Are you getting the Valorant Ene.sys incompatible software error while launching the game? This error usually appears with a Vanguard message saying “Incompatible Software: ene.sys”, which prevents Valorant from starting properly.
Although the error looks serious, you can fix it easily by following the right steps. In this guide, you’ll learn why the ene.sys error occurs and how to fix it safely and permanently.
What Is Ene.sys in Valorant?
Before fixing the issue, it’s important to understand what’s causing it.
ene.sys is a driver commonly associated with:
- RGB control software
- Motherboard utilities (ASUS, MSI, Gigabyte tools)
- Hardware monitoring apps
However, Riot Vanguard blocks ene.sys because it can run at kernel level. As a result, Valorant treats it as incompatible software.
Common Causes of Valorant Ene.sys Error
In most cases, the error occurs due to:
- RGB or motherboard utility software
- Old hardware monitoring drivers
- Incompatible kernel-level drivers
- Vanguard security restrictions
- Outdated system drivers
Therefore, removing or disabling the conflicting driver usually fixes the issue.
Fix 1: Uninstall RGB and Motherboard Utility Software (Recommended)
First of all, remove software that installs ene.sys.
Common programs to uninstall:
- ASUS Aura Sync
- MSI Dragon Center
- MSI Mystic Light
- Gigabyte RGB Fusion
- ASRock Polychrome
- EVGA Precision
- NZXT CAM (older versions)
Steps:
- Press Windows + R, type
appwiz.cpl, press Enter - Uninstall RGB or motherboard utility software
- Restart your PC
- Launch Valorant
💡 This fix works for most players.
Fix 2: Delete Ene.sys Manually
If uninstalling software doesn’t remove ene.sys, delete it manually.
Steps:
- Press Windows + E
- Go to:
C:\Windows\System32\drivers - Find ene.sys
- Right-click → Delete
- Restart your PC
⚠️ If Windows blocks deletion, try this in Safe Mode.
Fix 3: Disable Ene.sys Using Command Prompt
Alternatively, you can disable the driver instead of deleting it.
Steps:
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator
- Type:
sc delete ene - Press Enter
- Restart your PC
As a result, Windows stops loading the ene.sys driver.
Fix 4: Update BIOS and Motherboard Drivers
Sometimes, outdated motherboard firmware causes conflicts.
Steps:
- Visit your motherboard manufacturer’s website
- Download the latest BIOS update
- Update chipset and system drivers
- Restart PC and open Valorant
⚠️ Follow BIOS update instructions carefully.
Fix 5: Reinstall Riot Vanguard
If Vanguard itself is corrupted, reinstalling it helps.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R, type
appwiz.cpl - Uninstall Riot Vanguard
- Restart your PC
- Launch Valorant (Vanguard reinstalls automatically)
- Restart again when prompted
Fix 6: Perform a Clean Boot
If you’re unsure which software causes the conflict, try a clean boot.
Steps:
- Press Windows + R, type
msconfig - Go to Services
- Check Hide all Microsoft services
- Click Disable all
- Restart PC
- Launch Valorant
If Valorant works, re-enable services one by one to find the culprit.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is ene.sys in Valorant?
Ene.sys is a driver used by RGB and hardware utilities that Vanguard blocks for security reasons.
Is ene.sys a virus?
No. However, Vanguard treats it as incompatible software.
Can I keep RGB software and play Valorant?
In most cases, no. You must uninstall or disable the conflicting driver.
Will deleting ene.sys damage my PC?
No. It only disables RGB or monitoring features.
Does Riot Vanguard always block ene.sys?
Yes. Vanguard blocks kernel-level drivers it doesn’t trust.
Conclusion
The Valorant ene.sys incompatible software error occurs because Riot Vanguard blocks certain hardware drivers for security reasons. Fortunately, you can fix the issue by uninstalling RGB software, deleting ene.sys, or reinstalling Vanguard.
Once removed, Valorant launches normally without errors.
🎯 Jump back into Valorant and play without Vanguard interruptions!
