Running into error codes during your Valorant Download can be frustrating, especially when all you want to do is jump into the action. Luckily, most issues are easy to fix once you know what they mean. This comprehensive guide from FreedomX will help you identify, understand, and solve the most common Valorant download error codes so you can complete your installation smoothly and start playing without interruptions.
Why Valorant Download Errors Happen
The Valorant Download relies on multiple services — Riot Client, Riot servers, and your local system settings. If any one of these encounters a problem, an error code appears. These can be caused by:
- Unstable or slow internet connection
- Riot Client cache corruption
- Firewall or antivirus interference
- Outdated system or network drivers
- Vanguard anti-cheat issues
Now, let’s look at what each common Valorant Download error code means and how to fix it.
Common Valorant Download Error Codes and Their Fixes
Error Code VAN 68 — Connection Problem
This means your Riot Client can’t connect properly to Valorant’s servers.
Fix:
- Restart your router or switch to a wired connection.
- Run the Riot Client as Administrator.
- If you’re using a VPN, disable it.
- Restart your PC and retry your Valorant Download.
Error Code VAN 81 — Vanguard Not Running
This appears when Riot’s anti-cheat system (Vanguard) isn’t active or fails to start during your Valorant Download.
Fix:
- Press Windows + R, type
services.msc, and press Enter. - Find vgc, right-click, and select Start.
- Restart your PC and open the Riot Client again.
If it still doesn’t work, uninstall Vanguard from “Add or Remove Programs,” then relaunch the Riot Client to reinstall it automatically.
Error Code VAN 9001 — Secure Boot Disabled
This issue affects many Windows 11 users during the Valorant Download or launch.
Fix:
- Enter your BIOS by restarting your PC and pressing Del or F2.
- Navigate to Boot Settings and enable Secure Boot.
- Save changes and restart your system.
Afterward, Vanguard will recognize your system as compliant, and your Valorant Download can proceed.
Error Code 7 — Server Connection Failed
This usually happens when Riot’s servers are under maintenance or your account can’t connect properly.
Fix:
- Check Riot’s official service status in the Riot Client.
- Log out of the Riot Client, then log back in.
- Restart your router to refresh your connection.
If the Valorant Download still won’t resume, wait for a short time — server issues are often temporary.
Error Code 31 — Player Name Info Error
This one occurs when Riot’s servers fail to fetch your player data during the Valorant Download or login process.
Fix:
- Log out of the Riot Client and close it completely.
- Reopen the Riot Client as Administrator.
- Wait 5–10 minutes and try again.
Error Code VAN 128 — Vanguard Driver Issue
This error occurs when Vanguard’s driver is corrupted or not properly installed.
Fix:
- Uninstall Vanguard via Control Panel → Programs and Features.
- Restart your PC.
- Open the Riot Client again — Vanguard will reinstall automatically during your Valorant Download.
Error Code 1 — Riot Client Installation Issue
This indicates that the Riot Client encountered a general error during your Valorant Download.
Fix:
- Close the Riot Client.
- Press Windows + R, type
%localappdata%, and press Enter. - Delete the Riot Games folder.
- Restart your PC and download the Riot Client again from the official website.
Error Code 57 — Vanguard Not Initialized
This issue happens when Vanguard fails to start up before the game launches.
Fix:
- Restart your PC.
- If the problem persists, reinstall Vanguard using the Riot Client.
- Once done, retry the Valorant Download or game launch.
Error Code 128 — Anti-Cheat Not Responding
Vanguard may not be running properly or could be blocked by antivirus software.
Fix:
- Disable antivirus temporarily and whitelist the Riot Client.
- Restart the vgc service using the Services menu.
- Run both Valorant and Riot Client as Administrator.
After this, your Valorant Download should continue without issues.
General Fixes for Any Valorant Download Error
If your issue doesn’t match a specific code, you can still try these universal solutions to fix your Valorant Download:
1. Restart Everything
Close the Riot Client, restart your PC and router, and try again. A fresh connection solves many temporary issues.
2. Check Storage Space
Ensure you have at least 30–40 GB of free space before attempting the Valorant Download. Low storage can cause installation to fail.
3. Clear Cache Files
Old files can conflict with new updates. Go to %localappdata% and delete the Riot Client folder, then relaunch the installer.
4. Disable VPNs and Proxies
VPNs may reroute data through distant servers, causing your Valorant Download to fail or slow down. Disable them while downloading.
5. Update Network Drivers
Outdated drivers can lead to connection issues during the Valorant Download. Open Device Manager, right-click your adapter, and select Update Driver.
6. Allow Riot Client Through Firewall
Go to Windows Security → Firewall & Network Protection → Allow an App Through Firewall, and make sure both Riot Client and Valorant are allowed for both private and public networks.
When to Reinstall Riot Client
If none of these fixes work, you may need to reinstall the Riot Client completely. Uninstall it, restart your PC, and redownload the official installer from Riot Games. This resolves most persistent Valorant Download issues by removing corrupted files.
Preventing Future Valorant Download Errors
Here are a few tips to ensure smooth downloads in the future:
- Keep Windows and drivers updated regularly.
- Don’t interrupt the Valorant Download process midway.
- Avoid running heavy apps like YouTube or torrents while downloading.
- Keep Vanguard active and up to date.
Conclusion
Error codes during your Valorant Download can be annoying, but most are easy to fix with a few quick steps. Whether it’s connection issues, Vanguard problems, or corrupted files, following this guide ensures your download gets back on track. Always stick to Riot’s official tools and keep your system updated for a seamless experience. At FreedomX, we’re dedicated to helping gamers troubleshoot smarter — follow these solutions, and your Valorant Download will be complete before you know it.
