VALORANT Secure Boot error fix guide
A guide on fixing the VALORANT Secure Boot error that stops the game from launching when Riot Vanguard's security requirements are not met.
VALORANT players encountering a launch block from Riot Vanguard must enable Secure Boot and UEFI mode on their PC. This error occurs when the anti-cheat system cannot verify the required security configuration during startup, according to a troubleshooting guide from Dot Esports.
The first diagnostic step is to check Windows System Information. Open the Start menu and type 'System Information' or press Windows + R, enter 'msinfo32', and press Enter. Two key values must be confirmed here.
Checking system configuration
Locate the 'BIOS Mode' entry. If it says 'Legacy', the system cannot enable Secure Boot until the boot configuration is changed to 'UEFI'. Directly below this, check the 'Secure Boot State'. If it says 'Off', it must be enabled via the PC's UEFI firmware.
If both values are correct but the error persists, the issue may lie with Vanguard itself. The guide advises a full restart after any changes.
Enabling Secure Boot in BIOS
To enter the BIOS or UEFI firmware, restart the PC and press a key like Delete, F2, F10, F12, or Esc during startup. A Windows method also exists: go to Settings > System > Recovery > Advanced startup > Restart now, then navigate to Troubleshoot > Advanced options > UEFI Firmware Settings.
Inside the firmware menu, users must disable any Legacy/CSM (Compatibility Support Module) option. The guide warns that disabling this on a system installed in Legacy/MBR mode may prevent it from booting. Important files should be backed up, and manufacturer instructions followed for conversion.
Next, find the Secure Boot setting, often under Boot, Security, or Authentication sections, and set it to 'Enabled'. The exact layout varies by manufacturer. Save changes and exit to restart Windows normally.
Why Vanguard requires it
Riot Vanguard performs boot-level security checks. Secure Boot is part of the trusted boot process, allowing the firmware to verify that only approved, digitally signed software loads when Windows starts.
The developer has explained this approach reduces opportunities for cheats to load before the anti-cheat can detect them. When the required configuration is missing, Vanguard blocks the game from launching rather than operating on an untrusted system.
Persistent error troubleshooting
If Secure Boot is enabled in BIOS but Windows System Information still reports it as 'Off', check if CSM or Legacy Boot remains enabled. Additional firmware key settings may also prevent Windows from recognizing the feature. Ensure changes are saved and a full restart is performed.
If Windows correctly shows 'UEFI' and 'Secure Boot State: On' but Vanguard still blocks launch, restart the PC again and check for any additional Vanguard notifications. On Windows 11, Vanguard can enforce other security requirements beyond Secure Boot. The guide states Riot's security enforcement has expanded in some cases.
Only after confirming BIOS and Windows settings are correct should players consider restarting or reinstalling Vanguard.
