Alex Ruben
How to Fix Valorant Error Code VAN-79 (2025)
Experiencing the Valorant Error Code VAN-79 can be frustrating, especially when it prevents you from enjoying your game. This error commonly arises due to issues with Riot’s Vanguard anti-cheat system. Fortunately, this guide will walk you through various methods to resolve the VAN-79 error effectively. By following these steps, you can restore your gaming experience and eliminate the error once and for all.
Before starting, ensure that you have administrative access to your PC, as some steps require elevated permissions. Additionally, make sure to save any work or open applications, as you may need to restart your computer throughout the process.
Step 1: Restart Your Computer
As a first and simple step, restart your PC. This can often resolve temporary issues with the Vanguard service or other background processes that may be causing the VAN-79 error. After restarting, check if the error persists.
Step 2: Modify Vanguard Service Settings
1. Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog, then type services.msc and hit Enter.
2. In the Services window, locate the service named VGC.
3. Double-click on the VGC service to open its properties.
4. Set the Startup type to Automatic.
5. Click on Start if the service is not already running, then click OK to save changes.
6. Close the Services window.
Step 3: Allow Vanguard Through Windows Firewall
1. Press Windows + S to open the Search bar and type Allow an app through Windows Firewall, then select it.
2. Click on Change settings.
3. Click on Allow another app… and browse to find the Vanguard installation directory, typically located at: C:\Program Files\Riot Vanguard.
4. Select the Vanguard executable and add it to the list.
5. Ensure both the Private and Public checkboxes are checked for the Vanguard entry.
6. Click OK to apply the changes.
Step 4: Use Command Prompt to Remove Vanguard Services
1. Open the Search bar again and type cmd.
2. Right-click on Command Prompt and select Run as administrator.
3. In the Command Prompt window, enter the following commands one by one and press Enter after each:
sc delete vgc
sc delete vgk
4. After executing these commands, restart your computer.
Step 5: Reinstall Riot Vanguard
1. After restarting your PC, open File Explorer and navigate to C:\Program Files\Riot Vanguard.
2. If the Vanguard folder still exists, try deleting it. You will need to restart your PC if the folder cannot be deleted.
3. Once deleted, launch the Riot Client and allow it to reinstall Vanguard.
4. After the installation, check for any updates needed for Valorant and install them.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
If the steps above do not resolve the issue, consider checking for Windows updates and ensuring your system is up to date. Additionally, temporarily disabling third-party antivirus software can help determine if they are interfering with Vanguard.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you should be able to fix the Valorant Error Code VAN-79 effectively. Restarting your computer, modifying service settings, allowing Vanguard through the firewall, and reinstalling Vanguard are crucial actions in resolving this issue. If you still encounter problems, consider reaching out to Riot’s support for further assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the VAN-79 error?
The VAN-79 error is related to issues with Riot’s Vanguard anti-cheat system, preventing players from accessing Valorant.
How do I know if Vanguard is running correctly?
You can check the Services manager to see if the VGC service is running and set to automatic.
Can I play Valorant without Vanguard?
No, Vanguard must be running for you to play Valorant, as it is essential for anti-cheat measures.