You boot up Valorant, ready for an intense match, and bam – you’re slapped with the dreaded VAN-81 error code. It’s frustrating, confusing, and it halts your game before it even begins. But don’t worry – you’re not alone, and yes, it can be fixed.
Let’s break down what VAN-81 actually means, what causes it, and how you can get back in the game quickly.
🔍 What is the VAN-81 Error in Valorant?
The VAN-81 error is Riot’s way of saying, “Hey, something’s wrong with your connection to our game services.” It’s most commonly linked to Riot Vanguard, Valorant’s anti-cheat system. If Vanguard fails to launch properly or encounters a hiccup, you won’t be able to start the game – hence the error.
⚠️ Why Does the VAN-81 Error Happen?
Here are the most frequent culprits behind the VAN-81 error:
Riot Vanguard isn’t running correctly – If Vanguard fails to initialize, the game blocks your login.
Internet connection issues – Weak or unstable network links can break the handshake between your system and Riot’s servers.
Firewall interference – Sometimes, your system’s firewall gets a little too protective and blocks Valorant or Vanguard from running properly.
✅ What to Do Before You Fix It
Before diving into deep fixes, make sure your system is in the right shape to troubleshoot.
✔️ Check the Servers First
Sometimes the issue isn’t on your end. Visit Riot’s server status page to confirm if there are any outages.
✔️ Use a Stable Connection
Plug in via Ethernet if possible
Restart your router/modem
Contact your ISP if you’re seeing regular drops in connectivity
✔️ Check Your Firewall Settings
Open Windows Defender Firewall
Head to Allow an app through firewall
Make sure both Valorant and Riot Vanguard are on the list of allowed apps
✔️ Ensure Vanguard is Running
Open Task Manager → Services tab
Look for “vgc” (Riot Vanguard)
If it’s stopped, right-click → Start
If it doesn’t exist, reinstall Vanguard
🛠️ How to Fix VAN-81: Step-by-Step
1. Restart Everything (Seriously)
Close Valorant, Riot Client, and Vanguard via Task Manager
Restart your computer
Relaunch the game
Sometimes, that’s all it takes.
2. Allow Riot Through the Firewall
Even if you’ve done this before, double-check it:
Open Firewall settings
Add exceptions for
Valorant.exeandvgc.exe
3. Run as Administrator
Give Valorant and Vanguard the permission they need:
Right-click on each app’s shortcut → Properties
Go to Compatibility tab
Check Run this program as an administrator
Apply changes
4. Reinstall Vanguard
If Vanguard is corrupted, it needs a refresh:
Open Add or Remove Programs
Uninstall Riot Vanguard
Launch Valorant – it will auto-reinstall Vanguard
5. Fully Reinstall Valorant
Still stuck? It might be time for a clean slate:
Uninstall both Valorant and Vanguard
Re-download from the official Valorant website
Install with administrator privileges
🧠 Still Not Working? Time to Call in Reinforcements
If none of the above steps solve your problem, don’t panic. Reach out to Riot Games Support. Open a ticket, explain what you’ve tried, and let their tech wizards take it from there.
🧾 FAQ – Quick Answers to Common Questions
Q: What is VAN-81 in Valorant?
A: It’s a connection error, usually tied to Riot Vanguard failing to launch or authenticate.
Q: Can slow internet cause VAN-81?
A: Yes. An unstable or slow connection can block the game from communicating with Riot’s servers.
Q: How do I know if Vanguard is working?
A: Check Task Manager → Services → Look for “vgc.” If it’s missing or stopped, that’s your likely problem.
Q: What’s the fastest way to fix VAN-81?
A: Restart your PC, run the Riot Client as administrator, and make sure Vanguard is enabled.
Q: Is reinstalling always necessary?
A: Not always, but if all else fails, a clean reinstall of Valorant and Vanguard is often the fix.
With a little patience and the right steps, the VAN-81 error doesn’t stand a chance. Good luck, and see you back in the queue! 🎮
