How To Install Vanguard Anti Cheat

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Hello there, future competitive gamer! Are you ready to dive into the world of intense, strategic gameplay where fair play is paramount? If you're looking to install Riot Vanguard, the powerful anti-cheat system developed by Riot Games for titles like VALORANT and League of Legends, you've come to the right place. This lengthy, step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process, ensuring a smooth installation and helping you troubleshoot common issues.

Riot Vanguard isn't just another program; it's a crucial component that maintains the integrity of Riot's games by preventing cheating. It runs at a deep system level (kernel mode) to detect and block unauthorized software, ensuring a level playing field for everyone. This guide will help you get it set up and running, so let's get started!

Getting Started: Understanding Riot Vanguard

Before we jump into the installation, let's briefly understand what Riot Vanguard is and why it's necessary. Riot Vanguard is Riot Games' custom anti-cheat software. It consists of two main parts:

A client that runs while the game is active.
A kernel-mode driver that operates at a very low level of your operating system.

This deep integration allows Vanguard to effectively detect and prevent various forms of cheating. While this might sound intimidating, Riot Games has designed it with security and privacy in mind, working with legal and compliance teams to ensure it adheres to data privacy laws.

Important Note: Riot Vanguard is automatically installed when you install a compatible Riot game (like VALORANT or League of Legends). There isn't a separate, standalone Vanguard installer. The steps below will focus on ensuring a clean game installation and addressing common issues that might prevent Vanguard from working correctly.

Step 1: Prepare Your System – The Foundation for a Smooth Installation

Before you even think about hitting that download button, let's make sure your system is ready. This is perhaps the most critical step, as many installation issues stem from an unprepared environment.

Sub-heading 1.1: Check Your System Requirements

First things first, let's ensure your PC meets the minimum requirements for the game you're installing (and thus, for Vanguard). While Vanguard itself is lightweight, the games it protects have their own demands. For example, for VALORANT, you'll generally need:

Operating System: Windows 10/11 (64-bit, latest update is always recommended). Vanguard has increasingly stringent requirements for Windows versions and security features like TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, especially for Windows 11.
Processor: Intel Core i3-4340 or equivalent AMD processor.
Memory (RAM): 8 GB.
Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 960 or AMD Radeon RX 470 (DirectX 12.0 compatible).
Storage: Sufficient free disk space (e.g., 36 GB for Call of Duty: Vanguard, but check for your specific Riot game).
Network: Broadband Internet connection.

Always refer to the specific game's official website for the most up-to-date system requirements.

Sub-heading 1.2: Update Your Windows Operating System

Vanguard often requires your Windows installation to be up-to-date. Older versions of Windows might not be supported or may lack necessary security features.

Open Settings: Press the Windows key + I to open the Settings app.
Navigate to Update & Security (Windows 10) or Windows Update (Windows 11):
- Windows 10: Click on "Update & Security."
- Windows 11: Click on "Windows Update" in the left-hand menu.
Check for Updates: Click the "Check for updates" button.
Install Updates: Allow Windows to download and install any pending updates. This might take some time and require multiple restarts. Do not skip restarting your PC if prompted!

Sub-heading 1.3: Enable Essential Security Features (Windows 11 & Newer Systems)

For optimal Vanguard functionality and to avoid specific error codes (like VAN9001 or VAN9005), you might need to enable TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot in your BIOS/UEFI settings. This is increasingly common, especially for Windows 11 users.

Accessing BIOS/UEFI: Restart your computer and repeatedly press the designated key (commonly Del, F2, F10, or F12) to enter your BIOS/UEFI settings during startup. The key varies by motherboard manufacturer.
Enabling TPM 2.0:
1. Once in BIOS/UEFI, navigate to sections like "Security," "Boot," or "Advanced."
2. Look for options related to "Trusted Platform Module" (TPM) or "Intel Platform Trust Technology" (PTT) for Intel CPUs, or "AMD fTPM" for AMD CPUs.
3. Enable this option.
Enabling Secure Boot:
1. In BIOS/UEFI, look for "Secure Boot" under "Boot" or "Security" settings.
2. You might first need to set "CSM" (Compatibility Support Module) to Off if it's enabled, as CSM can conflict with Secure Boot.
3. Then, enable "Secure Boot." You may need to change the "Secure Boot Mode" from "Standard" to "Custom" and then back to "Standard" to activate it.
Save and Exit: After making changes, ensure you save your changes (often F10) and exit the BIOS/UEFI. Your system will restart.

Warning: Modifying BIOS/UEFI settings incorrectly can cause boot issues. If you're unsure, consult your motherboard manual or a trusted IT professional.

Sub-heading 1.4: Temporarily Disable Antivirus/Firewall (Optional, for Troubleshooting)

While not always necessary, sometimes your existing antivirus or firewall software can interfere with Vanguard's installation or operation. If you encounter issues later, consider temporarily disabling them during the installation process. Remember to re-enable them immediately after installation is complete!

Step 2: Installing the Riot Game (and Vanguard Automatically!)

As mentioned, Vanguard is bundled with Riot's games. So, the main installation process involves downloading and installing the game itself.

Sub-heading 2.1: Download the Riot Client and Your Chosen Game

Go to the Official Website: Navigate to the official website of the Riot game you want to play (e.g., playvalorant.com for VALORANT, leagueoflegends.com for League of Legends).
Download the Game Client: Look for the "Play Free" or "Download" button to get the game's installer. This installer will typically be for the Riot Client, which then handles the game download.
Run the Installer: Once the download is complete, locate the downloaded file (usually in your "Downloads" folder) and double-click it to run the installer.
Follow On-Screen Prompts: The installer will guide you through the process of installing the Riot Client. Choose your preferred installation directory.

Sub-heading 2.2: Let the Game (and Vanguard) Install

Once the Riot Client is installed and launched, it will begin downloading the game files.

During this process, Riot Vanguard will also be downloaded and installed automatically in the background. You typically won't see a separate progress bar specifically for Vanguard.
Be Patient: Game downloads can be large, so ensure you have a stable internet connection and sufficient time.

Sub-heading 2.3: The Essential Reboot

After the game installation is complete and the Riot Client tells you it's ready, there's one crucial step that many users forget or overlook:

RESTART YOUR COMPUTER. Riot Vanguard needs a system reboot to properly initialize and integrate itself at the kernel level. Without this reboot, Vanguard will not run correctly, and you won't be able to launch your game. You'll likely see an error message (e.g., VAN 57, "Vanguard Not Running") if you try to launch before restarting.

Step 3: Verify Installation and Launch Your Game

Once your computer has restarted, Vanguard should be active.

Sub-heading 3.1: Check the System Tray

Look in your system tray (the area near your clock on the taskbar, sometimes hidden behind an upward arrow icon). You should see the Riot Vanguard icon (a shield-like icon). This indicates that Vanguard is running.
You can right-click on this icon for options, such as disabling Vanguard (which will prevent you from playing Riot games until you re-enable it and restart) or uninstalling it.

Sub-heading 3.2: Launch Your Riot Game

Now, launch the Riot game you installed (e.g., VALORANT or League of Legends) from your desktop shortcut or the Riot Client. If everything went smoothly, the game should launch without any Vanguard-related errors, and you'll be able to log in and play!

Step 4: Troubleshooting Common Vanguard Installation Issues

Sometimes, things don't go as planned. Here are some common issues and their solutions.

Sub-heading 4.1: "Vanguard Not Initialized" or "Vanguard Not Running" Errors (VAN 57, VAN 44, etc.)

Solution: The most common fix is a simple restart of your computer. As mentioned, Vanguard needs a reboot to fully integrate. If you've already restarted, try another one.
Advanced Solution: If restarting doesn't work, Vanguard might not be starting automatically.
1. Press Windows Key + R, type services.msc, and press Enter.
2. Find the VGC service.
3. Right-click on VGC and select "Properties."
4. In the "General" tab, set the "Startup type" to Automatic.
5. Click "Apply" and then "OK."
6. If the "Service status" is "Stopped," click the "Start" button.
7. Restart your computer again.

Sub-heading 4.2: Connection Errors (VAN 0, VAN 1, VAN 6, VAN 68, VAN 84, etc.)

These often indicate a problem with Vanguard communicating with Riot's servers or your system.

Solution:
1. Restart your PC and the Riot Client.
2. Check your internet connection. Ensure it's stable.
3. Temporarily disable your antivirus/firewall. If the game launches, re-enable them and add exceptions for Riot Client and game executables.
4. Reinstall Riot Vanguard. (See Step 4.4 for how to do this easily).

Sub-heading 4.3: "This Build of Vanguard is Out of Compliance" or TPM/Secure Boot Errors (VAN9001, VAN9005, VAN9006)

These errors usually point to system security settings or an outdated Windows version.

Solution:
1. Ensure Windows is fully updated (refer to Step 1.2).
2. Enable TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot in your BIOS/UEFI settings (refer to Step 1.3).
3. Address Virtualization-based security (VBS) settings. Sometimes VBS (Memory Integrity/Core Isolation) in Windows Security can conflict. You might need to adjust these or ensure they're correctly configured with Vanguard.
  - Go to Windows Security -> Device Security -> Core isolation -> Memory integrity. Ensure it's enabled or correctly configured.

Sub-heading 4.4: Corrupted Installation or Persistent Issues – Reinstalling Vanguard

If all else fails, a clean reinstallation of Vanguard (which often means reinstalling the game) can resolve many problems.

Uninstall Riot Vanguard:
- Press Windows Key + R, type appwiz.cpl, and press Enter to open "Programs and Features."
- Find "Riot Vanguard" in the list.
- Right-click on it and select "Uninstall."
- Confirm the uninstallation.
- Restart your computer after uninstalling.
Uninstall the Riot Game (Optional but Recommended for a Clean Slate):
- In "Programs and Features," find your Riot game (e.g., "VALORANT").
- Right-click and select "Uninstall."
- Confirm.
Reinstall the Riot Game: Go back to the official game website and download/install the game again as described in Step 2. This will automatically reinstall a fresh copy of Riot Vanguard.
Restart Your PC after the game installation is complete.

Sub-heading 4.5: Driver Signature Enforcement Issues (Older Windows Versions)

Rarely, on older Windows systems, driver signature enforcement can prevent Vanguard's kernel driver from loading.

Solution: You might need to temporarily disable driver signature enforcement. This is not recommended for general use due to security risks and should only be done for troubleshooting if specifically instructed by Riot Support.

Final Thoughts

Installing Riot Vanguard is generally a straightforward process that happens automatically with your Riot game installation. However, because it operates at a low system level, it can sometimes be sensitive to system configurations and other software. By following this step-by-step guide, ensuring your Windows is up-to-date, and configuring essential security features, you'll significantly increase your chances of a smooth, error-free installation.

If you encounter persistent issues, the absolute best course of action is to contact Riot Games Support directly. They have specialized tools and knowledge to diagnose and resolve complex Vanguard problems unique to your system. Provide them with detailed information about the error code and steps you've already taken.

Good luck, and happy gaming!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to check if Riot Vanguard is running?

You can check for the Riot Vanguard icon (a shield-like icon) in your system tray, usually near the clock on your taskbar. If you see it, Vanguard is running.

How to uninstall Riot Vanguard?

Go to Control Panel > Programs and Features (or Settings > Apps > Apps & features on Windows 10/11), find "Riot Vanguard" in the list, right-click it, and select "Uninstall." Remember to restart your PC afterward.

How to re-enable Riot Vanguard after disabling it?

If you disabled Vanguard from its system tray icon, you'll need to restart your computer. Vanguard is an on-boot application and will reactivate upon reboot.

How to fix "Vanguard Not Initialized" (VAN 57) error?

The most common fix is to restart your computer. If that doesn't work, ensure the VGC service is set to "Automatic" in services.msc and started, then restart your PC again.

How to enable TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot for Vanguard?

You need to enter your computer's BIOS/UEFI settings (usually by pressing Del, F2, F10, or F12 during startup) and find the options to enable TPM 2.0 (or Intel PTT/AMD fTPM) and Secure Boot. Remember to save and exit.

How to update Windows for Vanguard compatibility?

Go to Settings > Update & Security (Windows 10) or Windows Update (Windows 11) and click "Check for updates." Install all pending updates and restart your computer as prompted.

How to resolve Vanguard connection errors (VAN 0, VAN 6, etc.)?

Restart your PC and the Riot Client. Check your internet connection. If the issue persists, temporarily disable your antivirus/firewall or try a clean reinstallation of the game and Vanguard.

How to fix "This Build of Vanguard is Out of Compliance" error?

Ensure your Windows is fully updated and that TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot are enabled in your BIOS/UEFI settings. Also, check your Virtualization-based security (VBS) settings in Windows Security.

How to contact Riot Games Support for Vanguard issues?

Visit the official Riot Games Support website for the specific game (e.g., support-valorant.riotgames.com) and look for options to "Submit a Ticket." Provide detailed information about your issue and any error codes.

How to ensure a smooth Vanguard installation?

The best way is to ensure your Windows operating system is fully updated, and essential security features like TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot are enabled in your BIOS/UEFI before attempting to install any Riot game. Always restart your PC after the game installation is complete.

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