Hey guys! If you're a Valorant player, chances are you might have encountered the dreaded VAN9003 error. Don't worry; it's a common issue, and I'm here to walk you through the steps to fix it. This guide is designed to be super easy to follow, so you can get back to dominating in Valorant in no time. Let's dive in!

Understanding the VAN9003 Error

First off, let’s understand what this error actually means. The VAN9003 error in Valorant is usually related to TPM (Trusted Platform Module) 2.0 and Secure Boot settings on your computer. These are security features that Riot Games, the makers of Valorant, require to ensure fair play and prevent cheating. Basically, Valorant wants to make sure no one is messing with the game files to gain an unfair advantage. So, when your system doesn't meet these security requirements, you get the VAN9003 error. It sounds technical, but trust me, we’ll break it down into simple, actionable steps. The error message usually pops up when the game detects that TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot are either disabled or not properly configured in your BIOS settings. Now, before you start panicking, know that this is a fixable problem. You don't need to be a tech genius to resolve it. We just need to ensure that these settings are correctly enabled in your computer's BIOS. This might sound a bit daunting if you've never tinkered with BIOS settings before, but I promise it's not as scary as it seems. We'll take it one step at a time. Think of it as giving your computer a little nudge in the right direction so it can play nice with Valorant. By the end of this guide, you'll not only have fixed the VAN9003 error but also gained a bit more understanding of how your computer's security features work. So, grab a cup of coffee, take a deep breath, and let's get started. Remember, the goal here is to make sure your system is secure and ready to run Valorant smoothly. And if you get stuck at any point, don’t hesitate to ask for help. The Valorant community is pretty supportive, and there are plenty of resources available online to guide you through any tricky parts. Together, we'll get you back in the game in no time!

Checking TPM 2.0 Status

The first thing we need to do is check if TPM 2.0 is enabled on your system. TPM (Trusted Platform Module) is a security feature that provides hardware-based security functions. To check its status, follow these steps:

1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type tpm.msc and press Enter. This command opens the TPM Management window.
3. Check the Status:
   • If TPM is enabled, you’ll see a message that says “TPM is ready for use.” You can also see the TPM version, which should be 2.0.
   • If TPM is not enabled, you’ll see a message indicating that TPM is not found or is not compatible. If this is the case, you’ll need to enable it in your BIOS settings. Don’t worry, we'll cover that in the next section. It's important to note that if your computer is a bit older, it might not have TPM 2.0. In that case, you might need to consider upgrading your motherboard or computer to meet Valorant's requirements. However, before you jump to that conclusion, double-check your BIOS settings, as TPM might just be disabled. Checking the TPM status is a crucial first step because it helps us understand whether the VAN9003 error is indeed related to TPM. If TPM is already enabled and you’re still getting the error, the problem might lie elsewhere, such as with Secure Boot settings or other compatibility issues. But let's tackle one thing at a time. For now, focus on getting that TPM status checked. If it’s enabled, great! We can move on to the next step. If not, we'll head into the BIOS and get it sorted out. And remember, if you're feeling unsure about any of these steps, it's always a good idea to consult with someone who's more tech-savvy or to look up specific tutorials for your computer model. The goal is to fix the error without accidentally messing anything else up. So, take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and you'll be back to playing Valorant in no time!

Enabling TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot in BIOS

Now, let's get into the BIOS settings to enable TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. This is where things might seem a bit intimidating, but I'll guide you through it. BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) is a firmware that initializes your hardware during the boot-up process. Accessing BIOS can vary depending on your motherboard manufacturer, but here are some common methods:

1. Restart Your Computer: The first step is to restart your computer. You'll need to access the BIOS menu as it boots up.
2. Enter BIOS:
   • Common Keys: Look for a message on the screen during startup that tells you which key to press to enter setup. Common keys include Del, F2, F12, Esc, or other function keys. The key to press can vary, so pay close attention to the startup screen.
   • Keep Pressing: Start pressing the key repeatedly as soon as your computer begins to restart. This ensures you don't miss the window to enter BIOS.
3. Navigate to Security Settings:
   • Once in the BIOS menu, use your arrow keys to navigate to the “Security,” “Boot,” or “Advanced” settings. The exact name of the section can vary depending on your BIOS version.
4. Enable TPM 2.0:
   • Look for an option related to “TPM,” “Trusted Platform Module,” or “Security Device.”
   • Enable TPM 2.0 if it’s disabled. It might be labeled as “Intel PTT” or “AMD fTPM,” depending on your processor.
5. Enable Secure Boot:
   • Navigate to the “Boot” section.
   • Look for an option called “Secure Boot” and enable it. You might need to set the “Boot Mode” to “UEFI” for Secure Boot to be available.
6. Save and Exit:
   • After enabling TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, go to the “Exit” menu.
   • Choose “Save Changes and Exit.” Your computer will restart.

Important Notes:

• BIOS Variations: BIOS menus can vary significantly. If you can’t find the exact options mentioned above, consult your motherboard manual or search online for instructions specific to your motherboard model.
• UEFI vs. Legacy: Make sure your system is in UEFI mode, as Secure Boot requires it. You can usually find this setting in the “Boot” section of your BIOS.
• Resetting BIOS: Be careful when changing BIOS settings. Incorrect settings can prevent your computer from booting. If you're unsure, it's best to consult with a professional or refer to your motherboard manual.

Enabling TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot in BIOS is a critical step in resolving the VAN9003 error. These security features are essential for Valorant to run correctly, so ensuring they are properly enabled is key. Remember to take your time and follow the instructions carefully. If you encounter any difficulties, don't hesitate to seek help from online resources or a tech-savvy friend. With a bit of patience and attention to detail, you'll have your system ready to play Valorant in no time.

Verifying Secure Boot is Enabled

After enabling Secure Boot in the BIOS, it's a good idea to verify that it is indeed enabled in Windows. This will give you peace of mind knowing that the setting has been successfully applied. Here’s how you can check:

1. Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog box.
2. Type msinfo32 and press Enter. This command opens the System Information window.
3. Check Secure Boot State:
   • In the System Information window, look for the “Secure Boot State” entry.
   • If Secure Boot is enabled, it will say “Secure Boot State: On.”
   • If Secure Boot is disabled, it will say “Secure Boot State: Off.” If it’s off, you might need to go back to your BIOS settings and double-check that you enabled it correctly. Also, ensure that your system is set to UEFI mode, as Secure Boot requires it.

Verifying Secure Boot is enabled is a simple but important step. It confirms that your system is running with the security features that Valorant requires. If you find that Secure Boot is still disabled after enabling it in BIOS, there might be a few reasons why. One common issue is that the system might not be in UEFI mode. UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) is a modern replacement for the traditional BIOS, and it’s required for Secure Boot to function properly. You can check and change the boot mode in your BIOS settings. Another potential issue is that some older systems might not fully support Secure Boot, or the implementation might be buggy. In such cases, you might need to update your BIOS firmware to the latest version. BIOS updates can often improve compatibility and fix issues with Secure Boot. However, updating the BIOS can be a bit risky, so make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. If you're not comfortable updating the BIOS yourself, it's best to seek help from a professional. By verifying that Secure Boot is enabled, you’re ensuring that your system meets one of the key requirements for Valorant. This can help prevent the VAN9003 error and other compatibility issues. So, take a moment to check the Secure Boot State in the System Information window. It’s a quick and easy way to confirm that everything is set up correctly.

Reinstalling Riot Vanguard

Sometimes, the VAN9003 error can persist even after enabling TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot. In such cases, reinstalling Riot Vanguard, Valorant's anti-cheat system, might help. Here’s how to do it:

1. Uninstall Riot Vanguard:
   • Open Control Panel: Press Windows Key + R, type control panel, and press Enter.
   • Go to Programs and Features: Click on “Uninstall a program” under the “Programs” section.
   • Find Riot Vanguard: Locate “Riot Vanguard” in the list of installed programs.
   • Uninstall: Right-click on Riot Vanguard and select “Uninstall.” Follow the on-screen instructions to uninstall it.
2. Restart Your Computer: After uninstalling Riot Vanguard, restart your computer to ensure that all related files and processes are completely removed.
3. Run Valorant: Launch Valorant. The game should automatically prompt you to reinstall Riot Vanguard.
4. Reinstall Riot Vanguard: Follow the on-screen instructions to reinstall Riot Vanguard. Make sure to allow the installation process to complete without interruption.
5. Restart Your Computer Again: After reinstalling Riot Vanguard, restart your computer one more time. This ensures that the new installation is properly initialized.

Reinstalling Riot Vanguard can often resolve issues that might be causing the VAN9003 error. Sometimes, the anti-cheat system can become corrupted or misconfigured, leading to compatibility problems with the game. By uninstalling and reinstalling Riot Vanguard, you’re essentially giving it a fresh start. This can help ensure that it’s properly configured and compatible with your system. When you uninstall Riot Vanguard, make sure to follow the uninstallation process completely. This includes restarting your computer after the uninstallation to remove any lingering files or processes. Similarly, after reinstalling Riot Vanguard, it’s important to restart your computer again to allow the new installation to be properly initialized. If you encounter any issues during the reinstallation process, such as error messages or installation failures, there might be a few reasons why. One common issue is that your antivirus software might be interfering with the installation. Try temporarily disabling your antivirus software during the reinstallation process to see if that resolves the issue. Another potential issue is that you might not have the necessary permissions to install software on your computer. Make sure you’re logged in as an administrator or have the appropriate permissions to install software. By reinstalling Riot Vanguard, you’re taking a proactive step to ensure that your system is properly configured to play Valorant. This can help prevent the VAN9003 error and other compatibility issues. So, if you’ve tried enabling TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot and are still encountering the error, give reinstalling Riot Vanguard a try. It might just be the solution you need to get back in the game.

Updating Windows

Keeping your Windows operating system up to date is crucial for maintaining system stability and compatibility. Windows Updates often include important security patches and driver updates that can resolve various issues, including the VAN9003 error in Valorant. Here’s how to update Windows:

1. Open Settings: Press Windows Key + I to open the Settings app.
2. Go to Update & Security: Click on “Update & Security.”
3. Check for Updates: Click on the “Check for updates” button. Windows will start scanning for available updates.
4. Install Updates: If Windows finds any updates, it will automatically download and install them. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation process. You might need to restart your computer to apply the updates.

Updating Windows is a simple but effective way to ensure that your system is running smoothly and is compatible with the latest software and games. Windows Updates often include fixes for known issues, improved security features, and updated drivers for your hardware. These updates can help resolve compatibility issues that might be causing the VAN9003 error in Valorant. In addition to installing regular Windows Updates, it’s also a good idea to make sure that your device drivers are up to date. Outdated or incompatible drivers can cause various issues, including game crashes and compatibility problems. You can update your drivers manually by downloading the latest drivers from the manufacturer’s website, or you can use a driver update tool to automate the process. Keeping your system up to date is an ongoing process. It’s a good idea to check for updates regularly and install them as soon as they become available. This will help ensure that your system is running at its best and is protected against the latest security threats. By updating Windows, you’re taking a proactive step to ensure that your system is compatible with Valorant and other games. This can help prevent the VAN9003 error and other compatibility issues. So, make sure to check for updates regularly and install them as soon as they become available. It’s a simple way to keep your system running smoothly and enjoy a better gaming experience.

Contacting Riot Support

If you’ve tried all the above steps and are still encountering the VAN9003 error, it might be time to reach out to Riot Support for assistance. Riot Support can provide personalized guidance and help troubleshoot more complex issues. Here’s how to contact them:

1. Visit Riot Support Website: Go to the official Riot Games Support website.
2. Find Valorant Support: Look for the Valorant section on the support website.
3. Submit a Ticket: Click on the “Submit a ticket” button.
4. Provide Details: Fill out the form with as much detail as possible. Include information about the error message you’re receiving, the steps you’ve already tried, and any other relevant information about your system.
5. Wait for a Response: After submitting your ticket, wait for a response from Riot Support. They will typically respond within a few business days.

Contacting Riot Support is a great way to get personalized help with the VAN9003 error. The support team has access to advanced troubleshooting tools and can provide guidance specific to your system configuration. When you submit a ticket to Riot Support, make sure to provide as much detail as possible. This will help the support team understand the issue and provide the most effective solution. Include information about your operating system, hardware configuration, and any error messages you’re receiving. Also, be sure to describe the steps you’ve already tried to resolve the issue. This will help the support team avoid suggesting solutions that you’ve already attempted. After submitting your ticket, be patient and wait for a response from Riot Support. The support team typically responds within a few business days, but response times can vary depending on the volume of support requests. While you’re waiting for a response, you can also check the Riot Support website for FAQs and troubleshooting guides. These resources might contain information that can help you resolve the issue on your own. By contacting Riot Support, you’re taking a proactive step to get personalized help with the VAN9003 error. The support team is dedicated to helping players resolve technical issues and get back in the game. So, if you’ve tried all the above steps and are still encountering the error, don’t hesitate to reach out to Riot Support for assistance.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! A comprehensive guide to fixing the Valorant VAN9003 error. By following these steps, you should be able to resolve the issue and get back to playing Valorant without any interruptions. Remember to take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and don’t hesitate to seek help if you get stuck. Good luck, and happy gaming!