How to Fix VAN9003 Error: A Comprehensive Guide

The VAN9003 error is a common issue encountered by Valorant players, preventing them from launching and enjoying the game. This error often indicates a problem with Vanguard, Riot Games’ anti-cheat system, specifically related to Secure Boot and TPM (Trusted Platform Module) 2.0 requirements. This comprehensive guide provides step-by-step solutions to resolve the VAN9003 error and get you back into Valorant.

Understanding the VAN9003 Error

The VAN9003 error typically arises because Vanguard requires Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 to be enabled in your system’s BIOS/UEFI settings. These security features enhance system integrity and prevent cheating in online games. When Vanguard detects that these features are disabled or not functioning correctly, it triggers the VAN9003 error, preventing Valorant from launching.

Prerequisites

Before diving into the troubleshooting steps, ensure the following:

  • Administrative Privileges: You need administrative privileges on your Windows account.
  • BIOS/UEFI Access: Be prepared to access your computer’s BIOS/UEFI settings. The method varies depending on your motherboard manufacturer (usually by pressing DEL, F2, F12, or ESC during startup).
  • Windows Version: You must be on Windows 10 or Windows 11. Windows 7 and 8 are not supported.

Solutions to Fix VAN9003 Error

Here are several methods to resolve the VAN9003 error. Try them in order until the issue is resolved.

1. Enable Secure Boot

Secure Boot ensures that only trusted operating systems and software can run during startup. Enabling it can resolve the VAN9003 error.

  • Access BIOS/UEFI Settings: Restart your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings.
  • Locate Secure Boot: Navigate to the “Boot,” “Security,” or “Authentication” tab. Look for “Secure Boot” options.
  • Enable Secure Boot: Change the setting to “Enabled.” If there are options like “Secure Boot mode,” select “Standard.” If Secure Boot is greyed out, check for a CSM (Compatibility Support Module) setting and disable it first.
  • Save and Exit: Save the changes and exit BIOS/UEFI. Your computer will restart.

2. Enable TPM 2.0

TPM 2.0 is a hardware-based security module that provides cryptographic keys to secure your system. Ensure it is enabled.

  • Access BIOS/UEFI Settings: Restart your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings.
  • Locate TPM: Navigate to the “Security” or “Advanced” tab. Look for “TPM,” “Intel PTT,” or “AMD fTPM” options. The naming varies depending on your CPU manufacturer.
  • Enable TPM: Change the setting to “Enabled.” If it is already enabled, try disabling it, saving the changes, re-entering the BIOS, and enabling it again.
  • Save and Exit: Save the changes and exit BIOS/UEFI. Your computer will restart.

3. Check TPM Version

Verify that you have TPM 2.0 enabled. Older versions like TPM 1.2 are not supported.

  • Press Windows Key + R: This opens the Run dialog box.
  • Type tpm.msc and press Enter: This opens the TPM Management window.
  • Check TPM Version: Under “TPM Manufacturer Information,” look for the “Specification Version.” It should be 2.0 or higher. If it says “TPM not found,” ensure it’s enabled in BIOS.

4. Convert Disk to GPT (if using Legacy BIOS)

If you’re using an older BIOS (Legacy BIOS), your disk might be using the MBR (Master Boot Record) partition scheme, which is incompatible with Secure Boot. You need to convert the disk to GPT (GUID Partition Table).

Warning: This process can result in data loss. Back up your important files before proceeding.

  • Check Disk Partition Style:
    • Press Windows Key + R, type msinfo32, and press Enter.
    • In the System Information window, look for “BIOS Mode.” If it says “Legacy,” you are using Legacy BIOS.
    • Press Windows Key + R, type diskpart, and press Enter.
    • Type list disk and press Enter.
    • Look for an asterisk (*) under the “GPT” column for your disk. If there is no asterisk, your disk is using MBR.
  • Convert to GPT:
    • Using MBR2GPT Tool (Recommended):
      • Press Windows Key + X and select “Windows Terminal (Admin)” or “Command Prompt (Admin).”
      • Type mbr2gpt /convert /allowFullOS and press Enter.
      • Restart your computer and enter BIOS/UEFI to enable Secure Boot.
    • Using Disk Management (Requires Reinstalling Windows):
      • Back up your data.
      • Boot from a Windows installation media (USB or DVD).
      • During the installation process, delete all existing partitions on the disk.
      • Select the unallocated space to install Windows. The installer will automatically create GPT partitions.

5. Disable CSM (Compatibility Support Module)

CSM can interfere with Secure Boot. Disabling it might resolve the issue.

  • Access BIOS/UEFI Settings: Restart your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI settings.
  • Locate CSM: Navigate to the “Boot” tab. Look for “CSM” or “Compatibility Support Module” options.
  • Disable CSM: Change the setting to “Disabled.”
  • Save and Exit: Save the changes and exit BIOS/UEFI. Your computer will restart.

6. Update BIOS/UEFI

An outdated BIOS/UEFI can sometimes cause compatibility issues. Update to the latest version.

  • Identify Motherboard Model: Determine your motherboard manufacturer and model number.
  • Download BIOS Update: Visit the manufacturer’s website and download the latest BIOS/UEFI update for your motherboard.
  • Follow Update Instructions: Carefully follow the manufacturer’s instructions for updating the BIOS/UEFI. This usually involves using a USB drive.

Warning: A failed BIOS/UEFI update can brick your motherboard. Ensure you follow the instructions precisely.

7. Reinstall Vanguard and Valorant

Sometimes, corrupted Vanguard or Valorant installation files can cause issues. Reinstalling them can resolve the problem.

  • Uninstall Vanguard: Go to “Add or Remove Programs” in Windows, find “Riot Vanguard,” and uninstall it.
  • Uninstall Valorant: Uninstall Valorant as well.
  • Restart Your Computer: Restart your computer.
  • Reinstall Valorant: Download and install Valorant. Vanguard will be installed automatically during the Valorant installation process.

8. Check for Conflicting Software

Certain software, especially those related to virtualization or system modification, can conflict with Vanguard. Try disabling or uninstalling such software.

  • Disable Virtualization Software: Programs like VMware or VirtualBox can sometimes interfere. Temporarily disable them.
  • Check for Overclocking Software: Overclocking utilities might cause instability. Revert to default clock speeds.

Conclusion

The VAN9003 error can be frustrating, but by systematically following these troubleshooting steps, you should be able to resolve the issue and get back to playing Valorant. Remember to double-check your BIOS/UEFI settings and ensure that Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 are enabled. If you continue to encounter problems, consult Riot Games support for further assistance.