Riot Games’ Vanguard anti-cheat software enforces strict security requirements, including TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot, primarily on Windows 11 systems. This error prevents launching titles like Valorant and League of Legends, displaying messages such as “This build of Vanguard requires TPM version 2.0 and Secure Boot to be enabled in order to play” or error code VAN9001. Enabling these features resolves the issue by meeting Vanguard’s trusted computing standards.
Understanding TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot Requirements
**Trusted Platform Module (TPM) 2.0** is a hardware-based security chip that enhances system integrity by storing encryption keys, passwords, and certificates securely. It verifies the boot process and protects against tampering, crucial for anti-cheat systems like Vanguard. **Secure Boot** ensures only trusted software loads during startup, preventing malware from injecting into the boot sequence. Vanguard mandates both for Windows 11 to combat cheating effectively.
These requirements stem from Windows 11’s baseline security features, but Vanguard applies them rigorously even on compatible hardware. Without them, the client detects an untrusted environment and blocks access.
Verify Your System’s TPM 2.0 Compatibility
Before adjustments, confirm hardware support:
- Press Windows key + R, type
tpm.msc, and hit Enter. - Check Status: “The TPM is ready for use” indicates enabled and compatible.
- Verify Specification Version: Must be 2.0.
If it shows “TPM cannot be found” or version 1.2, your motherboard supports it via firmware (fTPM for AMD, PTT for Intel) but needs BIOS activation. Most modern CPUs (Intel 8th gen+, AMD Ryzen 2000+) include this capability.
| Status Message | Meaning | Action Needed |
|---|---|---|
| The TPM is ready for use (2.0) | Fully compatible and enabled | Check Secure Boot |
| TPM cannot be found | Disabled or unsupported | Enable in BIOS |
| Specification Version 1.2 | Outdated version | Upgrade hardware or use fTPM/PTT |
Checking Secure Boot Status
To assess Secure Boot:
- Search for System Information in the Start menu and open it.
- Navigate to System Summary.
- Locate Secure Boot State: “On” means enabled; “Off” or “Unsupported” requires BIOS changes.
If off, proceed to BIOS configuration. Note: Legacy BIOS mode (CSM) often disables Secure Boot; switch to UEFI.
Step-by-Step Guide to Enable TPM 2.0 in BIOS/UEFI
Accessing BIOS varies by manufacturer:
- General keys: Del, F2, F10, F12 during boot.
- Dell: F2.
- HP: F10.
- ASUS/MSI/Gigabyte: Del.
- Lenovo: F1 or Novo button.
Once inside:
- Navigate to Advanced or Boot tab.
- Find Security, Trusted Computing, or Authentication.
- Enable Security Device Support or AMD fTPM/Intel PTT.
- Select TPM 2.0 as the device (fTPM for AMD, PTT for Intel).
- Save (F10) and exit.
AMD Example: Settings > Security > Trusted Computing > Security Device Support: Enabled > TPM Device Selection: Firmware TPM.
Intel Example: PCH-FW Configuration > PTT: Enabled.
Activating Secure Boot in BIOS/UEFI
After TPM:
- Go to Boot tab.
- Set Boot Mode to UEFI (disable CSM/Legacy if present).
- Enable Secure Boot. Set mode to Standard or Windows UEFI if options appear.
- Save and reboot.
Re-verify in Windows using tpm.msc and System Information. Vanguard should now launch without errors.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If problems persist:
- Black screen post-BIOS: Re-enter BIOS, disable Secure Boot temporarily, then re-enable after TPM setup.
- TPM still undetected: Update BIOS firmware from manufacturer site. Ensure CPU supports TPM 2.0.
- VAL 51 or connection errors: Often tied to these settings; full enable fixes them.
- Windows 10 users: Less common, but enable if error appears. Vanguard may enforce selectively.
For MSI boards, fTPM and Secure Boot are separate; enable both explicitly.
Alternative Fixes and Workarounds
Rarely, software tweaks help:
- Run Command Prompt as admin:
bcdedit /set {0} securebootpe yes. - Reinstall Vanguard: Uninstall via Apps, delete Riot Vanguard folder, reinstall game.
- Disable virtualization-based security temporarily (Recovery > Advanced).
Hardware upgrades needed only for pre-2018 systems without fTPM/PTT support.
Why Riot Enforces These Security Measures
Vanguard operates at kernel level for real-time cheat detection, necessitating a secure foundation. TPM 2.0 provides cryptographic attestation, while Secure Boot chains trust from firmware. This aligns with Microsoft’s Windows 11 standards, reducing cheat development circumvention. Players benefit from fairer matches, though it requires one-time setup.
Preventing Future Vanguard Errors
- Keep BIOS updated.
- Avoid disabling security features.
- Monitor Riot patch notes for anti-cheat updates.
- Use official Riot support for persistent issues.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Does this apply to Windows 10?
A: Primarily Windows 11, but Vanguard may require it on Win10 too.
Q: Will enabling TPM affect performance?
A: No significant impact; it’s lightweight security.
Q: What if my PC lacks TPM hardware?
A: Use fTPM (AMD) or PTT (Intel) in BIOS; upgrade motherboard otherwise.
Q: Can I play without these?
A: No, Vanguard blocks until compliant.
Q: How to revert changes?
A: Re-enter BIOS, disable options, save.
References
References
- Valorant Fix: This Build Of Vanguard Requires TPM Version 2.0 — YouTube (Riot Games context). 2023.
- How to Fix Valorant Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 Error, Windows 11 — YouTube. 2023.
- How to Fix Error VAN9001 by Enabling TPM 2.0 (Win 11 Only) — Riot Games Support. 2024-01-01. https://support-leagueoflegends.riotgames.com/hc/en-us/articles/24170417829651
- Compatible TPM Cannot be Found Even Though It’s On — Microsoft Learn. 2023. https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/answers/questions/4335114
- How To Fix Valorant TPM Version 2.0 Error — YouTube. 2023.