Valorant Error Code 45: How to Fix It

Easy 10-20 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
45
Brand
Valorant
Product Type
game
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Fix Time
10-20 minutes
Valorant Error Code 45 means the Vanguard anti-cheat system is requiring a full system restart before it can initialize properly. This typically happens after a Windows update, a Vanguard update, or when Vanguard's kernel-level driver did not load correctly during your last boot. The good news is that this error is almost always resolved with a simple restart and a few quick checks.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 45

  1. Fully Restart Your PC

    Make sure to save any open work before restarting. Use 'Restart' specifically, not 'Shut Down,' to ensure a clean kernel reload.

  2. Disable Windows Fast Startup

  3. Check That Vanguard Service Is Running

  4. Verify TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot Are Enabled

    Be cautious when changing BIOS settings. Only modify TPM and Secure Boot settings. Changing other BIOS values incorrectly can affect your system stability.

  5. Reinstall Vanguard

  6. Check for Conflicting Software

    Do not disable your antivirus permanently. Re-enable it after testing, and configure exceptions instead for long-term use.
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When to Call a Professional

If you have completed all steps and Valorant Error Code 45 continues to appear, and you are unable to enable TPM 2.0 or Secure Boot because your hardware does not support them, your PC may not meet Valorant's minimum system requirements. In this case, contact Riot Games Support directly at support.riotgames.com with your system specs and a description of the issue. A PC technician can also help you determine if a BIOS update or hardware upgrade is needed to meet Vanguard's requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Valorant Error Code 45 mean?
Error Code 45 means that Valorant's anti-cheat software, Vanguard, needs a system restart to load its kernel driver correctly. It usually appears after a system or Vanguard update, or when Vanguard did not initialize during the last Windows boot.
Why does Valorant Error Code 45 keep coming back after restarting?
If the error returns after restarting, Windows Fast Startup is likely preventing Vanguard from fully reloading its driver. Disabling Fast Startup in your Power Options settings and doing a true restart usually resolves this recurring issue.
Does Valorant Error Code 45 mean I have a virus or my PC was banned?
No. Error Code 45 is not related to a ban or malware. It is simply a technical issue where Vanguard's kernel-level driver did not load correctly. It is a common, fixable error with no negative impact on your account.
Do I need TPM 2.0 for Valorant to work?
Yes. Riot Games requires TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot to be enabled for Vanguard to run. If these are disabled in your BIOS, Vanguard will not start, which can trigger Error Code 45. Enable them in your BIOS/UEFI settings to fix this.
Will reinstalling Valorant fix Error Code 45?
You usually do not need to reinstall all of Valorant — just Vanguard. Uninstall Vanguard through Windows Settings > Apps, restart your PC, and then launch the Valorant client which will reinstall Vanguard automatically. This is faster and typically resolves the issue.

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