VAN: Incompatible Software

If you see the error message "VAN: INCOMPATIBLE SOFTWARE", it means one of your driver files isn't compatible with Vanguard. 

How do I fix the VAN: Incompatible Software error?

Removing the incompatible file is generally the fastest way to fix this issue. The error message lists exactly which file that is. 

Example:

Detected File: C:\Windows\System32\IncompatibleDriver.sys

HOW TO REMOVE  YOUR INCOMPATIBLE FILE

Removing Your Incompatible File

1. Identify the Incompatible File 

When Vanguard blocks a file, it usually displays the file path (e.g., C:\Windows\System32\drivers\xxx.sys).
Take a screenshot of the error message to know exactly which file is causing the issue. 

2. Remove/Uninstall the Incompatible Software

1. Open the Windows Control Panel, or go to  or Settings > Apps > Installed Apps.
2. Search for the software mentioned in the error message (e.g., old drivers, outdated monitoring tools, or RGB lighting software) and Uninstall it.
3. Restart your computer immediately after uninstalling. 

3. If uninstalling fails: Manually Delete the Flagged File

If the software cannot be uninstalled, you can manually remove the offending .sys file: 

1. Navigate to the file path shown in the error (e.g., C:\Windows\System32\drivers\).
2. Delete the flagged .sys file (e.g., inpoutx64.sys or similar).
3. Restart your PC. 

Other Troubleshooting

If you're still getting the same error even after uninstalling the flagged file, there are a few other steps that may help:

Enable Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 (For Windows 11) 

If you are getting a "Vanguard out of compliance" error (VAN 9003), your system likely requires Secure Boot. 

1. Restart your computer and enter the BIOS/UEFI (usually by holding F2, F12, or Del while restarting).
2. Locate the Boot settings and enable Secure Boot.
3. Ensure CSM (Compatibility Support Module) is Disabled.
4. Enable TPM 2.0 (sometimes called PTT or fTPM).
5. Save and exit. 

Repair/Reinstall Vanguard 

Reinstalling Vanguard can also resolve the issue: 

1. Uninstall Riot Vanguard via Control Panel.
2. Restart your computer.
3. Open the Riot Client and let it reinstall Vanguard, then restart again. 

Disable Your Proxy or VPN 

Using a proxy or VPN can result in various errors on Vanguard, and it's always better to turn them off when troubleshooting.

Disable a VPN (Quick Fix)

• Click the VPN icon in the system tray and disconnect.

OR

• Go to Settings > Network & Internet > VPN and toggle it Off. 

Uninstall a VPN

1. Go to Settings > Apps and uninstall the VPN application.
2. Then, go to Network & Internet > Advanced network settings > Network reset, as shown in the Riot Games support article.