Windows Defender is the Master

[cyberjoi]

Based on the complexity of your situation, it seems there could be multiple factors contributing to the issues. While a clean install of Windows may help, there are several steps you might want to consider before going down that route again:

1. Hardware Diagnostics:
   
   • Test your SSD using dedicated tools like CrystalDiskInfo or Samsung Magician to check for errors or failing sectors.
     
   • Run diagnostics for your RAM using tools like MemTest86, as one module has already failed.
     
   • Check motherboard and processor temperatures to rule out overheating issues using software like HWMonitor.
     
2. System File Integrity:
   
   • Run
     Code:

     sfc /scannow

     and
     Code:

     DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

     commands in Command Prompt to repair corrupted system files.
     
3. Windows Defender and Antivirus Conflicts:
   
   • Temporarily disable Defender's real-time protection in settings to regain control over Avast. If that works, verify the compatibility between Defender and Avast.
     
   • Boot into Windows Safe Mode using
     Code:

     Shift + Restart > Troubleshoot > Advanced options

     to troubleshoot further if Safe Mode becomes functional.
     
4. Virus Check:
   
   • Use a bootable antivirus disk (e.g., Kaspersky Rescue Disk) to scan your PC offline and rule out malware.
     
5. Event Log Review:
   
   • Identify recurring error codes in the Event Viewer (once accessible) to pinpoint the root cause.
     
6. Motherboard and SSD Suspicions:
   
   • If hardware diagnostics reveal no issues and viruses are ruled out, the motherboard could have failing components, or the SSD controller might be at fault.