Many Valorant players encounter the frustrating error:

“This build of Vanguard requires TPM version 2.0 and Secure Boot to be enabled”

This issue prevents the Riot anti-cheat system (Vanguard) from launching the game. TPM (Trusted Platform Module) and Secure Boot are security features in modern PCs that ensure your system is running trusted software.

Fortunately, this guide will help you understand the causes and provide step-by-step solutions to fix the error on Windows 11 and 10.


Common Causes of the TPM & Secure Boot Error

  1. TPM 2.0 is disabled in BIOS/UEFI – Vanguard requires TPM for hardware-level security.
  2. Secure Boot is disabled – A security feature that validates boot files.
  3. Outdated BIOS/UEFI firmware – Older firmware may not support TPM 2.0.
  4. Incompatible hardware – Older motherboards may lack TPM 2.0 or Secure Boot support.
  5. Windows not updated – Some security features depend on updated Windows versions.

Identifying the cause helps apply the correct fix efficiently.


Fix 1: Check TPM Status in Windows

  1. Press Windows + R → tpm.msc → Enter.
  2. Look for TPM Manufacturer Information.
  3. If it says The TPM is ready for use and version 2.0, TPM is enabled.
  4. If TPM is missing or disabled, proceed to enable it in BIOS/UEFI.

💡 TPM 2.0 is mandatory for Vanguard on modern systems.


Fix 2: Enable TPM 2.0 in BIOS/UEFI

  1. Restart your PC → enter BIOS/UEFI (Del, F2, or F10 during boot).
  2. Navigate to Security → TPM / PTT / fTPM.
  3. Set TPM to Enabled (Intel PTT or AMD fTPM depending on CPU).
  4. Save changes → Exit BIOS → boot into Windows.

This ensures Vanguard can detect TPM 2.0.


Fix 3: Enable Secure Boot in BIOS/UEFI

  1. Enter BIOS/UEFI → go to Boot → Secure Boot.
  2. Change setting to Enabled.
  3. Save and exit BIOS → restart PC.

💡 Secure Boot prevents unauthorized boot software and is required by Vanguard.


Fix 4: Update BIOS/UEFI Firmware

Outdated firmware may not support TPM 2.0 or Secure Boot properly:

  1. Visit your motherboard manufacturer’s website.
  2. Download the latest BIOS/UEFI update for your model.
  3. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to update.
  4. Re-enable TPM and Secure Boot after update.

Firmware updates often resolve compatibility issues with Vanguard.


Fix 5: Verify Windows Version

  1. Press Windows + R → winver → Enter.
  2. Ensure your system runs Windows 10 version 1809 or higher or Windows 11.
  3. If outdated, go to Settings → Update & Security → Windows Update → Check for updates.

💡 Vanguard requires modern Windows with TPM 2.0 support.


Fix 6: Clean Boot Windows

Conflicting software may prevent Vanguard from detecting TPM/Secure Boot:

  1. Press Windows + R → msconfig → Enter.
  2. Under Services → Hide all Microsoft services → Disable all.
  3. Go to Startup → Open Task Manager → Disable all startup items.
  4. Restart PC and try launching Valorant.

A clean boot ensures no background software interferes with Vanguard.


Fix 7: Reinstall Vanguard and Valorant

  1. Uninstall Valorant and Riot Vanguard completely.
  2. Download the latest installer from the official Valorant website.
  3. Install Valorant → restart PC → launch the game.

💡 A fresh installation ensures Vanguard can detect TPM and Secure Boot properly.


Fix 8: Enable Virtualization (Optional)

For some systems, enabling virtualization improves Vanguard detection:

  1. Enter BIOS → go to Advanced → Virtualization Technology / VT-x / AMD-V.
  2. Set to Enabled → Save and Exit.

This is optional but can help with compatibility on certain PCs.


Fix 9: Contact Riot Support

If the error persists:

  1. Visit Riot Games Support → Submit a ticket.
  2. Provide system info, Windows version, TPM version, and BIOS settings.
  3. Follow their guidance for advanced troubleshooting.

💡 Riot support can help if your hardware is compatible but Vanguard still fails.


Fix 10: Upgrade Hardware (If Necessary)

If your PC is older and lacks TPM 2.0 or Secure Boot:

  1. Upgrade your motherboard/CPU to a modern model supporting TPM 2.0.
  2. Some motherboards allow adding a TPM 2.0 module separately.

Hardware upgrades ensure long-term compatibility with Vanguard and modern Windows security features.


Additional Tips

  • Always backup BIOS settings before making changes.
  • Enable Windows updates to keep security features functional.
  • Avoid using unofficial Vanguard versions; always download from Riot’s official site.
  • Restart PC after making any BIOS or Windows configuration changes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is TPM 2.0?
A1: TPM (Trusted Platform Module) is a hardware-based security feature that stores encryption keys and validates system integrity.

Q2: Why does Valorant require Secure Boot?
A2: Secure Boot prevents unauthorized programs from running during startup, ensuring Vanguard’s anti-cheat system works correctly.

Q3: Can I play Valorant without TPM 2.0?
A3: No, Vanguard requires TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot on supported systems.

Q4: How do I check if my motherboard supports TPM 2.0?
A4: Check your motherboard manual or manufacturer website. Many modern boards have TPM headers or integrated fTPM/Intel PTT support.


Conclusion

The “This build of Vanguard requires TPM version 2.0 and Secure Boot to be enabled” error in Valorant occurs due to disabled security features, outdated firmware, or incompatible hardware.

Firstly, enable TPM 2.0 and Secure Boot in BIOS/UEFI. Additionally, update your BIOS, Windows, and drivers, or reinstall Vanguard and Valorant if necessary.

By carefully following these steps, you can resolve the error and enjoy playing Valorant without interruptions on Windows 11 or 10.

Leave a comment