Valorant Error Code 1 typically appears during game startup, blocking access and interrupting matches. This error often points to issues with Riot’s servers, corrupted game files, or device connection problems during launch. Addressing the root cause quickly restores access and prevents further disruptions in gameplay.

Restart the Riot Client

Step 1: Close the Riot Client completely by right-clicking its icon in the system tray and selecting Exit. Wait a few seconds to ensure all related processes have ended.

Step 2: Reopen the Riot Client and launch Valorant again. Restarting the client forces the program to reestablish a connection with Riot’s servers and often resolves temporary glitches or session issues.

Run Valorant as an Administrator

Step 1: Locate the Valorant shortcut on your desktop or in the Start menu. Right-click the shortcut and select Run as administrator. If prompted, confirm administrator access. Running Valorant with elevated permissions bypasses certain Windows restrictions that could prevent the game from starting or communicating with system services.

Step 2: If this step works and you want to automate it, right-click the shortcut again, choose Properties, go to the Compatibility tab, and check Run this program as an administrator. Click Apply and OK to save the setting.

Update Graphics Drivers

Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers can cause Valorant Error Code 1.

Step 1: For Nvidia users, open GeForce Experience, go to the Drivers section, and click Check for updates. For AMD cards, use the official AMD software to check for updates.

Step 2: Download and install any available updates.

Step 3: Alternatively, open Device Manager, expand Display adapters, right-click your GPU, and select Update driver. Keeping drivers current improves compatibility and reduces the risk of launch errors.

Reinstall Valorant and Riot Vanguard

If restarting and updating drivers do not resolve the error, a clean reinstall of Valorant and Riot Vanguard may be necessary.

Step 1: First, open the Windows Settings app or Control Panel and go to Programs or Installed Apps.

Step 2: Find Riot Vanguard and uninstall it, then uninstall Valorant.

Step 3: To ensure all residual files are removed, press Windows + R, type %appdata%, and delete the Riot Games folder. Repeat for %LocalAppData%\Riot Games and %ProgramData%\Riot Games.

Step 4: Download the latest installer from Riot’s official website and reinstall both the client and the game. This process removes corrupted files and ensures a fresh installation.

Check for Network and System Conflicts

Network issues or conflicting software can trigger Error Code 1.

Step 1: Temporarily disable VPNs, proxy connections, or background applications that use significant bandwidth.

Step 2: If you use third-party antivirus or firewall software, add Valorant and Riot Vanguard to the exception list or temporarily disable these tools to test if they are interfering with game startup. Some users have reported that network-related solutions, such as using a VPN like Cloudflare WARP, resolved persistent errors, especially when local ISP issues were suspected.

Advanced: Reinstall Windows Without Data Loss

If all standard solutions fail and you continue to see Error Code 1, you can attempt a non-destructive Windows reinstall. This process refreshes system files without erasing your personal data. Search for Reset this PC in Windows settings, click Reset PC, select Keep my files, and follow the instructions. After the reset, reinstall Valorant and Riot Vanguard. This approach addresses deep system corruption that may block game processes.

Contact Riot Games Support

If none of the above methods resolve Error Code 1, contact Riot Games Support through their official website. Submit a detailed support ticket describing your troubleshooting steps and system configuration. The support team can provide tailored assistance and investigate issues beyond standard fixes.

Addressing Valorant Error Code 1 on Windows 11 involves targeted troubleshooting—starting with client restarts and progressing to system-level repairs. Keeping drivers updated and software clean reduces future disruptions and keeps your game running smoothly.