It appears you're looking to enable Secure Boot for Vanguard, primarily for games like Valorant, which use Vanguard as their anti-cheat system. This is a crucial step, especially for Windows 11 users, as Vanguard often mandates both Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 to ensure a trusted computing environment. Let's dive into a comprehensive guide to get you up and running!
Unlocking the Gates: A Step-by-Step Guide to Enabling Vanguard Secure Boot
Hey there, gamer! Are you ready to dive into your favorite titles only to be met with a pesky error message about Secure Boot? Don't fret! This guide will walk you through the process of enabling Secure Boot for Vanguard, ensuring your system meets the necessary security requirements and gets you back into the action. It might seem a bit technical, but I promise we'll go through it together, step-by-step!
 |
| How To Make Vanguard Secure Boot |
The Why Behind the How: Understanding Secure Boot and TPM 2.0
Before we jump into the technicalities, let's quickly understand why Vanguard requires Secure Boot and TPM 2.0. These are not arbitrary hurdles; they're essential security features designed to protect your system and, in the context of gaming, combat cheating.
- Secure Boot: This is a security standard that helps ensure your PC boots using only software trusted by your motherboard manufacturer. It prevents malicious software from loading during the startup process, creating a more secure environment. Think of it as a bouncer for your operating system's loading process.
- TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module): This
is a hardware-based security module that provides secure storage for encryption keys and other sensitive data. It works in conjunction with Secure Boot to establish a higher standard of trust and safety for booting programs. Vanguard leverages both to verify that your PC is a trustworthy and safe environment, significantly reducing the effectiveness of many cheating methods.
Now that we understand the importance, let's get down to business!
Step 1: Are You Ready for the Secure Boot Journey? Checking Your Current Status
First things first, let's see if Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 are already enabled or if your system even supports them. This will save you a lot of time and effort!
1.1: Checking Your Secure Boot and BIOS Mode
- Press the Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type
msinfo32and press Enter. This will open the System Information window. - In the left panel, click on "System Summary."
- In the right panel, scroll down and look for these two values:
- BIOS Mode: This should be "UEFI". If it says "Legacy," you'll likely need to convert your disk to GPT and enable UEFI, which we'll discuss later.
- Secure Boot State: This should be "On". If it's "Off," then it's currently disabled. If it says "Unsupported," your hardware might not support it, and you should consult your motherboard manufacturer.
1.2: Checking Your TPM 2.0 Status
- Press the Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type
tpm.mscand press Enter. - A "Trusted Platform Module (TPM) Management on Local Computer" window will appear.
- Look at the "Status" section. It should say: "The TPM is ready for use."
- Also, check the "Specification Version." It should be "2.0."
If both Secure Boot State is "On" and TPM Specification Version is "2.0" and "The TPM is ready for use," then congratulations! Your system is already configured, and you should be good to go. If not, proceed to the next steps.
QuickTip: Look for contrasts — they reveal insights.
Step 2: Entering the Digital Sanctum – Accessing Your BIOS/UEFI Settings
This is where the real work begins. We need to access your computer's BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) or UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) settings. The key to enter BIOS can vary greatly depending on your motherboard manufacturer.
2.1: Restarting Your PC
- Save all your work and close any open applications.
- Click on the Start Menu, then the Power icon, and select "Restart."
2.2: The BIOS Key Hunt
As your computer restarts, you'll need to repeatedly press a specific key to enter the BIOS/UEFI settings. This key is often displayed briefly on the screen during startup. Common keys include:
- Dell: F2 or F12
- HP: F10 or Esc
- Lenovo: F1 or F2
- Acer: F2 or Del
- Asus: Del or F2
- MSI: Del
- Gigabyte: Del or F12
If you miss it, don't worry! Just restart your PC again and try a different key. You can also search online for "BIOS key for [Your Motherboard Brand/Model]" if you're unsure.
Step 3: Navigating the BIOS – Enabling Secure Boot and TPM
Once you're in the BIOS/UEFI, the interface will vary significantly depending on your motherboard. However, the general options and steps remain similar. You'll typically use your keyboard's arrow keys to navigate and Enter to select.
3.1: Locating the Key Settings
Look for sections related to "Boot," "Security," "Advanced," or "Authentication." Within these sections, you'll be looking for options like:
Tip: Keep scrolling — each part adds context.
- Secure Boot
- UEFI/Legacy Boot Mode (or CSM - Compatibility Support Module)
- TPM State (or Intel PTT, AMD fTPM, Security Device Support, Trusted Computing)
3.2: Enabling UEFI Mode (If Necessary)
If your "BIOS Mode" was "Legacy" in Step 1, you'll need to switch to UEFI. Be cautious here! If your operating system is installed on an MBR (Master Boot Record) partitioned drive, switching to UEFI without converting it to GPT (GUID Partition Table) can prevent your system from booting.
- Locate "Boot Mode Select," "CSM (Compatibility Support Module)," or a similar option.
- Disable CSM if it's enabled, or set the Boot Mode to "UEFI."
- If your drive is MBR and you need to convert it to GPT, you'll typically need to use Windows' MBR2GPT tool or a third-party partitioning tool. This is a more advanced step and might require reinstalling Windows if not done carefully. Always back up your data before attempting disk conversions!
3.3: Enabling Secure Boot
- Navigate to the "Security" or "Boot" section.
- Find the "Secure Boot" option.
- Set it to "Enabled."
- You might also see a "Secure Boot Mode" option; set this to "Standard" (not custom).
- In some cases, you might need to "Restore Factory Keys" or "Load Default Secure Boot Keys" within the Secure Boot settings. This initializes the necessary keys for Secure Boot to function.
3.4: Enabling TPM 2.0 (If Necessary)
- Look for a section like "Security," "Advanced," or "Trusted Computing."
- Find an option like "Security Device Support," "TPM State," "Intel PTT," or "AMD fTPM switch."
- Set this option to "Enabled" or "Auto."
Step 4: Saving Changes and Exiting BIOS
Once you've made all the necessary changes, it's time to save them and exit the BIOS.
- Look for an "Exit" or "Save & Exit" tab/option.
- Select "Save Changes and Exit" or a similar command. You'll usually be prompted to confirm your decision.
- Your computer will then restart.
Step 5: Verification – Did it Work?
After your PC restarts, let's double-check if Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 are now active.
 |
- Repeat Step 1: Are You Ready for the Secure Boot Journey? Checking Your Current Status.
- Verify that "Secure Boot State" is now "On" and "BIOS Mode" is "UEFI".
- Verify that your TPM status is "The TPM is ready for use" and the "Specification Version" is "2.0".
If all checks pass, you're good to go! Launch your game with Vanguard, and it should now recognize your secure system. If you still encounter issues, proceed to the troubleshooting section.
Troubleshooting Common Secure Boot and TPM Issues
Even with a step-by-step guide, sometimes things don't go as planned. Here are some common issues and their solutions:
Tip: Remember, the small details add value.
Issue 1: "Secure Boot doesn't enable" or "Secure Boot State is still Off"
- BIOS Update: Your BIOS might be outdated and not properly supporting Secure Boot or UEFI. Check your motherboard manufacturer's website for the latest BIOS update and follow their instructions carefully. Be extremely cautious during a BIOS update, as an interruption can brick your motherboard.
- CSM Disabled: Ensure that your CSM (Compatibility Support Module) is completely disabled in your BIOS settings. Secure Boot cannot function with CSM enabled.
- Disk Partition Style: As mentioned, if your OS drive is MBR, you'll need to convert it to GPT to use UEFI and Secure Boot. This is a more involved process.
- Reset BIOS to Defaults: Sometimes, conflicting settings can prevent Secure Boot from enabling. Try resetting your BIOS to optimized defaults, then re-enable UEFI, TPM, and Secure Boot.
Issue 2: "TPM 2.0 not found" or "Compatible TPM could not be found"
- Motherboard Support: Not all older motherboards support TPM 2.0. Check your motherboard's manual or the manufacturer's website to confirm compatibility.
- BIOS Setting Naming: TPM settings can be named differently (Intel PTT, AMD fTPM, Security Device Support, Trusted Computing). Double-check all "Advanced" and "Security" menus in your BIOS.
- Integrated vs. Discrete TPM: Some motherboards have a header for a discrete TPM module. If you're relying on an integrated TPM, ensure it's enabled in BIOS.
Issue 3: "This build of Vanguard requires UEFI secure boot to be enabled" or VAN9001/VAN9003 Error
- This error explicitly points to Secure Boot and/or TPM 2.0. Revisit all the steps above, ensuring both are properly enabled in your BIOS and verified in Windows System Information and
tpm.msc. - Windows 10 vs. Windows 11: While Secure Boot is becoming a standard, Vanguard's strict enforcement of it (and TPM 2.0) is more pronounced on Windows 11. If you're on Windows 10 and still facing issues after enabling these, consider if a clean reinstallation of Windows 11 with UEFI mode enabled from the start might be a long-term solution (though this is a last resort).
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to check if my PC supports Secure Boot?
You can check this by pressing Windows Key + R, typing msinfo32, and looking for "Secure Boot State" in the System Information window. It should say "On" or "Off," or "Unsupported" if your hardware doesn't support it.
How to convert MBR to GPT without data loss for Secure Boot?
Windows 10/11 includes a command-line tool called MBR2GPT that can convert your disk. However, it's crucial to back up your data first, as any interruption can lead to data loss. You'll typically run this from the Windows Recovery Environment.
How to find my motherboard's BIOS key?
The BIOS key is usually displayed on the screen during the very first moments of booting your PC. Common keys include Del, F2, F10, F12, or Esc. If you miss it, try searching online for "[Your PC/Motherboard Brand] BIOS key."
How to enable Intel PTT or AMD fTPM in BIOS?
These are the integrated TPM solutions for Intel and AMD processors, respectively. You'll find them in your BIOS under "Security," "Advanced," or "Trusted Computing" sections. Look for options like "Intel PTT," "AMD fTPM Switch," or "Security Device Support" and set them to "Enabled" or "Auto."
How to update my BIOS?
Visit your motherboard manufacturer's official website, locate your specific motherboard model, and download the latest BIOS update. They will provide detailed instructions on how to flash the BIOS, which usually involves putting the update file on a USB drive and using a utility within the BIOS itself.
QuickTip: Highlight useful points as you read.
How to reset BIOS settings to default?
Within your BIOS menu, there's typically an "Exit" or "Save & Exit" tab/option that includes "Load Optimized Defaults" or "Restore Defaults." Select this, save changes, and exit.
How to troubleshoot a "VAN9001" or "VAN9003" error in Valorant?
These errors specifically indicate that Vanguard requires Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 to be enabled. Follow the steps in this guide carefully to enable both features in your BIOS.
How to ensure my Windows installation is UEFI-compatible?
Check your "BIOS Mode" in msinfo32. If it says "UEFI," your installation is compatible. If it says "Legacy," you'll need to convert your disk to GPT and enable UEFI boot mode in your BIOS.
How to verify Secure Boot is truly active after enabling it?
After enabling Secure Boot in BIOS, restart your PC and then check the "Secure Boot State" in msinfo32. It should clearly show "On."
How to avoid issues when enabling Secure Boot and TPM 2.0?
The most important steps are to back up your data before making significant BIOS changes and to follow your motherboard's specific instructions if available. If your OS drive is MBR, converting to GPT is a critical step before enabling UEFI/Secure Boot.
 |
