Last updated: March 5, 2026
Valorant may show connection errors like "Valorant has encountered a connection error", Error Code VAN 1, VAN 68, or VAN 84. You might be unable to log in, experience high ping during matches, or get disconnected frequently.
Riot Vanguard issues: The anti-cheat system may need restarting.
Internet connection: Unstable network causes connection errors.
Firewall blocking: Windows Firewall or antivirus may block Valorant.
Server issues: Riot Games servers may be under maintenance.
DNS problems: Incorrect DNS settings can prevent connections.
• Right-click the Vanguard icon in the system tray and select "Exit".
• Restart your computer (Vanguard requires a reboot).
• Launch Valorant after restarting.
• Visit status.riotgames.com and select Valorant.
• Check if there are server issues in your region.
• If servers are down, wait for Riot to fix the problem.
• Open Windows Firewall > Allow an App Through Firewall.
• Make sure Valorant and Riot Vanguard are both allowed.
• Add them manually if they're not in the list.
• Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
• Type ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.
• Type ipconfig /release then ipconfig /renew.
• Restart your computer.
• Connect your PC directly to the router with ethernet.
• This reduces ping and improves connection stability.
• Close other bandwidth-heavy applications.
• Uninstall Riot Vanguard first: Settings > Apps > Riot Vanguard > Uninstall.
• Then uninstall Valorant.
• Download and install Valorant fresh from playvalorant.com.
• Restart your computer before launching.
If connection errors persist, submit a ticket at support-valorant.riotgames.com. Include your error code, region, and network diagnostics.
Q: What does Error VAN 1 mean?
A: VAN 1 usually means Riot Vanguard isn't running. Restart your computer to start Vanguard automatically, then launch Valorant.
Q: Why is my Valorant ping so high?
A: High ping can be caused by Wi-Fi, network congestion, or distance from servers. Use ethernet, close background apps, and select the closest server region.
Q: Can I play Valorant without Vanguard?
A: No, Riot Vanguard anti-cheat is required. It starts at boot and must be running for Valorant to launch.
Q: Does VPN help with Valorant connection issues?
A: Usually not. VPNs add latency. However, if your ISP has poor routing, a gaming VPN might help. Note that some VPNs may trigger Vanguard restrictions.