Valorant Error Code 128: How to Fix It

Easy 10-30 minutes Medium Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
128
Brand
Valorant
Product Type
game
Severity
Medium
DIY Difficulty
Easy
Estimated Fix Time
10-30 minutes
Valorant Error Code 128 is a connection error that means the Riot Client was unable to establish or maintain a stable connection to Riot's servers. This usually happens because of a network hiccup, a corrupted client process, or a service conflict on your PC. Most of the time you can resolve it in just a few minutes without any technical expertise.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 128

  1. Fully Close and Restart the Riot Client

    Make sure all Riot and Valorant processes are fully ended before relaunching — running multiple instances can cause the error to repeat.

  2. Check Riot Server Status

  3. Restart Your Internet Router and Modem

  4. Flush DNS and Reset Network Settings

    Running these commands requires administrator access. They are safe to use and will not delete any files or settings.

  5. Restart the Vanguard Anti-Cheat Service

    Do not disable the Vanguard service permanently — Valorant requires it to run. Only restart or start it.

  6. Temporarily Disable Your Firewall and Antivirus

    Only disable your firewall and antivirus temporarily for testing purposes. Re-enable them immediately after testing and add exceptions instead of keeping them off.

  7. Reinstall the Riot Client

    Back up any custom game settings or keybinds screenshots before uninstalling, as local configuration files may be removed.
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When to Call a Professional

If Error Code 128 persists after trying all steps above, contact Riot Games Support directly at support-valorant.riotgames.com. Provide them with your Riot ID, region, and a description of the troubleshooting steps you've already tried. A support agent can check your account for server-side flags, connection blocks, or account-specific issues that cannot be resolved from your end. You should also contact your Internet Service Provider if multiple games or services are failing to connect, as the issue may be upstream from your home network.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Valorant Error Code 128 mean?
Error Code 128 in Valorant is a connection error indicating that the Riot Client failed to connect to Riot's servers. It can be triggered by network problems, a crashed Riot or Vanguard process, server outages, or a firewall blocking the connection.
Why do I keep getting Error 128 every time I launch Valorant?
If Error 128 appears consistently every launch, the most likely causes are a persistent network configuration issue, a conflicting firewall or antivirus rule blocking the Riot Client, or a corrupted Riot Client installation. Try flushing your DNS, restarting Vanguard as a service, and if needed, fully reinstalling the Riot Client.
Does Valorant Error 128 mean I'm banned?
No, Error Code 128 is a connection error and is not related to account bans. If you were banned, you would see a different error code with a ban-specific message. Error 128 is a technical network issue that affects many players and has nothing to do with your account standing.
Can my VPN cause Valorant Error Code 128?
Yes, using a VPN can interfere with Riot's connection and trigger Error 128. Riot Games does not officially support VPN use with Valorant, and some VPN configurations are actively blocked. Disable your VPN completely before launching Valorant to see if it resolves the error.
Will reinstalling Valorant fix Error Code 128?
Reinstalling can fix Error 128 if a corrupted Riot Client installation is the root cause. However, you should try the quicker fixes first — restarting the client, flushing DNS, and restarting the Vanguard service — before doing a full reinstall, as those steps resolve the error in most cases.

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