.

Check all info at the McAfee site for removal details. McAfee could be causing this problem if you did not uninstall the software.

Regards