Riot Vanguard Error Code VAN 0: How to Fix It

Easy 10-15 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
Error Code
VAN 0
Brand
Riot Vanguard
Product Type
game
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Fix Time
10-15 minutes
Riot Vanguard error code VAN 0 appears when the Vanguard anti-cheat service is not running properly on your computer. This prevents you from launching Valorant and other Riot games that require Vanguard protection.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code VAN 0

  1. Restart Your Computer

    Save any unsaved work before restarting
  2. Check Vanguard Service Status

  3. Run Valorant as Administrator

  4. Reinstall Riot Vanguard

    You'll need to restart your computer after Vanguard reinstallation
  5. Check Windows Updates

  6. Disable Conflicting Software

    Only disable antivirus temporarily and re-enable it after testing
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When to Call a Professional

If the error persists after trying all steps, contact Riot Games support as there may be deeper system conflicts or hardware compatibility issues that require advanced troubleshooting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Vanguard error VAN 0 keep happening?
VAN 0 typically occurs due to Vanguard service conflicts, outdated Windows, or interference from other security software. Regular Windows updates and keeping Vanguard whitelisted in antivirus programs help prevent recurrence.
Can I play Valorant without Vanguard running?
No, Vanguard must be running to play Valorant or other Riot games. It's Riot's anti-cheat system and is required for game access. You cannot bypass or disable it while playing.
Does reinstalling Vanguard delete my game progress?
No, reinstalling Vanguard does not affect your Valorant game progress, rank, or account data. Your progress is saved on Riot's servers, not locally with Vanguard.
Is it safe to run Valorant as administrator?
Yes, running Valorant as administrator is safe and often necessary for Vanguard to function properly. This gives the anti-cheat system the permissions it needs to monitor for cheating software.