If Valorant fails to launch, crashes on startup, gets stuck on the loading screen, or shows errors like VAN 9001 or VAN 1067 in Windows 11, you’re not alone. Many players encounter issues after Windows updates, driver changes, or security setting modifications. Since Valorant relies heavily on its anti-cheat system (Vanguard), even small system configuration changes can prevent the game from running.
Most Valorant launch issues in Windows 11 are caused by disabled TPM/Secure Boot, outdated graphics drivers, corrupted game files, blocked Vanguard service, or compatibility conflicts. The good news is that the issue can usually be resolved with systematic troubleshooting.
If Valorant is not working on your Windows 11 PC, follow the step-by-step fixes below.
How to Fix Valorant Not Working in Windows 11
Go through each method in order. After completing a step, try launching Valorant again.
1. Restart Your PC
Temporary system glitches can prevent Vanguard from loading properly.
- Close Valorant completely.
- Press Windows + X.
- Select Shut down or sign out > Restart.
- After rebooting, launch Valorant again.
This simple step often resolves startup conflicts.
2. Ensure TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot Are Enabled
Windows 11 requires TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, and Valorant enforces these security features.
- Press Windows + R, type:
tpm.msc - Press Enter.
- Ensure TPM status shows Ready for use and version is 2.0.
To check Secure Boot:
- Press Windows + R, type:
msinfo32 - Press Enter.
- Look for Secure Boot State.
- It should say On.
If either is disabled, enable them from your BIOS/UEFI settings.
3. Restart Riot Vanguard Service
Valorant depends on the Vanguard anti-cheat service.
- Press Windows + R, type:
services.msc - Press Enter.
- Locate vgc in the list.
- Double-click it.
- Set Startup type to Automatic.
- Click Start if it’s not running.
- Click Apply > OK.
- Restart your PC.
If Vanguard is not running, Valorant will not launch.
4. Reinstall Riot Vanguard
If Vanguard is corrupted, reinstalling it may fix the issue.
- Press Windows + I.
- Go to Apps > Installed apps.
- Locate Riot Vanguard.
- Click the three-dot menu and select Uninstall.
- Restart your PC.
- Launch Valorant again.
- Vanguard will reinstall automatically.
- Restart once more if prompted.
5. Update Graphics Drivers
Outdated GPU drivers can cause crashes or black screens.
- Press Windows + X.
- Select Device Manager.
- Expand Display adapters.
- Right-click your graphics card.
- Select Update driver.
- Choose Search automatically for drivers.
For best performance, download the latest drivers directly from:
- NVIDIA website
- AMD website
- Intel website
After updating, restart your PC.
6. Run Valorant as Administrator
Permission issues can block certain game components.
- Right-click the Valorant shortcut.
- Select Properties.
- Go to the Compatibility tab.
- Check Run this program as administrator.
- Click Apply > OK.
- Launch the game.
7. Disable Third-Party Antivirus or Firewall Temporarily
Security software can block Vanguard services.
- Open your antivirus software.
- Temporarily disable real-time protection.
- Try launching Valorant.
- If it works, add Valorant and Vanguard to antivirus exclusions.
Also ensure Windows Defender Firewall allows Valorant through.
8. Verify Game Files (Riot Client)
Corrupted game files can prevent launch.
- Open Riot Client.
- Go to Valorant settings.
- Select Repair (if available).
- Allow the repair process to complete.
- Restart your PC.
9. Disable Overlays
Background overlays can interfere with the game.
Disable overlays from:
- Discord
- NVIDIA GeForce Experience
- Xbox Game Bar
- MSI Afterburner
After disabling, restart your system and try again.
10. Update Windows 11
Missing updates can cause compatibility issues.
- Press Windows + I.
- Go to Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates.
- Install available updates.
- Restart your PC.
11. Reinstall Valorant (Last Resort)
If none of the above solutions work:
- Go to Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
- Uninstall Valorant.
- Also uninstall Riot Vanguard.
- Restart your PC.
- Download the latest installer from the official Valorant website.
- Reinstall and restart when prompted.
A fresh installation resolves deep configuration issues.
Conclusion
When Valorant is not working in Windows 11, the issue is most commonly related to TPM/Secure Boot settings, Vanguard service problems, outdated drivers, or system conflicts. In most cases, enabling required security features, restarting Vanguard, updating drivers, or reinstalling the game resolves the issue.
By carefully following the step-by-step solutions above, you should be able to launch Valorant successfully and return to gameplay. If the issue persists even after reinstalling, the problem may be related to BIOS configuration or hardware compatibility that requires further investigation.
