How to Fix Vanguard Error VAN 68? [ 7 Solutions]

If you’re an avid player of games like “Valorant” by Riot Games, you might have encountered the error code “VAN 68” when trying to start the game. This error can be frustrating, as it prevents you from joining the game. So, what exactly causes this error, and how can you fix it? In this detailed guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Vanguard Error VAN 68 and provide step-by-step solutions to fix this issue.

This error code (Vanguard Error VAN 68) usually appears when there is an issue with the Riot Vanguard anti-cheat system. The error can be caused by various factors, such as system settings, software conflicts, or connectivity issues. Understanding the root cause is the first step towards fixing it. In this article, we will walk you through the common reasons behind this error and offer multiple solutions to get you back into the game as quickly as possible.

What is Vanguard Error VAN 68?

Vanguard Error VAN 68 is related to Riot Games’ anti-cheat software called Vanguard. Vanguard is designed to protect games like “Valorant” from cheating and hacking.

When the system detects an issue that it perceives as a threat or conflict, it may block access to the game, resulting in the VAN 68 error. The message typically suggests that Vanguard has not initialized correctly, indicating a problem that needs to be addressed before you can play.

What Causes Vanguard Error VAN 68 to appear?

1. System Services Disabled: Vanguard requires certain Windows services to be enabled and running. If these services are disabled, you might encounter this error.
2. Driver Issues: Outdated or incompatible drivers can interfere with Vanguard’s operation.
3. Software Conflicts: Other software, particularly those with high system privileges, can conflict with Vanguard.
4. Connectivity Problems: Issues with your internet connection or network settings can also trigger the error.
5. Corrupted Vanguard Installation: Sometimes, the Vanguard software itself may become corrupted and need a fresh installation.

Step-by-Step Solutions to Fix Vanguard Error VAN 68

1. Restart Your PC

The simplest solution is often the most effective. Restarting your computer can resolve temporary glitches or conflicts that might be causing the error.

Steps:

1. Save any open work and close all applications.
2. Click on the “Start” menu and select “Restart”.
3. Once your PC restarts, try launching “Valorant” again.

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2. Ensure Vanguard and Necessary Services are Running

Vanguard needs to be running properly, along with certain Windows services.

Steps:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
2. Go to the “Services” tab.
3. Look for “vgc” and “vgk” services and ensure they are running.
4. If they are not, right-click on them and select “Start”.

Additionally, make sure the following services are running:

• Windows Management Instrumentation (winmgmt)
• Remote Procedure Call (RPC)
• Base Filtering Engine (BFE)
• Windows Defender Firewall

3. Update Your Drivers

Outdated drivers, especially graphics and network drivers, can cause Vanguard to malfunction.

Steps:

1. Press Win + X and select “Device Manager”.
2. Expand the categories for “Display adapters” and “Network adapters”.
3. Right-click on your devices and select “Update driver”.
4. Follow the prompts to search for updated drivers automatically.
5. Restart your PC after updating the drivers.

4. Disable Conflicting Software

Certain software might conflict with Vanguard. This includes other anti-virus or anti-cheat programs.

Steps:

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open the Task Manager.
2. Go to the “Processes” tab and look for any security software or programs with high system privileges.
3. Right-click on these processes and select “End task”.
4. Alternatively, temporarily disable your anti-virus software from its settings.

5. Reinstall Riot Vanguard

If Vanguard itself is corrupted, reinstalling it can solve the issue.

Steps:

1. Press Win + R, type appwiz.cpl, and press Enter to open the Programs and Features window.
2. Find “Riot Vanguard” in the list, right-click on it, and select “Uninstall”.
3. After uninstalling, restart your PC.
4. Open the “Valorant” client, which will prompt you to reinstall Vanguard.
5. Follow the prompts to reinstall Vanguard and restart your PC again.

6. Check Your Network Settings

Ensure your network settings are configured correctly.

Steps:

1. Press Win + R, type cmd, and press Enter to open Command Prompt.
2. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
   • ipconfig /flushdns
   • ipconfig /release
   • ipconfig /renew
   • netsh winsock reset
3. Restart your PC.

7. Contact Riot Games Support

If none of the above solutions work, it may be a more complex issue that requires professional assistance.

Steps:

1. Go to the Riot Games Support website.
2. Log in with your Riot account.
3. Submit a ticket detailing your issue, including the steps you have already taken to try to resolve it.
4. Attach any relevant screenshots or logs.

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Conclusion

Vanguard Error VAN 68 can be a frustrating barrier to enjoying your favorite Riot Games titles. However, by following the steps outlined above, you can often resolve the issue quickly and get back to gaming. Whether it’s restarting your PC, updating drivers, or checking your network settings, each step is designed to tackle the common causes of this error. If all else fails, contacting Riot Games Support is your best bet for a solution. Happy gaming!

Additional Tips

• Regularly update your Windows OS and drivers to prevent compatibility issues.
• Avoid running multiple anti-cheat or security programs simultaneously.
• Ensure that your system meets the minimum requirements for running Riot Games and Vanguard.

By maintaining your system and following these best practices, you can minimize the chances of encountering errors like VAN 68 in the future.