Valorant How To Fix Error Code VAL 1 (2024)

If you’re a relatively new player to Valorant, then knowing how to fix error codes like VAL 1 is important should such an error force you to log off for the rest of the day. Errors like VAL 1 are well-documented and have a wide variety of fixes that you can try, as one of them will definitely work. So, if you’re interested in learning how to fix the VAL 1 error code, keep reading.

What is Error Code VAL 1 in Valorant?

Error code VAL 1 arises from connection problems stemming from a variety of factors. For instance, there could be permission barriers impeding Riot Client from properly launching all of Valorant’s launch files and connecting to your region’s server. Conversely, some of Valorant’s files could also be corrupted, triggering a connection error with Vanguard, which is partly responsible for verifying the integrity of your files.

How Can You Fix Error Code Val 1?

Error code VAL 1 is relatively easy to fix, whereas completely reinstalling Valorant is a last-resort option, so you don’t have to worry too much! Our solutions will progress from fastest-to-do to slowest-to-do.

Restart Riot Client

You might’ve already tried this, but in case you haven’t, the first thing you should do upon seeing error code VAL 1 is restart Riot Client. This allows you to not only restart the Riot Client service but also terminate and re-establish a connection to Riot servers upon booting up Valorant.

To restart Riot Client, navigate to the System Tray, right-click on the Riot Client, and left-click Exit. Then, simply boot it up again.

Launch Riot Client and Valorant as Administrator

Another possible reason behind getting error code VAL 1 is permission issues, all of which can be resolved in one fell swoop by running both the Riot Client and Valorant as Administrator. This cause is particularly more common on shared systems where you may be logged in as a Guest.

Regardless, to find Riot Client, navigate to the following directory: C:\Riot Games\Riot Client, where you should find RiotClientServices. Open up its Compatibility properties and check Run this program as administrator.

To instill administrator privileges to Valorant, navigate to the following directory: F:\Riot Games\VALORANT\live\ShooterGame\Binaries\Win64, where the F drive is where you’ve actually installed Valorant. You’ll see a file named VALORANT-Win64-Shipping with the Valorant icon. Open up its Compatibility properties and check Run this program as administrator.

Reinstall/Update Graphic Drivers

If your graphic drivers are out of date, they may cause compatibility issues with Valorant, not allowing all of its launch files to boot up, ultimately impeding connection to Riot servers. The similar holds true if your graphic drivers are up to date but have integrity issues. With that said, you should update your graphic drivers or reinstall them if they are already up to date.

To update graphic drivers, you can either download them from your GPU’s official website or through their own assistive tool (such as GeForce Experience for Nvidia). The latter is more recommended as it actively scans for any driver updates and prompts you automatically.

To uninstall graphic drivers, head over to Device Manager and navigate to your GPU from the Display Adapters. Then, simply right-click on it and left-click Uninstall device.

Image by N4G Unlocked

Reinstall Riot Client and Valorant

Reinstalling Riot Client and Valorant is practically a last resort, and if this doesn’t work, you’ll have to reach out to Riot Games’ Support. It shouldn’t take too long to carry out the reinstallation if you let it proceed overnight when there is little content over WiFi bandwidth.

To uninstall Valorant, navigate to Apps & Features in your settings, look up Valorant, and uninstall. Don’t forget to uninstall Vanguard as well.

For more guides and information on Valorant, check out our articles on How To Aim for the Head with Crosshair Placement, TenZ’s Valorant settings and How To Fix Error Code 43.