Valorant Error Code 44: How to Fix It

Medium 15-45 minutes High Severity Verified June 2026
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Error Code
44
Brand
Valorant
Product Type
game
Severity
High
DIY Difficulty
Medium
Estimated Fix Time
15-45 minutes
Valorant Error Code 44 means the game's Vanguard anti-cheat system is not running or failed to start properly, preventing you from launching the game. This usually happens after a Windows update, a corrupted Vanguard installation, or because the Vanguard service was manually stopped. The good news is that this error is almost always fixable on your own in just a few minutes by restarting or reinstalling Vanguard.
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Tools You'll Need

How to Fix Error Code 44

  1. Restart Your Computer

  2. Manually Start the Vanguard Service

    Do not modify or disable any other services in this window, as doing so can destabilize Windows.

  3. Check That Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 Are Enabled

    Changing incorrect BIOS settings can prevent Windows from booting. Only modify Secure Boot and TPM settings, and note their original values before making changes.

  4. Reinstall Vanguard Anti-Cheat

    Only download Valorant from the official Riot Games website to avoid malware disguised as game installers.

  5. Temporarily Disable Third-Party Antivirus or Security Software

    Do not leave your antivirus disabled permanently. Re-enable it after testing or after adding the Vanguard exclusion.

  6. Update or Roll Back Windows

    Rolling back Windows updates may leave your system temporarily without the latest security patches. Re-apply updates once the Vanguard compatibility issue is resolved or a fix is released.

  7. Update Your Graphics and Chipset Drivers

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When to Call a Professional

Contact Riot Games Support (support-valorant.riotgames.com) if you have tried all the steps above and still see Error Code 44. This is especially relevant if your motherboard firmware does not support TPM 2.0 or Secure Boot, as you may need a hardware upgrade to meet Vanguard's minimum requirements. A local PC technician can also help if you are uncomfortable navigating BIOS settings or if a deep system conflict is suspected.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Valorant Error Code 44 mean?
Error Code 44 means that Riot Vanguard, Valorant's required anti-cheat software, is not running. Valorant cannot launch without Vanguard active, so you must resolve the Vanguard issue before you can play.
Why does Valorant Error Code 44 appear after a Windows update?
Windows updates can change kernel-level settings, reset service startup configurations, or update security policies in ways that conflict with Vanguard's drivers. Re-enabling Vanguard's service (set to Automatic in services.msc) and confirming Secure Boot and TPM are still enabled in BIOS usually resolves it.
Can I play Valorant without Vanguard?
No. Vanguard is mandatory and must be running for Valorant to function. Riot Games requires it on all accounts to maintain fair play. There is no official way to bypass this requirement.
Is it safe to reinstall Riot Vanguard?
Yes. Uninstalling and reinstalling Vanguard is a standard and safe troubleshooting step recommended by Riot Games. It does not affect your Valorant account, progress, or game files, as long as you also reinstall Valorant afterward through the official installer.
Does Valorant Error Code 44 mean I was banned?
No. Error Code 44 is a technical error related to the Vanguard service not starting — it is not a ban. If you were banned, you would see a different error message specifically referencing your account suspension. Error 44 is a local software/service issue on your PC.

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