Valorant Vanguard Anti-Cheat: Errors and Install
Verified November 7, 2026 · Status: live anti-cheat
Riot Vanguard is Valorant’s anti-cheat system — kernel-level driver that runs at Windows startup (even before Valorant launches) scanning for cheat software and system tampering — required to play Valorant, can cause boot issues with some drivers, and uninstalling Vanguard requires using the dedicated uninstaller to prevent Windows boot problems. Verified on 7 November 2026.
Source: Riot — Vanguard FAQ.
Symptom → cause → first action
| Problem | Likely cause | First action |
|---|---|---|
| Vanguard won’t start | Service failed; needs restart | Reboot PC; Vanguard runs at startup |
| Valorant won’t launch | Vanguard not running | Verify Vanguard service is Active |
| Vanguard false positive | Random software flagged | Submit ticket with specific error code |
| Need to uninstall Vanguard | Getting a new PC or unrelated issue | Use Riot Vanguard uninstaller (see below) |
| PC won’t boot after Vanguard | Rare conflict with specific driver | Boot into Safe Mode; disable Vanguard service |
| Vanguard asks for admin | Kernel-level driver requires it | Allow admin; needed for operation |
What Vanguard does
- Kernel-level driver: Runs at Windows boot before Valorant or other apps load.
- Scans for cheats: Compares running processes against known cheat signatures.
- Blocks debuggers: Prevents memory manipulation tools.
- System integrity: Monitors for unauthorized driver loads.
- Required for Valorant: Game won’t launch without Vanguard active.
- Trust level: Riot has stated Vanguard is a security investment; some privacy advocates critique kernel-level approach.
Verifying Vanguard is running
- Right-click Start → Device Manager (Windows).
- Services → look for “Riot Vanguard” or “vgc”.
- Status should show Running (Automatic).
- If Stopped: right-click → Start.
- If missing: reinstall Vanguard via Valorant settings or Riot client.
Common Vanguard error codes
| Error | Likely cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| VAN 1067 | Vanguard not initialized | Reboot PC; Vanguard runs on startup |
| VAN 128 | Temporary service failure | Log out of game; reboot |
| VAN 9001 / 9002 | Vanguard permissions issue | Reinstall as administrator |
| VAN 152 | Secure Boot disabled on newer systems | Enable Secure Boot in BIOS |
| VAN 158 | Unsupported CPU feature missing | Check TPM 2.0 requirement in BIOS |
| Driver load error | Driver signature issue | Reinstall Vanguard via Riot client |
Uninstalling Vanguard safely
- Open Control Panel → Programs → Riot Vanguard.
- Click Uninstall → follow prompts.
- Reboot PC (required to complete removal).
- Alternative: Riot Client → Settings → Vanguard → Uninstall.
- Do NOT manually delete Vanguard files — can corrupt Windows boot.
- After removal, Valorant cannot launch until you reinstall Vanguard.
Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 requirements
- Valorant requires Secure Boot enabled on Windows 11.
- Windows 10 doesn’t strictly require it, but recommended.
- TPM 2.0 chip requirement on some platforms.
- Check in BIOS → Boot settings → Secure Boot ON.
- If unsupported: older hardware may not meet modern Vanguard requirements.
Privacy and security concerns
- Vanguard runs with kernel privileges — highest access level.
- Some users concerned about kernel-level monitoring.
- Riot has published their security position publicly.
- No known incidents of Vanguard being exploited.
- Alternative: don’t install if security-conscious — but you can’t play Valorant.
Comparing to other anti-cheat
| System | Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Riot Vanguard (Valorant) | Kernel-level, startup | Aggressive; required for Valorant |
| Easy Anti-Cheat (Fortnite, Apex) | Kernel-level, launched at game start | Aggressive |
| BattlEye (PUBG) | Kernel-level, launched at game start | Aggressive |
| Steam Game Overlay (CS) | Non-kernel | Less invasive |
| Battle.net (Overwatch) | Server-side + client | Different approach |
If Vanguard isn’t working
- Won’t start after Windows update? → Reinstall Vanguard via Riot Client.
- Boot issues after install? → Safe Mode → disable Vanguard service → reboot normally.
- BSOD during game? → check CPU driver compatibility.
- TPM error? → verify TPM 2.0 is enabled in BIOS.
- Secure Boot error? → enable in BIOS → reboot.
- Related: error codes, desync fix, uninstall Valorant, pro settings.
- Still stuck → Riot ticket with exact VAN error code.
FAQ
What is Riot Vanguard?
Valorant’s kernel-level anti-cheat system. Runs at Windows startup, scans processes for cheat software, blocks debuggers. Required to play Valorant; game won’t launch without it.
Is Vanguard safe to install?
Officially yes — Riot has published their security position. It runs with kernel privileges (highest access), which concerns some privacy-focused users. No known public exploits. Trade-off between security and anti-cheat strength.
Can I play Valorant without Vanguard?
No. Vanguard is mandatory. If you can’t or won’t install Vanguard, you can’t play Valorant.
How do I uninstall Vanguard?
Control Panel → Programs → Riot Vanguard → Uninstall. Or Riot Client → Settings → Vanguard → Uninstall. Reboot afterwards. Do NOT manually delete files — can break Windows boot.
Why does Vanguard need Secure Boot?
Secure Boot prevents unsigned drivers from loading at boot, blocking a common cheat vector. Valorant requires it on Windows 11 for stronger anti-cheat protection.
Why does my PC boot slower after Vanguard?
Slight — Vanguard loads at startup. Delay is usually under 2 seconds. If your boot is 30+ seconds longer, there may be a driver conflict; check Event Viewer for Vanguard-related errors.
What are VAN error codes?
Vanguard-specific errors (VAN 1067, VAN 128, VAN 152, etc.). Each code has a specific meaning. Riot’s support page documents fixes for most codes. Reboot is often the first step.
Related guides
