How To Fix Error VAN 185 In League of Legends

Error VAN 185 in League of Legends can be frustrating, especially when it prevents you from logging in or starting a match just as you’re ready to play. This error is usually linked to Riot’s Vanguard anti-cheat system or a connection issue between the client and Riot’s services. While it may look serious at first, VAN 185 is a common problem and can be fixed in most cases with a few simple steps. In this guide, we’ll explain what Error VAN 185 means, why it happens, and walk you through the most effective fixes to get League of Legends running smoothly again.

What causes Error VAN 185 In League of Legends?

Error VAN 185 in League of Legends is usually caused by a problem with Riot Vanguard or a failed connection between your system and Riot’s servers. In most cases, the Vanguard anti-cheat service isn’t running properly, is blocked at startup, or fails to initialize after a system change or update. This can happen if Vanguard services are disabled, corrupted, or stopped by antivirus software, firewall rules, or background programs.

Another common cause is network-related issues. An unstable internet connection, VPN usage, DNS problems, or temporary server outages on Riot’s side can interrupt communication and trigger VAN 185. System-level issues can also play a role, such as outdated Windows versions, missing security updates, or permission conflicts that prevent Vanguard from launching correctly. While the error looks intimidating, it’s typically caused by software conflicts or service interruptions rather than a serious account or hardware issue.

How to Fix League of Legends Error VAN 185

Error VAN 185 in League of Legends is usually tied to Riot Vanguard not starting correctly or losing connection with Riot’s services. The good news is that this error is almost always fixable with a few system-level checks and adjustments.

Restart Riot Vanguard and Your PC

Start with the simplest solution. Fully close League of Legends and the Riot Client, then restart your computer. Vanguard loads at system startup, so a fresh reboot often fixes temporary service failures that cause VAN 185.

Make Sure Riot Vanguard Is Running

After rebooting, press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter. Look for vgc in the list. If it’s stopped, right-click it, open Properties, set the startup type to Automatic, apply the changes, and start the service. Once it’s running, relaunch the game.

Disable VPNs and Conflicting Software

VPNs, network optimizers, and some antivirus tools can interfere with Vanguard’s connection. Temporarily disable any VPNs or security software, then try launching League again. If the game works, add Riot Vanguard and the Riot Client to your antivirus and firewall exceptions.

Reinstall Riot Vanguard

If Vanguard files are corrupted, a clean reinstall can solve the issue. Uninstall Riot Vanguard from Windows Apps & Features, restart your PC, then launch League of Legends. Vanguard will reinstall automatically and reinitialize with the correct permissions.

Check Windows Updates

Outdated or partially installed Windows updates can prevent Vanguard from running properly. Open Windows Update, install any pending updates, and restart your system. Vanguard relies on modern Windows security components, so staying updated matters.

Reset Your Network Connection

Open Command Prompt as administrator and run ipconfig /flushdns, then restart your PC. This clears cached network data that may be blocking Riot’s servers and causing connection-related Vanguard errors.

Contact Riot Support if the Error Persists

If none of the fixes above work, submit a ticket to Riot Support. VAN 185 can occasionally be caused by account-specific or regional server issues that only Riot can resolve on their end.

FAQs

What does VAN 185 mean in League of Legends?

VAN 185 is a Riot Vanguard error that usually appears when the anti-cheat system fails to start correctly or loses connection with Riot’s services while launching League of Legends.

Can a VPN cause Error VAN 185?

Yes, VPNs often interfere with Riot Vanguard’s connection and can trigger VAN 185. Disabling or uninstalling your VPN usually resolves the issue.

Do I need to reinstall League of Legends to fix VAN 185?

In most cases, reinstalling the entire game isn’t necessary. Reinstalling Riot Vanguard alone is usually enough to fix the error.

Why does VAN 185 keep coming back after restarting?

If the error returns, it may be caused by disabled Vanguard services, outdated Windows files, or security software blocking Vanguard in the background.

Is Error VAN 185 a server-side issue?

Sometimes it can be, especially during maintenance or outages. If the error persists after troubleshooting, checking Riot’s server status or contacting support is recommended.

Conclusion

Error VAN 185 in League of Legends is usually tied to Riot Vanguard not running or communicating properly with your system. While the error can be frustrating, it’s rarely permanent and can be fixed by checking Vanguard services, disabling conflicting software, updating Windows, or reinstalling Riot Vanguard. Taking the time to go through each fix step by step will help you identify what’s causing the problem on your setup. Once Vanguard is running correctly, League of Legends should launch without issues, letting you get back into the game without further interruptions.