Using Desktop-based accounting software in conjunction with antivirus programs can be challenging. This is primarily due to how these programs monitor, block, or quarantine files and processes that they perceive as suspicious. Below is a detailed explanation of how this interference occurs, why it happens, and what you can do to prevent or resolve these issues when using AccountEdge.

How Antivirus Software Affects AccountEdge

Blocking Executable Files (.exe or .app)

Antivirus software may mistakenly flag the AccountEdge executable as suspicious, especially if it lacks a digital signature or is updated infrequently. This can lead to blocked launches or quarantined files. AccountEdge and its updates are signed and notarized by Microsoft and Apple, however there are still a few anti-virus programs that will flag components of the software as a virus, even if it is not.

Disrupting Network Communication

AccountEdge relies on network connectivity for updates, payroll integration, and multi-user access. Antivirus programs with built-in firewalls (e.g. Norton, McAfee, Avg, Avast) may block these connections, causing disruptions.

Preventing Updates

During updates, AccountEdge may attempt to download new files or write to protected directories. Antivirus software may interpret this behavior as malicious and do the following:

• Quarantine the update files
• Block scripts or installers
• Silently delay or halt the update process.

False Positives

Some antivirus programs may incorrectly classify AccountEdge components as malware, particularly if the software uses older libraries or exhibits uncommon behavior.

File Access Conflicts

Real-time scanning can lock essential files, such as company files, .dll/.plist components, or temporary logs, while AccountEdge is trying to access them. This can result in the following

• File Corruption
• Application crashes or failed startups
• Inability to open or save your company file

Common reasons AccountEdge may not work or update properly

• Overly-aggressive antivirus analysis may falsely flag AccountEdge files
• Quarantined essential components (e.g. .dll, .exe, .plist)
• Blocked internet access or update servers
• Real-time scanning interfering with file operations
• Incompatibility between outdated antivirus software and AccountEdge
• Strict firewall settings within the antivirus program

Workarounds and Solutions

Add AccountEdge to Antivirus Exclusions

• Add the AccountEdge installation folder to your antivirus exclusion list
• If available, use the whitelist feature to allow AccountEdge and its components
• Exclude company file directories and update executable files from aggressive scanning, including the AccountEdge support folder located in Documents > AccountEdge Pro/AccountEdge Ne

Temporarily Disable Antivirus During Updates

• Disable antivirus protection temporarily when installing or updating AccountEdge
• Re-enable it afterwards and ensure AccountEdge is not flagged again.

Check Quarantine and Logs

• Review antivirus quarantine logs for any blocked AccountEdge files
• Restore files marked as ‘safe’ or 'false positives'.

Keep Software Updated

• Ensure that both AccountEdge and your antivirus software are up to date to minimize compatibility issues.

Run as Administrator (Windows)

• Right-click the AccountEdge shortcut and select ‘Run as Administrator’ to avoid permission-related issues during updates.

Configure Firewall Settings

• Allow access to AccountEdge's network components
• Whitelist domains used for updates
• Open necessary ports for multi-user functionality.

Use a Compatible Antivirus

• Some antivirus programs are overly-aggressive. Consider switching to a more compatible option, such as Windows Defender, with customized rules.

Reinstall AccountEdge after Disabling Antivirus

• If AccountEdge fails to open due to suspected corruption, disable the antivirus temporarily, reinstall the application, and then re-enable antivirus protection with proper exclusions in place.

Best Practices to Prevent Future Issues

• Always back up your company file before performing updates
• Regularly check for AccountEdge updates or patches addressing antivirus conflicts.

Contact AccountEdge technical support for known antivirus compatibility issues or recommended configurations.