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

  • Vanguard Error: VAN 193. An unexpected error with Vanguard has occurred and the client will now close.
  • What does VAN 193 mean?
  • I got error VAN 193 when trying to launch my game.

Resolution

VAN 193 usually means Riot Vanguard had trouble starting or communicating correctly with Riot Client.

Try these steps in order. We'll start with the quickest client and Vanguard startup checks first, then move into the bigger ones if Vanguard still needs a little help getting back online.

Launch your game after each step and hop into the Practice Tool or custom games to see if it worked. This lets you test safely without disrupting matchmade games and risking penalties if the error appears again.

  1. Close extra Riot Client instances. Multiple Riot Client sessions can sometimes cause launch or session conflicts. Make sure you only have one Riot Client running, then try launching your game again.
  2. Restart your PC. This gives Vanguard a fresh startup and can resolve many temporary Vanguard connection issues.
  3. Set the Vanguard service to start automatically. Having Vanguard installed won't do much good if it's not running when you try to play. If you don't use Vanguard Pre-Check to enable Vanguard to run on-demand, you'll need to set the Vanguard (vgc) service to Automatic.
  4. Restore Windows security to a normal state. Some Windows security settings can prevent Vanguard from verifying your PC correctly. Follow our guide to restore Windows security to a normal state.
  5. Delete the Vanguard boot status file. If this file is corrupted, deleting vgkbootstatus.dat can let Vanguard recreate it the next time your game starts.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.