Vanguard, the anti-cheat software used by Riot Games for games like Valorant and League of Legends, can sometimes be a bit of a headache. The "Vanguard Error" is a generic term for a range of issues that can prevent you from launching or playing your favorite games. But don't worry, you're not alone, and we're here to help you get back into the action.
How to Solve the Vanguard Error: A Comprehensive Guide
Ready to fix that annoying Vanguard error and get back to climbing the ranks? Let's get started.
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| How To Solve Vanguard Error |
Step 1: The First and Easiest Fix - Restart Everything
Let's start with the simplest solution, because you'd be surprised how often it works. Before we dive into more complex fixes, let's try a fresh start.
Have you tried turning it off and on again? Seriously, it's a classic for a reason. Close Valorant and the Riot Client completely.
Restart your computer. A full system reboot can clear up a lot of temporary glitches and processes that might be interfering with Vanguard.
Did that work? If not, no worries, we have a whole toolbox of solutions for you.
Step 2: Check for Updates and Run as Administrator
Sometimes, the issue is as simple as a pending update or a lack of administrative privileges.
Update Everything: Ensure your game, Riot Client, and even your Windows operating system are up to date. Outdated software can often cause compatibility issues with anti-cheat programs.
Run as Administrator: Right-click on the Riot Client and the Valorant shortcut and select 'Run as administrator'. This gives the programs the necessary permissions to run smoothly on your system.
QuickTip: Slow scrolling helps comprehension.
Step 3: A Little More Technical - Reinstalling Vanguard
If a simple restart and update didn't do the trick, it's time to consider a clean reinstall of Vanguard. Don't worry, this isn't as scary as it sounds.
Uninstall Vanguard:
Open your Control Panel or Settings > Apps & features.
Find 'Riot Vanguard' in the list of installed programs.
Click on it and select 'Uninstall'.
You might be prompted to confirm the uninstallation. Proceed with it.
Restart Your Computer: A crucial step! Restarting your PC after the uninstallation ensures that all the leftover files are cleared from the memory.
Reinstall Valorant (which reinstalls Vanguard):
Open the Riot Client.
Launch Valorant. The game will automatically detect that Vanguard is missing and prompt you to reinstall it.
Follow the on-screen instructions to download and install Vanguard again.
Step 4: Digging Deeper - Checking for Conflicts and Driver Issues
If the problem persists, we need to investigate what's interfering with Vanguard.
Check for conflicting software:
Antivirus/Firewall: Your antivirus or firewall might be mistakenly flagging Vanguard as a threat. Try temporarily disabling your antivirus and firewall to see if that resolves the issue. If it does, you'll need to add an exception for Vanguard in your security software.
Overclocking/Monitoring Software: Programs like MSI Afterburner, Rivatuner, or even some RGB control software can sometimes conflict with anti-cheat systems. Try closing these programs before launching the game.
Update your drivers:
Graphics Drivers: An outdated graphics driver can cause all sorts of problems. Visit the website of your graphics card manufacturer (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel) and download the latest drivers for your model.
Motherboard Drivers: While less common, outdated motherboard drivers can also cause conflicts. Check your motherboard manufacturer's website for any available updates.
Step 5: The Last Resort - Advanced Troubleshooting
If you've made it this far, you're a true champion. It's time for some advanced techniques.
Check your Windows Services:
Press 'Windows Key + R' to open the Run dialog.
Type 'services.msc' and press Enter.
Look for the 'vgc' service.
Right-click on it, go to 'Properties', and make sure the 'Startup type' is set to 'Automatic'.
Click 'Apply' and then 'OK'.
Right-click on the service again and select 'Start' if it's not already running.
Use the Command Prompt:
Open the Command Prompt as an administrator.
Type
sfc /scannowand press Enter. This will scan and repair any corrupted system files.Once that's done, restart your computer.
Step 6: Contact Riot Games Support
If none of these steps have worked, it's time to reach out to the professionals. Riot Games has an excellent support team that can help you with your specific issue.
QuickTip: Look for lists — they simplify complex points.
Visit the Riot Games Support Website.
Submit a ticket with a detailed description of the problem, the error code (if any), and the troubleshooting steps you've already taken.
Provide your log files if requested. This will help them diagnose the issue more accurately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here are 10 quick answers to some common Vanguard error questions.
How to fix Vanguard error 1067?
This error often relates to the 'vgc' service not running. Check the services.msc as described in Step 5 and ensure its startup type is set to 'Automatic' and it's running.
How to fix Vanguard error 128?
This error is usually a system-level conflict. Try updating your Windows and graphics drivers, and check for any conflicting software like overclocking tools.
How to reinstall Riot Vanguard without reinstalling Valorant?
Tip: Don’t just scroll — pause and absorb.
You can uninstall Vanguard from your Apps & features and then simply launch Valorant. The game will automatically detect the missing Vanguard and prompt you to install it.
How to check if Riot Vanguard is running?
You can check in your system tray for the Vanguard icon, or you can check in the Task Manager's Services tab to see if the 'vgc' service is running.
How to fix Vanguard error 57?
This error indicates a problem with the Vanguard kernel driver. A clean reinstallation of Vanguard is the best solution for this.
How to whitelist Vanguard in my antivirus?
Go to your antivirus software's settings, find the "Exceptions" or "Exclusions" section, and add the Vanguard folder and executable files to the whitelist.
QuickTip: Read actively, not passively.
How to fix Vanguard error 1?
This is a general error. Start with the basic steps: restart your PC, and then proceed with a clean reinstall of Vanguard.
How to solve Vanguard error VAN 9003?
This is a common issue on Windows 11 related to Secure Boot and TPM 2.0. Ensure both are enabled in your BIOS/UEFI settings.
How to fix Vanguard error VAN 6?
This error can be related to a connection issue. Check your internet connection and firewall settings, and try running the game as an administrator.
How to update Vanguard manually?
Vanguard updates automatically with the game client. You don't need to update it manually. If there is a pending update, the Riot Client will prompt you to install it.
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