So, you're getting that dreaded Vanguard error, "This version of Vanguard requires Secure Boot to be enabled." Don't worry, you're not alone! This is a very common issue for gamers, especially with Gigabyte motherboards. The good news is that enabling Secure Boot is a straightforward process. In this lengthy and detailed guide, we'll walk you through every step, so you can get back to clutching those rounds in Valorant.
Let's get started, shall we?
Before we dive into the BIOS, it's essential to understand what Secure Boot and TPM are and why Vanguard needs them. Secure Boot is a security standard that ensures your PC only loads trusted, digitally signed software during the boot process, preventing malicious software from injecting itself. TPM (Trusted Platform Module) 2.0 is a hardware-based security module that provides a secure environment for cryptographic keys.
Vanguard, Riot Games' anti-cheat software, requires these features to be enabled to ensure that your gaming environment is secure and free from cheats that might try to load before the operating system. It's all about maintaining a level playing field for everyone.
Step 1: Check Your Current Status - Are you in the clear?
First things first, let's confirm if Secure Boot is actually disabled on your system. This will help you know for sure if you need to proceed with the next steps.
Engage with your keyboard! Press the Windows key + R to open the Run dialog box.
Type
msinfo32and press Enter.In the System Information window that pops up, look for the following two entries on the right-hand panel:
"BIOS Mode": This should say UEFI. If it says "Legacy," you'll need to convert your drive to GPT, which is a more advanced step we'll touch on later. Secure Boot requires UEFI mode to function.
"Secure Boot State": This is the key. If it says "On," you're good to go and the problem might be something else. If it says "Off" or "Unsupported," you're in the right place, and we need to enable it.
Step 2: Entering the BIOS - The Gateway to Your Motherboard's Core
This is where the magic happens. We need to access your motherboard's BIOS/UEFI settings to make the necessary changes.
Restart your PC. As your computer is booting up, you need to be ready.
Rapidly and repeatedly press the BIOS key. For most Gigabyte motherboards, this is the Delete (Del) key. Other common keys include F2, F10, or F12. You'll see a message on your screen that says something like "Press DEL to enter BIOS setup."
If you miss it, don't worry! Just restart and try again. The key is to start pressing the key as soon as you see the Gigabyte logo.
Once you're in the BIOS, you'll likely be in "Easy Mode." To get to the more detailed settings, press F2 to switch to "Advanced Mode." This is where you'll find the options we need.
Step 3: Disabling CSM Support - Making Way for Secure Boot
Secure Boot and CSM (Compatibility Support Module) are two sides of a coin that can't coexist. CSM is a legacy feature that allows your motherboard to boot from older, non-UEFI devices. To enable Secure Boot, you must disable CSM.
Navigate to the "BIOS" or "Boot" tab in the top menu of the Advanced Mode interface.
Look for the option called "CSM Support" or "CSM".
Change the setting from Enabled to Disabled.
After disabling CSM, you will likely need to save and exit the BIOS, and then re-enter it for the Secure Boot option to appear. This is a crucial step that many users miss!
Step 4: Enabling Secure Boot and TPM - The Core of the Process
Now that CSM is disabled, the Secure Boot option should be visible. We'll also enable the fTPM, which is the firmware-based TPM built into your CPU.
Sub-heading: Secure Boot Activation
After re-entering the BIOS, go back to the "BIOS" or "Boot" tab.
You should now see a "Secure Boot" option.
Go into this menu.
Change the "Secure Boot" setting from Disabled to Enabled.
You may also see an option for "Secure Boot Mode." Make sure it is set to "Standard" rather than "Custom." If it's already on "Custom," you might need to switch it to "Standard" and reset to factory default keys when prompted.
If you see an option to "Restore Factory Keys" or a similar setting, it's generally safe to do so. This will ensure your system uses the standard Secure Boot keys.
Sub-heading: Enabling fTPM (Firmware TPM)
Now, let's enable the TPM. The location of this setting varies depending on your CPU (AMD or Intel).
For AMD CPUs:
Navigate to the "Peripherals" or "Settings" tab.
Look for "AMD CPU fTPM" or "AMD fTPM switch".
Set it to Enabled.
For Intel CPUs:
Look for "Intel Platform Trust Technology (PTT)" or "Trusted Computing".
Set it to Enabled.
Note: On some older motherboards, you might need to enable "Security Device Support" first under a "Trusted Computing" or "Security" menu.
Step 5: Saving and Exiting - The Final Stretch
You're almost there! Now, you just need to save your changes and reboot your system.
Navigate to the "Save & Exit" tab at the top of the BIOS.
Select "Save & Exit Setup" or press F10 (a common shortcut).
A confirmation box will appear, asking if you want to save the changes and exit.
Select "Yes" and press Enter. Your computer will restart.
Step 6: Verifying the Change in Windows - The Moment of Truth
After your PC reboots, let's confirm that everything is working as it should.
Once again, press the Windows key + R and type
msinfo32.Check the "Secure Boot State" again. It should now say "On".
You can also check the TPM status by pressing Windows key + R and typing
tpm.msc. The status should say "The TPM is ready for use."
If both of these are showing as enabled, congratulations! You have successfully enabled Secure Boot and fTPM on your Gigabyte motherboard. You should now be able to launch Valorant without any issues.
FAQ: How to...
Here are 10 related frequently asked questions with quick answers to help you troubleshoot further.
How to check if my OS drive is GPT or MBR? Press Windows key + X and select "Disk Management." Right-click on your OS disk, go to Properties > Volumes, and look for "Partition style." It should say "GUID Partition Table (GPT)." If it says "Master Boot Record (MBR)," you will need to convert it before Secure Boot can be enabled.
How to convert my MBR drive to GPT?
This is a more advanced procedure. You can use the mbr2gpt.exe tool in Windows PE or a third-party partition manager. Be sure to back up your data first, as this process carries a risk of data loss if done incorrectly.
How to find the correct BIOS key for my Gigabyte motherboard? The most common key is Del, but if that doesn't work, check your motherboard's manual or the product page on the Gigabyte website.
How to update my Gigabyte motherboard's BIOS? Visit the Gigabyte support page for your specific motherboard model, download the latest BIOS version, and follow the manufacturer's instructions for a BIOS update, which often involves using a USB drive and the Q-Flash utility in the BIOS.
How to enable PTT on an Intel-based Gigabyte motherboard? In the BIOS, look under the "Peripherals," "Settings," or "Security" tab for "Intel Platform Trust Technology (PTT)" and set it to Enabled.
How to reset Secure Boot keys on a Gigabyte motherboard? In the Secure Boot menu within the BIOS, there is typically an option to "Reset to Factory Default" or "Restore Factory Keys." Selecting this will reset the keys to the manufacturer's default.
How to fix the "Secure Boot is enabled but not active" error? This often happens when you have Secure Boot enabled in the BIOS but the Secure Boot Mode is set to "Custom." Try changing it to "Standard" and resetting the keys as mentioned above.
How to disable Fast Boot in the BIOS? In the "BIOS" or "Boot" tab, you'll find the "Fast Boot" or "Ultra Fast Boot" option. Set it to Disabled. This can sometimes interfere with entering the BIOS.
How to fix Valorant error VAN9001 or VAN9003? These errors are directly related to the Secure Boot and TPM requirements. Following the steps in this guide to enable both Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 will resolve these specific error codes.
How to contact Gigabyte support for more help? If you're still facing issues, you can visit the Gigabyte support website and use their contact form or forums to get assistance from their technical support team.