Why is VALORANT not opening on Windows 11? The cause may be a background software conflict, a local game-cache problem, an outdated graphics driver, or a Vanguard requirement reported by an error code. Start with the reversible software checks below. If VALORANT displays a VAN code, record the full code and follow Riot Games Support’s instructions for that specific error rather than changing Windows or firmware settings at random.
1. Restart Windows and identify the exact error
Restart the PC, then try launching VALORANT again. If it still fails, note what happens: whether the Riot Client opens, whether the game briefly starts and closes, and the full wording of any error message. Record any VAN code exactly as displayed.
Riot Games Support directs players with a Vanguard error to the guidance for that code. Use its Vanguard error-code solutions before trying a general fix; different codes can point to different causes and requirements.
2. Check for software conflicts and clear the game cache
Background applications can interfere with startup. Riot’s launch troubleshooting guidance includes reducing background-process conflicts with a clean boot, checking firewall exceptions, temporarily checking whether third-party antivirus software is involved, and clearing the local game cache.
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- Check background software: Use Riot’s clean-boot instructions to test whether a background process is interfering. A clean boot changes which services and startup applications run, so follow the instructions carefully and restore your usual startup configuration after the test.
- Check firewall and antivirus: Confirm VALORANT and Riot components are allowed through your firewall. If you briefly disable third-party antivirus as a diagnostic, do so only long enough to test the launch, then turn protection back on. Do not leave security software disabled.
- Clear the local cache: Follow Riot’s instructions for removing the game’s local cache. Avoid deleting unrelated folders or files.
These are troubleshooting steps, not guaranteed fixes. If the problem remains, restore any temporary security or startup changes before moving on.
3. Update the graphics driver, then repair the installation if needed
Riot also recommends updating the graphics driver and, if earlier troubleshooting does not resolve the issue, reinstalling VALORANT and Vanguard. Use the graphics-driver update instructions for your GPU and Windows version; avoid driver-download sites that are not the GPU maker’s official source.
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- Update the graphics driver. Restart Windows after the update, then test VALORANT.
- If it still will not open, reinstall VALORANT and Vanguard. Follow Riot’s current reinstall instructions so both the game and its anti-cheat component are addressed.
Riot lists these actions as general launch troubleshooting, but does not guarantee they will resolve every failure.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.4. Change Windows security or firmware settings only for a matching Vanguard error
Do not enter BIOS/UEFI or change security settings just because VALORANT fails to launch. First match the displayed VAN code to Riot’s instructions. Riot associates VAN 9002 with disabled Exploit Protection. Its VAN 9005 guidance discusses TPM 2.0, UEFI-compatible firmware, Secure Boot, and Memory Integrity.
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Riot states that TPM 2.0 is required for VALORANT on Windows 11 in its TPM 2.0 guide. Secure Boot setup is device-dependent: Riot’s Secure Boot guide says it depends on UEFI, GPT partitioning, and firmware support, and warns that instructions vary by device.
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- Follow the Riot article for the exact code shown, rather than enabling every security feature preemptively.
- If the guide calls for a BIOS/UEFI change, consult the PC or motherboard maker’s instructions for your specific model. Firmware menus and procedures differ, and an incorrect change can affect whether Windows starts.
- If the code continues after you follow its troubleshooting guidance, contact Riot Player Support.
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