Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
The message “Vanguard session is initializing” means the League client is waiting for Riot Vanguard; it does not identify a specific cause by itself. Check for a VAN error code or a requirement in the Vanguard tray icon first, then use the matching Riot instructions. Don’t change TPM, Secure Boot, or other firmware settings unless Riot’s message or guide specifically calls for it.
Why League of Legends shows this message
Riot requires Vanguard to be active whenever the League client is open and during gameplay. Vanguard includes a client and a kernel-mode driver. The initialization message alone does not establish that a particular component, Windows setting, or security feature is responsible. Riot’s FAQ explains Vanguard’s requirement: Riot Vanguard FAQ (League of Legends).
Check for a specific error before changing settings
- Look for a VAN code or a more detailed message in the League client. If one appears, use Riot’s instructions for that exact code rather than applying steps for a different error.
- Check the Vanguard tray icon (VGTray) for a security requirement. Riot says requirements vary by system configuration, and the tray icon can indicate which requirement needs attention. See Vanguard Security Requirements.
- Follow the requirement shown. For example, a message may call for a Windows update or a specific security-setting change. Install available Windows updates and restart if Riot’s instructions say to do so.
The exact “Vanguard session is initializing” wording is not mapped in Riot’s available support guidance to one universal error code or fix. Without an accompanying code or requirement, it is not evidence that TPM, Secure Boot, a service, or a driver conflict is the cause.
Install Windows updates and restart
If Riot identifies an update as required—or you have not completed available Windows updates—install them and restart the PC. Riot includes updates in its general troubleshooting guidance. If the message remains, continue with the general reinstall step below rather than guessing at firmware changes. The relevant checklist is in the Riot Vanguard FAQ.
#1 Best Overall
- Designed to inspire, chosen for champions: Take your game to the next level with the proven precision of Logitech G PRO Wireless Gaming Mouse, crafted to inspire League of Legends players
- LIGHTSPEED wireless: Pro grade performance overcomes the traditional limitations of wireless latency, connectivity, and power to deliver super-fast 1 ms report rate connection
- HERO 25K sensor: Delivers peak performance at any sensitivity with zero smoothing, acceleration, or filtering; the computer mouse is optimized to track insane flicks at speeds over 400 IPS
- Ultra-lightweight: The mouse's innovative endoskeleton creates a super-thin yet incredibly strong outer shell, enabling the body to weigh in at a lightweight and maneuverable 2.8 oz (80 g)
- Ergonomic ambidextrous design: Tournament-ready gaming mouse developed with esports pros and gamers for maximum comfort, control and durability
Use security-setting instructions only for the matching requirement
TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, Memory Integrity, and IOMMU are not interchangeable fixes for every Vanguard initialization message. Riot says the applicable requirements depend on system configuration; make a change only when VGTray or the Riot guide for your exact error calls for it.
If the error is VAN 9005
Use Riot’s specific VAN 9005 guide. It directs players to check TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and Memory Integrity, then restart. If those are configured and VAN 9005 persists, Riot advises contacting Player Support and attaching logs. These steps apply to VAN 9005, not automatically to the initialization wording without that code.
Rank #2
- Designed to inspire, chosen for champions: Take your game to the next level with the proven precision of Logitech G PRO Wireless Gaming Mouse, crafted to inspire League of Legends players
- LIGHTSPEED wireless: Pro grade performance overcomes the traditional limitations of wireless latency, connectivity, and power to deliver super-fast 1 ms report rate connection
- HERO 25K sensor: Delivers peak performance at any sensitivity with zero smoothing, acceleration, or filtering; the computer mouse is optimized to track insane flicks at speeds over 400 IPS
- Ultra-lightweight: The mouse's innovative endoskeleton creates a super-thin yet incredibly strong outer shell, enabling the body to weigh in at a lightweight and maneuverable 2.8 oz (80 g)
- Ergonomic ambidextrous design: Tournament-ready gaming mouse developed with esports pros and gamers for maximum comfort, control and durability
If the error is VAN: RESTRICTION
Follow Riot’s VAN: RESTRICTION guide. It may require a Windows update or a security-setting change; use the requirement stated in the message and restart when instructed. Do not transfer its settings to a different error without a matching prompt.
Take care before changing BIOS or UEFI settings
Firmware changes can affect whether Windows starts and whether BitLocker asks for a recovery key. Riot warns that switching to UEFI before converting the drive can prevent Windows from booting. Resetting Secure Boot keys may also trigger BitLocker recovery when drive encryption is enabled. Before changing boot mode or Secure Boot keys, follow Riot’s Secure Boot guide and the instructions for your hardware and Windows installation.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Rank #3
- The next-generation optical HERO sensor delivers incredible performance and up to 10x the power efficiency over previous generations, with 400 IPS precision and up to 12,000 DPI sensitivity
- Ultra-fast LIGHTSPEED wireless technology gives you a lag-free gaming experience, delivering incredible responsiveness and reliability with 1 ms report rate for competition-level performance
- G305 wireless mouse boasts an incredible 250 hours of continuous gameplay on just 1 AA battery; switch to Endurance mode via Logitech G HUB software and extend battery life up to 9 months
- Wireless does not have to mean heavy, G305 lightweight mouse provides high maneuverability coming in at only 3.4 oz thanks to efficient lightweight mechanical design and ultra-efficient battery usage
- The durable, compact design with built-in nano receiver storage makes G305 not just a great portable desktop mouse, but also a great laptop travel companion, use with a gaming laptop and play anywhere
Reinstall League and Vanguard if general steps fail
If you have checked for a specific code or tray-icon requirement, completed required Windows updates, and still cannot open League, Riot’s general FAQ recommends a clean reinstall of League of Legends and Vanguard. Use Riot’s current FAQ instructions rather than removing components or changing system settings based on an assumed cause: Riot Vanguard FAQ (League of Legends).
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When to contact Riot Support
Contact Riot Player Support if the message persists after the applicable Riot steps, or if a code-specific guide directs you to support. Include the exact message, any VAN code, the requirement shown by VGTray, and logs if the guide requests them. This gives support the details needed to distinguish a general initialization wait from a specific security error.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- HERO Gaming Sensor: Next generation HERO mouse sensor delivers precision tracking up to 25600 DPI with zero smoothing, filtering or acceleration
- 11 programmable buttons and dual mode hyper-fast scroll wheel: The Logitech wired gaming mouse gives you fully customizable control over your gameplay
- Adjustable weights: Match your playing style. Arrange up to five 3.6 g weights for a personalized weight and balance configuration
- LIGHTSYNC technology: Logitech G LIGHTSYNC technology provides fully customizable RGB lighting that can also synchronize with your gaming (requires Logitech Gaming Software)
- Mechanical Switch Button Tensioning: A metal spring tensioning system and metal pivot hinges are built into left and right computer gaming mouse buttons for a crisp, clean click feel with rapid click feedback
Rank #4
- Next-gen 12,000 DPI HERO optical sensor delivers unrivaled gaming performance, accuracy and power efficiency
- Advanced LIGHTSPEED wireless gaming mouse for super-fast 1 ms response time and faster than wired performance
- Ultra-long battery life gives you up to 250 hours of continuous gaming on a single AA battery
- Lightweight mechanical design and classic shape for maximum maneuverability, durability and comfort
- Compact, portable design with convenient built-in storage for included USB wireless receiver
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
