Blockers flash, but not always.

kwikbreaks

The advice in Espresso's link only looks complex because it shows the step by step instructions for several operating systems and versions of Avast.

I did only skim it but in simple terms it appears to be use the Avast uninstaller by going through the normal route for your opsys to uninstall a program. Instead of uninstalling though select the "change" option and leave out the stuff you don't want (essentially all the "tools").

Forgot to mention - I use Avast free + AdBlock Plus + Ghostery and don't see the issues you've mentioned. I did originally install Avast using default settings but got fed up with the browser cleanup thing. I didn't read any instructions at the time and just uninstalled avast and reinstalled it without the extras.

RumRat

islandman wrote: »

You may well have a point about trying to open too soon. I turn mine on then have breakfast then it's ok, but if I skip breakfast and sit waiting for it, I'm tempted to start before it's completely ready. It's a pity there isn't some way of knowing.

and this bit As it doesn't happen now, I've stopped experimenting. is the way I see it, but if the problem returns, I will have two choices, either re-install chrome or follow the advice/link from expresso.

I wasn't quite advocating as long as breakfast takes...:D Just long enough for Avast (if that's the culprit) to finish scanning everything that's opening.
To be honest, I'm never in that much of a hurry to open the browser and it's only once in a while when I shut down. the rest of the time it's sleeping or hibernating and the problem is, obviously, non existent..

System

Well the problem that existed for me, seems to have been resolved. Were issues to manifest them self at a later date, then I will be back to follow through the advice given.