VALORANT · troubleshooting
VALORANT Vanguard errors: the safe troubleshooting order
Start with Riot’s official error guidance instead of random driver or registry downloads.
Diagnostic order
- Capture the error code and operating system.
- Follow the matching Riot Support article.
- Escalate with logs if the official steps fail.
What a Vanguard error means
VAN codes are not one generic “reinstall everything” problem. Riot’s support catalogue separates connection errors, service state, Vanguard restrictions and Windows security requirements such as Secure Boot, TPM or virtualization-based security. Read the exact code and the current Riot article for that code before changing BIOS or security settings.
Recommended order on PC
Restart once, confirm Riot Client and VALORANT are updated, then read the code-specific checklist. If the article asks for Secure Boot, TPM, virtualization or a Windows security setting, verify your motherboard documentation and Windows state first. Do not disable security features just because a forum post suggests it; use Riot’s supported configuration or contact support.
When the fix is not local
Check Riot’s service notices and whether the error appears after a patch. Capture the code, Windows version, Vanguard status and the time it occurred. Submit logs through Riot’s official support flow, removing personal information from screenshots. Never download a replacement Vanguard installer from a third-party mirror.