If you’ve been hit with the annoying “HVCI Enabled” VAN Error while trying to launch Valorant, you’re not alone. This error pops up due to a clash between Riot’s anti-cheat system and a Windows security feature. Sounds scary? Don’t worry — it’s not as bad as it seems!
TL;DR (Too Long, Didn’t Read)
The “HVCI Enabled” error in Valorant is caused by a Windows security feature clashing with Riot Vanguard. HVCI stands for “Hypervisor-protected Code Integrity.” To fix it, you’ll need to disable a setting in Windows that enforces this. Thankfully, it’s quick and safe if done properly, and this guide will walk you through every step.
What Is HVCI Anyway?
HVCI is short for Hypervisor-protected Code Integrity. It’s part of a group of features known as Memory Integrity or Core Isolation in Windows 10 and 11. This feature blocks low-level code changes, which is good for security… but not so good for Riot’s Vanguard anti-cheat.
The problem here? Vanguard needs deep-level access to your system to prevent cheaters from loading shady software.
When HVCI is enabled, Vanguard throws a fit and stops Valorant from running. That’s why you’re getting that annoying error message.
How to Fix HVCI Enabled VAN Error — Step-by-Step
Let’s get rid of that error and launch Valorant in peace!
Step 1: Open Windows Security Settings
- Press Start and search for Windows Security.
- Click on it to open the Windows Security app.
Step 2: Go to Device Security
- Inside the Windows Security window, select Device Security from the left-hand menu.
- Click on the Core Isolation details link.
Step 3: Turn Off Memory Integrity
- Under Core Isolation, you’ll see a toggle for Memory Integrity.
- Switch that toggle to Off.
- Windows may ask you to restart — go ahead and do it!
After restarting, Vanguard should stop complaining, and Valorant should open like normal!
Alternative Method: Use Group Policy Editor
If the first method doesn’t work or you love digging into the guts of your PC, there’s another way!
Step 1: Open Local Group Policy Editor
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type gpedit.msc and press Enter.
Step 2: Navigate Through the Menu
Go through the following path:
- Computer Configuration >
- Administrative Templates >
- System >
- Device Guard
Step 3: Configure Virtualization-Based Security
- Find and double-click Turn On Virtualization-based Security.
- Set the option to Disabled.
- Click OK, then restart your computer.
This disables the VBS features that can trigger the VAN error, including HVCI.
Still Seeing Problems? Try This Last Resort
If you’ve tried everything and still can’t launch Valorant, try disabling VBS at the boot level.
Step 1: Open Command Prompt as Admin
- Click Start, type cmd, then right-click and choose Run as Administrator.
Step 2: Run This Command
bcdedit /set hypervisorlaunchtype off
- After running that command, restart your PC.
This fully disables Hyper-V features and should stop HVCI from running, making Vanguard happy again.
Can You Turn HVCI Back On Later?
Absolutely! If you ever uninstall Valorant or feel like re-enabling extra security features, just go back to your Windows Security settings and toggle Memory Integrity back on. Same goes for using Group Policy or reverting the bcdedit command using:
bcdedit /set hypervisorlaunchtype auto
Then restart your device. Easy!
Is It Safe to Disable HVCI?
Good question. The short version? Yes, for most people.
HVCI is aimed at enterprise users or very security-conscious individuals. Unless you’re constantly running unknown programs or testing malware (hope not!), disabling HVCI won’t hurt much. Just stay smart with what you download and click online.
Why Does Valorant Even Do This?
Riot takes anti-cheat seriously. Like, seriously-seriously. Their system, Vanguard, deals with threats at a low level to catch even slick cheats. To do that, it wrestles with Windows settings like HVCI. If anything blocks Vanguard, including HVCI, Valorant won’t launch.
It’s a high price for a fair game — but thankfully, one you can manage with just a few clicks.
Bonus: Quick Fix Checklist
- Disable Memory Integrity in Windows Security
- Use Group Policy to turn off virtualization features
- Disable VBS via Command Prompt if all else fails
- Restart your PC after each fix attempt
Final Tips
Here are some last-minute tips to keep you sane:
- Update Valorant and Windows regularly. Sometimes an update quietly fixes the issue.
- Avoid enabling HVCI unless needed. Especially if you play other games with similar protections.
- Bookmark this guide! If something breaks again, you’ll know where to look.
Let the Games Begin!
That’s it! The mysterious “HVCI Enabled” VAN error shouldn’t bother you now. With these steps, you’ve taken control of your system and got one step closer to Radiant… or at least Bronze 3 without interruptions.
Now go launch Valorant, pick your favorite agent, and clutch or kick!