If your problem sounds like this, you're in the right place:

  • Connection Error: VALORANT encountered a connection error. Please relaunch the client to reconnect.
  • What does VAN 138 mean?
  • I am running the game or Riot Vanguard from a virtual machine and got VAN 138.

Resolution

VAN 138 usually means your game or Riot Vanguard is being run from a virtual machine or unsupported virtualized environment.

Riot Vanguard is not supported in virtual machine environments (we like to keep it real). Try these steps in order to get back on track. We’ll start by making sure your game and Riot Vanguard are running on a regular Windows installation, then move into standard troubleshooting if the error keeps showing up. Launch your game after each step to see if it worked.

  1. Use a regular Windows installation. Because Vanguard won't work on virtual machines or unsupported virtualized environments, you'll need to install and run both your game and Riot Vanguard from a standard Windows PC.
  2. Remove and reinstall Vanguard. The quickest way to restore Vanguard's default settings is to manually uninstall it, then restart your PC and launch your game again to reinstall Vanguard.
  3. Perform a clean boot. Background apps or services may interfere with Riot Vanguard, and a clean boot helps you dial in on what exactly is giving you trouble.
  4. Configure your firewall. Your firewall may be blocking the Riot Client from communicating with our servers. Follow our guide to configure your firewall.
  5. Reinstall your game. This can replace corrupted or missing game files that may be preventing Vanguard or your game from launching correctly. Follow our guide to uninstall and reinstall your game.

Still having issues?

If you still see the error after trying these steps, submit a ticket to Player Support. Make sure you attach your logs so we can take a closer look and help get you back in the game.