Valorant Error Code VAN 81: What is it and How to fix

Valorant Error Code VAN 81 is a connection-related issue that usually stops the game from launching or kicks you out before you reach the main menu. This error is most often tied to Riot Vanguard or background services failing to communicate properly with Valorant, which can happen after system restarts, Windows updates, or network interruptions. While VAN 81 can look serious at first, it’s usually caused by common system or service conflicts rather than account or server bans. In this guide, we’ll explain what Error Code VAN 81 means, why it happens, and the most effective ways to fix it so you can get back into the game without frustration.

What Is Valorant Error Code VAN 81?

Error Code VAN 81 in Valorant is a connection-related issue that usually appears when the game fails to properly communicate with Riot Vanguard or Valorant’s servers. When this error shows up, it typically prevents the game from launching or disconnects you before you can enter the client. Unlike ban-related errors, VAN 81 is almost always caused by system, network, or security conflicts rather than anything tied to your account.

What Causes Valorant Error Code VAN 81?

Understanding why VAN 81 appears makes fixing it much easier. One of the most common causes is restrictive Windows Firewall settings that block Valorant or Riot Vanguard from accessing the internet or required permissions. When these connections are blocked, the game can’t maintain a stable link to Riot’s servers. Another possible reason is an unstable internet connection, which can interrupt communication between your system and Valorant’s backend services, leading to repeated connection failures. A third frequent cause is an incomplete or corrupted Riot Vanguard installation. If Vanguard isn’t installed correctly or some of its files are missing or damaged, it won’t function as intended, triggering VAN 81 during startup. In most cases, this error comes down to blocked permissions, network instability, or Vanguard not running properly in the background.

How to Fix Valorant Error Code VAN 81

According to Riot’s in-game message, Error Code VAN 81 in Valorant appears when the game fails to maintain a stable connection and asks you to relaunch the client. While that message sounds simple, fixing VAN 81 for good usually requires checking a few system-level settings. The most reliable solutions revolve around Riot Vanguard’s vgc service, Windows Firewall permissions, Vanguard itself, and any VPN software running in the background. Below is a clean breakdown of each fix and how to apply it properly.

Fix the Riot Vanguard (vgc) Service

Start by fully closing Valorant and all Riot-related processes. Exit the Riot client from the system tray, then open Task Manager and end any remaining Riot Client processes. Once that’s done, press Windows + R, type services.msc, and press Enter. In the Services list, locate vgc. If it isn’t running or is set to disabled, open its properties, set the startup type to Automatic, apply the changes, and manually start the service. After that, open msconfig using Windows + R, go to the Services tab, hide all Microsoft services, and make sure vgc is checked and enabled. Restart your PC so the changes take effect.

Allow Valorant and Riot Client Through Windows Firewall

If VAN 81 persists, your firewall may be blocking Valorant or Riot Vanguard. Open Windows Defender Firewall, click Allow an app or feature through the firewall, and check whether Riot Client is allowed on both private and public networks. If it isn’t listed, use Change settings, browse to the Riot Client installation folder, add it manually, and enable it for both network types. This ensures Valorant can communicate with Riot’s servers without being blocked.

Reinstall Riot Vanguard Completely

Corrupted or incomplete Vanguard files are another common cause of VAN 81. To fix this, uninstall Riot Vanguard from Apps & Features or Programs and Features, then restart your computer. After rebooting, launch Valorant and let the client reinstall Vanguard automatically. Once the installation finishes, restart your PC again to make sure Vanguard initializes correctly before launching the game.

Disable or Remove VPN Software

VPNs are known to interfere with Valorant’s connection and Vanguard’s security checks. If you’re using a VPN, turn it off completely before launching the game. If VAN 81 keeps appearing, uninstall the VPN entirely and restart your system. Even inactive VPN services can cause conflicts in the background.

After applying these steps, Valorant should launch normally without the VAN 81 error. In most cases, fixing the vgc service and firewall permissions resolves the issue, while reinstalling Vanguard and removing VPNs handles more stubborn cases.

Conclusion

Error Code VAN 81 in Valorant can be frustrating, but it’s usually caused by fixable system or connection issues rather than anything serious with your account. In most cases, making sure the Riot Vanguard vgc service is running, allowing Valorant through Windows Firewall, and removing software conflicts like VPNs is enough to solve the problem. If needed, a clean reinstall of Riot Vanguard can clear up deeper issues and restore proper communication with the game servers. By following the steps in this guide, you can fix VAN 81 permanently and get back into Valorant without repeated disconnects or launch errors.