How to Fix VAL 79 Error in Valorant: A Comprehensive Guide

Encountering the VAL 79 error in Valorant can be frustrating, interrupting your gameplay and leaving you searching for solutions. This error typically indicates a connection issue between your computer and the Valorant game servers. This guide provides a detailed, step-by-step approach to troubleshooting and resolving the VAL 79 error, so you can get back to dominating the competition.

Understanding the VAL 79 Error

The VAL 79 error in Valorant primarily signals a problem with your internet connection or the Valorant servers. It can be caused by various factors, including:

  • Server Issues: Riot Games’ servers might be experiencing downtime or maintenance.
  • Network Problems: Your internet connection could be unstable or experiencing packet loss.
  • Firewall Restrictions: Your firewall might be blocking Valorant’s access to the internet.
  • Outdated Drivers: Old or corrupted network drivers can cause connectivity issues.
  • Conflicting Software: Other applications might be interfering with Valorant’s network connection.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix VAL 79

Here’s a breakdown of solutions, starting with the simplest and progressing to more advanced troubleshooting steps:

1. Check Valorant Server Status

Before diving into complex solutions, confirm whether the issue lies with Riot Games’ servers. Visit the official Valorant server status page to check for any reported outages or maintenance. If servers are down, the only thing to do is wait for them to be restored.

2. Restart Your Router and Computer

This classic troubleshooting step often resolves temporary network glitches.

  • Restart Router: Unplug your router from the power outlet, wait for 30 seconds, and plug it back in.
  • Restart Computer: Restart your computer to refresh its network connections.

After both devices have restarted, launch Valorant and check if the error persists.

3. Verify Your Internet Connection

A stable and reliable internet connection is crucial for playing Valorant.

  • Run a Speed Test: Perform a speed test to ensure your internet speed meets Valorant’s minimum requirements. A speed test can be easily found by searching it up on any major search engine.
  • Check for Packet Loss: Packet loss can significantly impact online gaming. Use online tools or command-line utilities like ping or traceroute to identify any packet loss issues. For example, open Command Prompt and type ping google.com -n 20. This sends 20 pings to Google, and the results will show if any packets were lost.
  • Switch to a Wired Connection: If you’re using Wi-Fi, try connecting your computer directly to your router using an Ethernet cable for a more stable connection.

4. Disable Your Firewall Temporarily

Your firewall might be blocking Valorant’s access to the internet. Temporarily disable your firewall and launch Valorant to see if the error is resolved.

Warning: Disabling your firewall makes your computer vulnerable to security threats. Re-enable it immediately after testing. If disabling the firewall fixes the problem, configure your firewall to allow Valorant’s executables (Valorant.exe, RiotClientServices.exe) through.

5. Update Your Network Drivers

Outdated or corrupted network drivers can cause connectivity problems. Update your network drivers to the latest version.

  • Device Manager: Open Device Manager, expand “Network adapters,” right-click on your network adapter, and select “Update driver.”
  • Manufacturer’s Website: Download the latest drivers from your network adapter manufacturer’s website.

6. Flush DNS and Reset TCP/IP

Flushing your DNS cache and resetting TCP/IP can resolve network configuration issues.

  • Flush DNS: Open Command Prompt as administrator and run the command ipconfig /flushdns.
  • Reset TCP/IP: In the same Command Prompt window, run the command netsh int ip reset.

Restart your computer after performing these steps.

7. Close Conflicting Applications

Some applications can interfere with Valorant’s network connection. Close any unnecessary applications running in the background, especially those that consume bandwidth, such as:

  • Streaming services (Netflix, Spotify)
  • Download managers
  • VPNs

8. Run Valorant as Administrator

Running Valorant with administrative privileges can resolve permission-related issues.

  • Right-click on the Valorant shortcut and select “Run as administrator.”

9. Check Your Antivirus Software

Your antivirus software might be interfering with Valorant. Add Valorant and Riot Games to your antivirus software’s exception list.

10. Reinstall Valorant

If none of the above solutions work, consider reinstalling Valorant. This can resolve corrupted game files or installation issues.

  • Uninstall Valorant through the Control Panel or Settings app.
  • Download the latest version of Valorant from the official website.
  • Reinstall the game.

11. Contact Riot Games Support

If you’ve exhausted all the troubleshooting steps and the VAL 79 error persists, contact Riot Games Support for assistance. Provide them with detailed information about the error and the troubleshooting steps you’ve already taken.

Preventing VAL 79 Error in the Future

  • Maintain a Stable Internet Connection: Regularly check your internet connection and address any issues promptly.
  • Keep Your Drivers Updated: Update your network drivers and other relevant drivers regularly.
  • Monitor Your System: Be aware of any software conflicts or performance issues that might affect Valorant.

By following these comprehensive steps, you should be able to effectively troubleshoot and resolve the VAL 79 error in Valorant, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable gaming experience. Good luck, and happy gaming!