How to fix Riot Vanguard encountered an error in Valorant

Fariha Bhatti Published 03/08/2023

Valorant can sometimes run into random errors upon booting due to a stringent Vanguard, an anti-cheat that sometimes detects false positives.

“Riot Vanguard has encountered an error” is one of the common booting errors in Valorant. Typically it happens when the anti-cheat detects third-party software that could potentially impact the game. Sometimes, however, it’s just a false alarm. Vanguard often detects ad removers and anti-virus as malicious programs, leading to errors.

You may get rid of this error by following a few simple steps.

Fixes for Riot Vanguard encountered an error in Valorant

Here are a few ways to safely boot up Valorant after encountering a Riot Vanguard error.

Restart Valorant and system

As mentioned earlier, sometimes it’s a false positive that can go away by restarting the game and then your computer. First, try ending Valorant programs through Task Manager, and if the issue persists, go for a system restart.

To restart Valorant, press ALT+CTRL+DLT and select Task Manager. Here, press V and End Task all Vanguard and Valorant programs. Now, restart Vanguard and Valorant opening both as administrator. This should resolve the error. However, go for a PC restart if the error persists.

Enable TPM 2.0 and secure boot

In severe cases, when you have tried all solutions, go for TPM 2.0 and secure boot. Here’s how you can do it:

Before enabling TPM 2.0, you need to verify that your computer’s hardware supports it. Most modern PCs should have TPM 2.0 support, but it’s better to confirm. You can check this in the BIOS/UEFI settings or refer to your motherboard’s documentation.

Access BIOS/UEFI Settings: To enable TPM 2.0, you’ll need to access your computer’s BIOS/UEFI settings during startup. The process may vary depending on your motherboard or laptop manufacturer. Usually, you need to press a specific key (such as Del, F2, F10, or F12) repeatedly during boot-up to access the BIOS/UEFI.
Locate TPM Settings: Once you’re in the BIOS/UEFI settings, look for the TPM (Trusted Platform Module) section. The location and naming of this section can vary depending on the manufacturer.
Enable TPM 2.0: In the TPM section, you should see an option to enable or activate TPM. Enable it and save the changes in the BIOS/UEFI settings.
Reboot your Computer: After enabling TPM 2.0, save the changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI settings. Your computer will restart.
Check Vanguard and Valorant: Once your computer boots up, launch the Valorant game and see if the Riot Vanguard error related to TPM 2.0 is resolved.

Other ways to fix the Riot Vanguard error

Before going for a secure boot, you may want to uninstall and then reinstall Vanguard and maybe even Valorant. This should resolve the Riot Vanguard error in most cases.

Make sure all third-party software, including anti-viruses, has also been turned off to avoid false positives. Finally, update all your graphic drivers before booting up Valorant.

Fariha Bhatti

About Fariha Bhatti

Fariha Bhatti is a long-time gaming writer who loves competitive FPS games and slots with particularly fun themes. She got her start playing classic games developed by SNK, from legendary fighting game series The King of Fighters to challenging platform franchise Metal Slug. She now spends most of her time playing Valorant and Counter-Strike 2 while working her way through new slot releases to find her next favorite. Fariha has been published at PCGamesN, TalkEsport and ONE Esports.

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