Fix Valorant Process Already Running Error

The “Process Already Running” error in Valorant occurs when the game or Riot Client detects a lingering background process, preventing launch. This issue often stems from improper shutdowns, crashes, or corrupted files, blocking access to competitive matches. Common triggers include abrupt closures during updates or system interruptions. Resolving it requires systematic checks of running tasks and system files for optimal performance.

Understanding the Error’s Root Causes

Valorant’s anti-cheat system, Vanguard, and the Riot Client launcher contribute to this problem. When the client fails to terminate fully, it leaves residual processes like RiotClientServices.exe active, mimicking an ongoing session. Other factors include missing dependencies, outdated DLL libraries, or conflicts with temporary cache buildup. Official Riot support lists similar issues under error codes like 33, recommending client restarts as a first step. Community reports confirm these persist across updates, affecting Windows users predominantly.

• Background Processes: Incomplete closures leave executables running invisibly.
• File Corruption: Damaged DLLs in Riot folders trigger detection failures.
• System Conflicts: Overlapping software or startup programs interfere with launches.

Primary Fix: Terminate Processes via Task Manager

The most immediate solution involves using Windows Task Manager to end all Riot-related tasks. This method addresses 80% of cases by clearing stuck instances. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager, navigate to the Processes tab, and locate entries such as Riot Client, RiotClientServices.exe, VALORANT.exe, and VGK.exe.

1. Right-click each Riot process and select “End Task.”
2. Switch to the Details tab for thorough scanning; end any remaining Riot entries.
3. Close Task Manager and relaunch the Riot Client.

If processes reappear immediately, proceed to advanced termination. This approach ensures no hidden threads persist, allowing fresh initialization.

Advanced Command Prompt Termination

For stubborn instances, leverage Command Prompt for forceful closure. Run as administrator: type taskkill /f /im RiotClientServices.exe and press Enter, repeating for other executables like VALORANT-Win64-Shipping.exe. Verify completion with tasklist | findstr Riot. This bypasses Task Manager limitations, targeting services deeply embedded in system memory.

Post-execution, restart your PC to flush remnants, enhancing reliability.

Delete Problematic DLL Files

Corrupted runtime libraries often cause detection errors. Navigate to your Riot Games installation, typically C:\Riot Games\Riot Client, and delete vcruntime140.dll. If on a different drive, adjust the path accordingly. Empty the Recycle Bin, then relaunch. This removes conflicting Visual C++ redistributables, prompting auto-repair on next start. Note: Recent updates may render this less effective; combine with dependency checks.

Repair and Reinstall Riot Client

Download the latest Riot Client installer from playvalorant.com. Sign in, allowing automatic verification and dependency installation. This process replaces missing components like runtimes, resolving deeper corruption. For full reset:

• Uninstall Valorant via Settings > Apps.
• Delete residual folders in C:\Riot Games.
• Reinstall via official site.

Riot’s support emphasizes restarting the client post-repair for error codes tied to initialization failures.

Handle Vanguard Anti-Cheat Conflicts

Vanguard (vgc.exe) must run with elevated privileges. If errors persist, uninstall via C:\Program Files\Riot Vanguard\vgcuninstall.exe, reboot, and let Valorant reinstall it. Codes 44 and 45 specifically reference Vanguard issues, fixed by this cycle. Disable startup conflicts in Task Manager’s Startup tab by right-clicking Riot entries and selecting Disable.

Clear Cache and Temporary Files

Accumulated temp files exacerbate launch issues. Use Disk Cleanup (search in Start menu) targeting Riot folders, or manually delete contents in %temp% and C:\Riot Games\Riot Client\TencentGameAssistant. Follow with a clean boot: msconfig > Services > Hide Microsoft > Disable all, reboot, and test. This isolates third-party interferences.

System-Wide Optimizations

Update Windows and graphics drivers via Device Manager. Run sfc /scannow in admin Command Prompt to repair system files. Ensure .NET Framework and Visual C++ Redistributables are current from Microsoft’s site. For multiplayer stability, verify no VPNs or firewalls block Riot ports (e.g., 7000-8000 UDP).

Prevention Strategies for Future Sessions

Adopt habits like proper game exits via menu, not Alt+F4. Schedule weekly cache clears and monitor Task Manager during updates. Enable Riot Client auto-updates and set launch options to “Run as Administrator” in Properties. These reduce recurrence by 90% per user forums.

When to Contact Riot Support

If fixes fail, submit a ticket via support-valorant.riotgames.com, including error logs from %localappdata%\Riot Games. Reference codes like 33 or 64 for faster triage. Provide system specs and steps attempted.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What triggers the ‘Process Already Running’ error in Valorant?

Lingering background processes from crashes or improper shutdowns.

Does deleting vcruntime140.dll still work in 2026?

It helps some cases, but reinstalling dependencies is more reliable now.

How do I fully uninstall Vanguard?

Run vgcuninstall.exe from its folder and reboot.

Can antivirus cause this error?

Yes; add Riot folders to exclusions.

Is a clean boot necessary?

Only for persistent issues after basic fixes.