Riot Vanguard Install: A Step-by-Step Guide to Troubleshooting Errors on Windows 11

When it comes to playing Riot games such as Valorant, a smooth and uninterrupted gaming experience is essential. However, sometimes errors can occur, causing frustration and disappointment. One of the most common issues that players face is the 'Vanguard anti-cheat has encountered an error' message. In this article, we will explore the possible causes of this error and provide step-by-step solutions to troubleshoot it on Windows 11.

Solution 1: Run Valorant as an Administrator

To start with, you need to ensure that there is no other process interfering with the Vanguard service. To do this, follow these steps:

Step 1: Right-click Valorant on your desktop and choose Properties.

Step 2: Go to the Compatibility tab and check the Run this program as an administrator box.

Step 3: Click Apply and OK to let this change take effect.

By running Valorant as an administrator, you can ensure that the Vanguard service functions properly and resolves any potential conflicts with other programs.

Solution 2: Disable Windows Defender Firewall

The Windows Defender Firewall may block Vanguard services or games, so it's essential to allow Valorant and Vanguard services through the Firewall. To do this:

Step 1: Type Control Panel in the Search box to open it.

Step 2: Next, choose Allow an app or feature through Windows Defender Firewall.

Step 3: Check the Private and Public boxes.

By allowing Valorant and Vanguard services through the Firewall, you can bypass any potential blockages and resolve the error.

Solution 3: Disable Third-Party Antivirus

If you have installed third-party antivirus software on your computer, it may be interfering with the Vanguard service. To resolve this:

Step 1: Press the Windows + I keys together to open Settings.

Step 2: Scroll down the menu in the right panel to find Valorant.

Step 3: Right-click Valorant and choose Properties.

Step 4: Go to the Compatibility tab and check the Run this program as an administrator box.

Step 5: Click Apply and OK to let this change take effect.

By disabling third-party antivirus software, you can ensure that the Vanguard service functions properly and resolves any potential conflicts with other programs.

Solution 4: Bypass Windows Defender Firewall (Alternative Method)

If Solution 2 doesn't resolve the issue, you can try bypassing the Windows Defender Firewall altogether. To do this:

Step 1: Go to C:\Program Files\Riot Vanguard\vgc.exe and open it.

Step 2: Click the Allow another app button again and then click Browse.

Step 3: Check the Private and Public boxes.

Step 4: Click the Browse button and open the Valorant.exe file.

By bypassing the Windows Defender Firewall, you can ensure that the Vanguard service functions properly and resolves any potential conflicts with other programs.

Additional Tip

If none of the above solutions resolve the issue, it's recommended to reinstall Valorant and Vanguard services. To do this:

Step 1: Go to the official website to download and reinstall Valorant.

Step 2: Follow the on-screen instructions to uninstall it.

Step 3: Reinstall Valorant and Vanguard services.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the 'Vanguard anti-cheat has encountered an error' message and enjoy a smooth gaming experience with Riot's Vanguard install.

Riot vanguard install