TL;DR
- VAN9003 error occurs when Secure Boot or TPM 2.0 security features are disabled on your system
- Access BIOS/UEFI settings to enable Secure Boot and switch from Legacy to UEFI mode if necessary
- Activate TPM 2.0 through Trusted Computing settings in your motherboard’s BIOS configuration
- Update Windows OS and graphics drivers to ensure compatibility with Valorant’s security requirements
- Use Windows 8 compatibility mode or complete reinstallation as last-resort troubleshooting options
Valorant enthusiasts frequently encounter the disruptive VAN9003 error that halts gameplay with a clear notification: “Secure Boot requirements not satisfied.” Riot Games deliberately implemented this security checkpoint to maintain competitive integrity and prevent cheating within their tactical shooter. When either Secure Boot functionality or the Trusted Platform Module (TPM) remains deactivated on your gaming rig, Valorant’s anti-cheat system blocks execution, consistently producing the VAN9003 error message.
Secure Boot represents a fundamental security protocol that guarantees your computer initializes exclusively with manufacturer-verified firmware components. This becomes particularly crucial for Windows 11 users, as both Microsoft’s operating system and Riot’s Vanguard anti-cheat middleware mandate active Secure Boot alongside TPM 2.0 verification. The Trusted Platform Module serves as dedicated hardware safeguarding cryptographic operations and security credential management. Gaming systems lacking these activated protections will inevitably trigger the VAN9003 error upon Valorant launch attempts.

Many players overlook that Secure Boot configuration varies significantly across motherboard manufacturers. ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte, and ASRock each implement unique BIOS interfaces with different terminology for security settings. This diversity often causes confusion when attempting to locate the precise options needed for Valorant compatibility. Understanding your specific motherboard’s BIOS layout becomes essential for efficient troubleshooting.
TPM functionality exists in multiple implementations, including firmware-based (fTPM) and discrete hardware modules. Modern processors from both AMD and Intel integrate firmware TPM capabilities, though some systems require explicit activation through BIOS settings. Knowing which TPM type your system supports can streamline the error resolution process considerably.
To systematically eliminate the VAN9003 error, implement this structured approach beginning with fundamental system configuration adjustments:
Navigate to your computer’s BIOS/UEFI configuration interface during system startup. Typically, this involves repeatedly pressing Delete, F2, or F12 during the initial boot sequence. Once inside, locate the Boot or Security section and verify that Secure Boot is set to Enabled. Many gaming systems default to Legacy or CSM (Compatibility Support Module) mode, which conflicts with Valorant’s requirements. Switching to UEFI-only mode often resolves the underlying compatibility issue. If Secure Boot already shows as active but the error persists, experiment with toggling it off and on again to reset the configuration.
Within your BIOS environment, search for Trusted Computing options, frequently found under Advanced or Security tabs. Ensure that Security Device Support displays as Enabled, which activates TPM 2.0 functionality. Some motherboard manufacturers label this setting as “PTT” (Platform Trust Technology) for Intel systems or “fTPM” (firmware TPM) for AMD platforms. Correct identification of your specific platform’s terminology is crucial for successful configuration.

Maintain current versions of your Windows operating system and graphics card drivers through regular updates. NVIDIA GeForce Experience, AMD Adrenalin Software, or Intel Graphics Command Center should be configured for automatic driver notifications. Outdated drivers frequently introduce compatibility conflicts with Valorant’s security framework, inadvertently triggering the VAN9003 error. For comprehensive driver management, consider using DDU (Display Driver Uninstaller) to perform clean installations when persistent issues occur.
When standard solutions prove ineffective, experiment with compatibility mode execution. Right-click the Valorant shortcut, select Properties, navigate to the Compatibility tab, and choose “Run this program in compatibility mode for Windows 8.” This workaround sometimes bypasses version-checking mechanisms that incorrectly flag modern systems as incompatible. However, this should be considered a temporary solution while addressing the underlying security configuration.
As an ultimate troubleshooting measure, complete reinstallation of both Valorant and your graphics drivers may become necessary. This nuclear option eliminates corrupted game files or conflicting driver components that might perpetuate the error condition. Begin by using Windows’ Apps & Features to uninstall Valorant, then employ DDU for graphics driver removal before reinstalling both components fresh.
When fundamental corrections fail to resolve the VAN9003 error, advanced diagnostic procedures become necessary. Begin by verifying that Windows itself recognizes your security configuration as compliant. Open Windows Security > Device Security > Core Isolation details and confirm that “Security Processor” shows as available. If this reports errors, your TPM configuration requires additional attention at the hardware level.
Motherboard firmware variations significantly impact troubleshooting effectiveness. Consult your specific motherboard manual or manufacturer’s support website for precise BIOS navigation instructions. ASUS boards typically house Secure Boot under the Boot tab, while MSI systems often position it within Settings > Advanced. Gigabyte motherboards frequently utilize the BIOS Features section, and ASRock systems may label it as Security or Boot configurations. Documenting your specific motherboard model streamlines this research process.
As an absolute last resort, consider reverting to Windows 10 if persistent VAN9003 errors make Windows 11 unusable for Valorant. However, this drastic measure should only follow exhaustive troubleshooting, as Microsoft will eventually phase out Windows 10 support. Before downgrading, create complete system backups and ensure you have legitimate Windows 10 installation media available. Remember that future game updates may eventually require Windows 11, making this a temporary rather than permanent solution.
Preventing future VAN9003 occurrences involves maintaining consistent system security settings. Avoid BIOS resets unless absolutely necessary, and when updating motherboard firmware, document your security configurations beforehand. Regular system health checks through Windows Security Center can preemptively identify TPM or Secure Boot issues before they impact gameplay. For competitive players relying on consistent Valorant access, these preventative measures prove invaluable for uninterrupted gaming sessions.
Understanding how these security requirements integrate with broader gaming optimization can enhance your overall experience. Our Complete Guide to modern gaming setups provides additional context for system configuration, while weapon-specific optimization in our Weapons Unlock guide demonstrates how hardware settings impact gameplay performance across different titles.
Action Checklist
- Access BIOS/UEFI during boot (Delete/F2/F12) and enable Secure Boot in Boot/Security section
- Switch BIOS mode from Legacy/CSM to UEFI-only if available in boot options
- Enable TPM 2.0 via Trusted Computing/Security Device Support (labeled PTT for Intel, fTPM for AMD)
- Update Windows OS and graphics drivers through manufacturer utilities or Windows Update
- Test Valorant in Windows 8 compatibility mode via executable properties if error persists
- Perform clean reinstall of Valorant and graphics drivers using DDU if previous steps fail
No reproduction without permission:GameCDjnh » How to Resolve the VAN9003 Error in Valorant on Windows 11 Comprehensive guide to fix Valorant VAN9003 error with BIOS settings, security requirements, and troubleshooting strategies
