Van 9003 Error Windows 11: Fix Valorant Anti-Cheat Error
To fix the Van 9003 error in Valorant on Windows 11, you’ll need to enter your computer’s BIOS settings and enable both Secure Boot and TPM 2.0. These security features are required for Vanguard anti-cheat.
Make certain your system is set to UEFI boot mode, not Legacy/CSM. Double-check this using Windows’ TPM Management Console.
Also, update Windows and your device drivers for added stability. If problems persist, follow more detailed steps to guarantee flawless gameplay and error-free launches.
Understanding the Van 9003 Error on Windows 11

How to Fix VAN 9003 Error on Windows 11 When Launching Valorant
If you’re seeing the VAN 9003 error on Windows 11 while trying to launch Valorant, it usually means your system’s security features like Secure Boot or TPM 2.0 are disabled or misconfigured.
The error message, “This Build of Vanguard is Out of Compliance,” stops Valorant from starting until you fix these settings. This issue commonly appears after hardware changes, BIOS updates, or Windows upgrades that impact your device’s security configuration. Checking your BIOS mode in the System Information app can help confirm if your system is set to UEFI, which is required for Secure Boot to function properly.
The main cause of the VAN 9003 error is incorrect BIOS settings on your motherboard, specifically Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 being turned off or not set up correctly.
Vanguard’s anti-cheat system requires both features enabled to function properly. In some cases, running Valorant in compatibility mode, corrupted game files, or network problems may also cause this error.
To resolve the VAN 9003 error on Windows 11, follow these steps:
- Enter your BIOS/UEFI settings during startup.
- Enable Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 options.
- Save changes and reboot your PC.
- Verify Valorant isn’t running in compatibility mode.
- Repair or reinstall Valorant if corrupted files are suspected.
- Check your network connection to ensure no disruptions.
By properly configuring Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 in BIOS and addressing potential software issues, you can fix the VAN 9003 error and get Valorant running smoothly on Windows 11.
For more detailed troubleshooting tips, visit official Valorant support pages or trusted tech forums.
Key Security Requirements for Valorant and Vanguard
Valorant’s Vanguard Anti-Cheat System: Essential Security Requirements for Your PC
To ensure a fair and secure gaming experience, Valorant relies heavily on its Vanguard anti-cheat system. Before launching Valorant, your PC must meet critical security requirements, including having TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module) and Secure Boot enabled.
TPM 2.0 is a dedicated hardware chip that securely stores cryptographic keys and verifies your system’s integrity, allowing Vanguard to assess if your gaming environment is safe and trustworthy. Secure Boot, a feature accessible through your motherboard’s UEFI/BIOS settings, prevents unauthorized or malicious software from loading during startup by validating digital signatures.
If your PC lacks TPM 2.0 or has Secure Boot disabled, Valorant won’t launch and may show VAN9001 or VAN9003 error codes. Additionally, your system must boot in UEFI mode since legacy BIOS doesn’t support these essential security features. Secure Boot ensures only trusted software is loaded during startup, which protects your system from rootkits and boot-level malware.
Vanguard performs these security checks every time you start your computer, making it crucial to keep both your firmware and Windows 11 operating system up to date. Meeting these requirements ensures uninterrupted Valorant gameplay and compliance with Vanguard’s strict anti-cheat policies.
Optimize your Valorant gaming setup by enabling TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, and UEFI boot mode to enjoy a secure, cheat-free environment. Stay updated with the latest Windows 11 and firmware updates to maintain seamless performance and anti-cheat protection.
How to Enable Secure Boot in BIOS/UEFI
How to Enable Secure Boot in BIOS/UEFI: Step-by-Step Guide
To enable Secure Boot in your BIOS or UEFI settings, start by entering the BIOS setup during system startup (usually by pressing Delete, F2, or another key depending on your motherboard).
Once inside, switch to Advanced Mode if necessary. Navigate to the Boot menu and locate the Secure Boot option. If Secure Boot isn’t visible, try using the BIOS search feature (commonly activated with F9) or check under the Security or Authentication submenus.
Make sure your BIOS is configured to UEFI mode, as Secure Boot requires UEFI rather than Legacy BIOS mode. Enable Secure Boot, then set the OS Type to “Windows UEFI mode” for optimal compatibility.
If available, set the Secure Boot Mode to Standard for default security settings. After making these changes, save your configuration (usually by pressing F10) and restart your computer.
To verify that Secure Boot is enabled, open Windows and run msinfo32. Look for “Secure Boot State” showing as “On” in the System Information window.
Enabling Secure Boot enhances your PC’s security by preventing unauthorized software from loading during the boot process. Follow this guide to ensure your system is protected with Secure Boot enabled in BIOS/UEFI.
Activating TPM 2.0 for Vanguard Compliance

How to Enable TPM 2.0 for Valorant Vanguard and Windows 11 Security
To meet Valorant’s Vanguard anti-cheat requirements and enhance Windows 11 security, enabling TPM 2.0 (Trusted Platform Module) is crucial after activating Secure Boot. Here’s a step-by-step guide to check and activate TPM 2.0 on your PC.
Step 1: Check TPM 2.0 Status on Windows
Press Win + R, type tpm.msc, and press Enter to open the TPM Management Console. Verify that TPM is present, enabled, and running version 2.0. If TPM is missing, disabled, or an earlier version, you’ll need to enable it via BIOS/UEFI settings.
Step 2: Access BIOS/UEFI to Enable TPM
Restart your computer and enter BIOS/UEFI by pressing keys like F2, DEL, or ESC during startup. Navigate to the Security, Advanced, or Peripherals tab to find TPM settings.
- For Intel systems, look for and enable PTT (Platform Trust Technology)
- For AMD systems, enable fTPM (Firmware TPM)
Save the changes and exit BIOS/UEFI.
Step 3: Confirm TPM 2.0 Activation
After rebooting into Windows, open tpm.msc again to ensure TPM 2.0 is active and enabled.
Troubleshooting TPM Activation
If TPM 2.0 is still unavailable or activation fails, consult your motherboard manufacturer’s support page for device-specific instructions or firmware updates.
By enabling TPM 2.0, you not only comply with Valorant Vanguard anti-cheat system requirements but also boost your PC’s security with Windows 11 features.
Follow these steps to activate TPM 2.0 today and enjoy a safer gaming and computing experience.
Switching BIOS to UEFI Mode and Disabling CSM
How to Switch BIOS to UEFI Mode and Disable CSM to Fix Valorant Vanguard Errors on Windows 11
If you’re encountering Valorant Vanguard errors like Van 9003 or want to unlock full Windows 11 security features, switching your system from legacy BIOS mode to UEFI and disabling CSM (Compatibility Support Module) is essential.
UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) offers faster boot times, improved security with Secure Boot, and better compatibility with modern software, unlike legacy BIOS. Meanwhile, CSM maintains support for older hardware but can cause conflicts with Windows 11 security protocols and anti-cheat systems like Vanguard.
By disabling CSM and enabling UEFI mode, you ensure optimal system performance, enhanced security, and compatibility with Valorant’s anti-cheat requirements.
Step-by-step guide to switch BIOS to UEFI and disable CSM:
- Access BIOS/UEFI Setup: Restart your computer and press the BIOS key—commonly F2, Delete, or Esc—during startup.
- Find CSM Settings: Navigate to the Boot or Advanced tab to locate the Compatibility Support Module (CSM) option.
- Disable CSM or Select “UEFI Only”: Turn off CSM or set the boot mode exclusively to UEFI.
- Verify Drive Partition Format: Ensure your system drive is formatted with GPT (GUID Partition Table), not MBR, to prevent boot errors after switching.
Following these steps will help you fix Valorant Vanguard errors, enhance Windows 11 security, and enjoy faster boot times with UEFI mode.
For more tips on optimizing your PC and troubleshooting Valorant issues, keep exploring our guides.
Step-by-Step Guide to Verifying System Security Settings
How to Verify and Optimize Windows 11 Security Settings for Valorant Anti-Cheat
After configuring your system to UEFI mode and disabling CSM, it’s essential to verify and optimize Windows 11 security settings to meet Valorant’s anti-cheat requirements. Follow these step-by-step instructions to ensure your PC is fully protected and compliant.
1. Open Windows Security
Access Windows Security via the system tray icon or by searching from the Start menu.
2. Confirm Security Status
Check that all key areas show a green check mark:
- Virus & threat protection
- Account protection
- Firewall & network protection
- App & browser control
- Device security
3. Run a Full Virus Scan
Under Virus & threat protection, run a quick or full virus scan to detect any threats. Verify that real-time protection, cloud-delivered protection, and automatic sample submission are enabled to keep your system continuously protected.
4. Enable Firewall for All Network Profiles
Ensure your firewall is turned on for Domain, Private, and Public network profiles to block unauthorized access.
5. Review App & Browser Control Settings
Navigate to Exploit protection settings and confirm that system-wide protections are active. This helps safeguard your system against vulnerabilities exploited by cheats.
6. Activate Core Isolation and Memory Integrity
In Device Security, enable Core isolation and Memory integrity features to enhance hardware-level protection. Restart your PC to apply these settings.
7. Check Account Protection Features
Verify that Windows Hello biometric sign-in and Dynamic Lock are configured for secure and convenient access.
8. Sync Microsoft Account and Set Backup Sign-In Options
Synchronize your Microsoft account settings and establish backup sign-in methods to maintain secure access to your account.
By thoroughly verifying and optimizing these Windows 11 security settings, you ensure your system meets Valorant’s anti-cheat standards for a secure and fair gaming experience.
For more tips on Windows security and gaming performance, keep exploring our guides.
Additional Troubleshooting for Persistent Van 9003 Issues

How to Fix Persistent VAN 9003 Errors on Windows 11: Ultimate Troubleshooting Guide
If you’re experiencing persistent VAN 9003 errors on your Windows 11 PC, even after optimizing security settings, these issues often arise from deeper system conflicts or misconfigurations. To effectively fix VAN 9003 errors and ensure smooth Vanguard operation, follow this comprehensive troubleshooting guide:
1. Resolve Driver Conflicts for VAN 9003 Errors:
Uninstall any third-party driver tools or security software that may conflict with Riot Vanguard.
Use Device Manager to locate and remove hidden or ghosted Vanguard drivers.
After cleaning up, reinstall Vanguard with administrative privileges to prevent driver-related VAN 9003 problems.
2. Adjust BIOS Settings to Prevent VAN 9003 Issues:
Access your BIOS setup and disable legacy boot or Compatibility Support Module (CSM).
Reset BIOS settings to factory defaults, verify your system date and time, and disable Fast Boot.
Proper BIOS configuration ensures Vanguard initializes correctly and avoids VAN 9003 errors.
3. Repair Windows System Files to Fix VAN 9003 Errors:
Run System File Checker (SFC) and Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM) scans to repair corrupt Windows files.
Confirm that your user account has full permissions for Vanguard and verify that group policies don’t restrict driver operations, which can cause VAN 9003 failures.
4. Eliminate Software Conflicts Causing VAN 9003 Errors:
Perform a clean boot of Windows 11 by disabling all non-essential startup programs, overlays, VPNs, and macro tools.
These applications can interfere with Vanguard’s validation process and trigger VAN 9003 errors.
By systematically following these steps, you can resolve persistent VAN 9003 errors on Windows 11, ensuring Vanguard runs smoothly and your gaming experience remains uninterrupted.
For more troubleshooting tips and updates, stay tuned to our tech guides.
Updating Windows, Drivers, and Vanguard Software
To ensure smooth gameplay and prevent Van 9003 errors, update your Windows operating system along with your graphics and network drivers. Use Device Manager or official hardware manufacturer tools such as GeForce Experience to download and install the latest drivers.
Keeping your drivers up to date is crucial as outdated drivers can cause conflicts with Riot Games Vanguard anti-cheat software. After updating, restart your PC to apply the changes and avoid system conflicts.
Additionally, to maintain Vanguard’s effectiveness, always close and restart the Valorant launcher after updates to apply any anti-cheat patches. If you continue experiencing issues, uninstall and reinstall Vanguard directly through the Valorant launcher.
After performing any Windows or driver updates, verify that Vanguard is actively running by checking the Task Manager or Windows Services. Completing all these updates before launching Valorant will help minimize anti-cheat errors and enhance your gaming experience.
Enhancing Performance and Network Stability for Valorant
Boost Your Valorant Performance and Network Stability with These 4 Essential Tips
Experiencing lag, packet loss, or stuttering in Valorant can ruin your gameplay. To enjoy a smooth and competitive gaming experience, it’s important to optimize both your system performance and network connection before jumping into matches.
Follow these four proven steps to enhance Valorant’s performance and ensure a stable, low-latency connection:
1. Use Network Acceleration Tools for Valorant
Optimize your internet routing with popular network acceleration software like ExitLag or UU Game Booster. These tools dynamically select the fastest, most stable routes to Riot’s servers, reducing ping and minimizing packet loss for a smoother Valorant experience.
2. Prioritize Valorant in Your System Resources
Reduce in-game lag by setting Valorant as a high-priority process in your Windows Task Manager or enabling Windows Game Mode. This limits background app interference and allocates more CPU and RAM to Valorant, lowering latency and improving frame rates.
3. Switch to a Wired Ethernet or 5 GHz Wi-Fi Connection
For the most reliable connection, use a wired Ethernet cable when playing Valorant. If Ethernet isn’t an option, connect to your router’s 5 GHz Wi-Fi band and position yourself close to the router to minimize signal interference and maintain stable network speeds.
4. Configure Port Forwarding and Close Bandwidth-Hogging Apps
Set up port forwarding for Valorant’s required ports to ensure direct communication with Riot’s servers. Additionally, close background applications that consume significant bandwidth to prevent network congestion and reduce in-game lag.
Implementing these Valorant performance tips will help you achieve lower ping, reduced packet loss, and a more stable connection—giving you the competitive edge you need to dominate your matches.
For more Valorant optimization guides and gaming tips, stay tuned to our blog.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Dual-Boot Setups With Linux Cause Van 9003 Errors on Windows 11?
Yes, dual-boot setups with Linux can cause VAN 9003 errors if you disable Secure Boot or TPM 2.0 in BIOS. Make sure both features stay enabled and use UEFI mode to prevent anti-cheat issues.
Will a BIOS Update Affect My Vanguard Compliance for Valorant?
Imagine updating your BIOS and suddenly losing access—yes, a BIOS update can reset or disable TPM 2.0, Secure Boot, or UEFI. Always double-check these settings after updating to maintain Vanguard compliance and avoid game errors.
Is Van 9003 Error Triggered by Overclocked CPUS or GPUS?
No, you won’t trigger the VAN 9003 error by overclocking your CPU or GPU. Focus on enabling Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 in BIOS. Overclocking affects stability, but not the specific anti-cheat compliance checks.
Does Using Windows 11 Insider Preview Impact Valorant Anti-Cheat Compatibility?
Yes, using Windows 11 Insider Preview affects Valorant anti-cheat compatibility. You’ll face errors if Secure Boot or TPM 2.0 aren’t enabled or stable. Stick to official Windows releases for reliable Vanguard performance and fewer issues.
Can Hardware Changes, Like a New Motherboard, Cause the Van 9003 Error?
Absolutely—swapping your motherboard can unexpectedly trigger the VAN 9003 error. After such a change, you must re-enable Secure Boot, TPM 2.0, and switch to UEFI in BIOS to restore anti-cheat compliance.
Conclusion
Don’t let the dreaded Van 9003 error ruin your Valorant dreams! With just a few tweaks—enabling Secure Boot, activating TPM 2.0, and updating everything—you’ll turn your PC into an anti-cheat fortress. Follow these steps like your rank depends on it, and you’ll blast through the error faster than a Jett dash. Conquer those security settings, jump back into the game, and never let Van 9003 stand in your way again!