VAN9003. This guide will help you quickly fix the issues in Vanguard and get back into the game.
Nothing is more annoying than being excited to start your game and then ending up being blocked by a system error. Unfortunately, Valorant players are not exempted from this problem due to the VAN9003 Valorant error.
What is the VAN9003 Error?
The VAN9003 error is simply a security-related issue that prevents the launch of Valorant on your device. It is a pop-up message saying, “Secure Boot not meeting requirements.” Due to Riot Games’ initiative to maintain Valorant’s fair environment, it ends up with these errors in your screen.
The Root Cause
If you’re encountering a VAN9003 error, it simply means that your system wasn’t able to meet the security requirements of Valorant. There are two key security features that you’ll have to pay attention to in this problem:
- Secure Boot
- Trusted Platform Module (TPM)
Valorant has a strict anti-cheat system called Vanguard. With this, it requires you to enable these features to ensure that you are keeping the integrity of the game. If one of these two were disabled or not properly configured, it will result in a VAN9003 error.
How to Fix the VAN9003 Error
Here are the solutions we’ve gathered to help you quickly get back into the action in Valorant:
Enable Secure Boot
Secure Boot is a security standard that helps prevent unauthorized software from loading during the boot process. Follow these steps to enable it:
- Restart your computer, then enter the BIOS settings by pressing F2, F10, or Del during startup.
- Go to the tab labeled “Security” or “Boot.”.
- Search for the “Secure Boot” option to set it “Enabled.”
- Save your changes and proceed to exit BIOS.
Check and Enable TPM.
Trusted Platform Module (TPM) is a security chip that provides hardware-based, security-related functions. Here’s how you can check and enable TPM in your computer:
- Press Win + R, then type “tpm.msc” and hit Enter.
- “The TPM is ready for use” will flash if TPM is present and enabled.
- However, if not, you have to activate it in BIOS settings.
Update Drivers and Windows
Besides secure boot and TPM, outdated drivers or Windows versions can sometimes cause the error. Make sure to update them to avoid encountering issues:
- Open your Windows Settings, then go to “Windows Update.”
- Select “Check for updates” and install any available updates.
- For your drivers, go search for “Device Manager” to update drivers for your graphics card and other essential components.
Run Valorant in Compatibility Mode
If the error still shows up after doing the above steps, try to run Valorant in compatibility mode:
- Right-click your Valorant shortcut and select “Properties.”
- Look for the “Compatibility” tab.
- Check “Run this program in compatibility mode,” then select a previous Windows version.
- Apply your changes, then try to run Valorant again.
Reinstall Vanguard
You may have to reinstall Vanguard to resolve the issue if all the methods above did not work.
- In the Control Panel, uninstall the Vanguard program.
- Then, restart your computer.
- Launch Valorant, as it will reinstall Vanguard automatically.
Special Considerations for Windows 11 Users
Unfortunately, the VAN9003 error is more likely to occur with Windows 11 users. It is because Riot Vanguard has similar security requirements with Windows 11, which includes TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. Besides this, Vanguard requires a robust CPU and GPU to function. Now, if you’re using an older system that did not meet the Windows 11 requirements, expect to encounter this error frequently.
Prevention is Better Than Cure
For prevention of encountering the VAN9003 error in the future:
- Make sure that your system is up to date with the latest Windows updates and drivers.
- Check if your Secure Boot and TPM are enabled.
- Do not tamper with your Vanguard or other game files.
- If you’re using an older system, consider getting a hardware upgrade that will fit the Windows 11 requirement.
Conclusion
Game-related issues may be frustrating to encounter, especially those that are difficult to troubleshoot with. However, Valorant’s VAN9003 error is an aftermath of their commitment to maintain a secure gaming environment. With this, Vanguard is able to filter unwelcome guests in the game and maintain fair play.
By simply following the steps in this guide, you’ll be able to be back in the game. If you’re still experiencing the issue despite following the steps, you will have to reach out to Riot Games’ support team. They will be able to provide you with assistance that is appropriate to your issue.