How to Download Valorant on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re a gamer, chances are you’ve already heard of Valorant, Riot Games’ popular free-to-play tactical shooter. With millions of players worldwide, it has become one of the most competitive and thrilling games around. But if you’ve just upgraded to Windows 11, you might be wondering: How do I download Valorant and start playing on my PC?

Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything: from checking system requirements to downloading, installing, and optimizing Valorant on Windows 11. By the end, you’ll be ready to dive straight into the action.

Why Play Valorant on Windows 11?

Windows 11 brings some improvements that make gaming even better:

DirectStorage support for faster loading times.
Auto HDR for enhanced visuals on supported monitors.
Better gaming optimization compared to older Windows versions.

So, if your PC can handle it, Windows 11 gives you a smoother Valorant experience.

Step 1: Check Valorant System Requirements

Before downloading, make sure your system meets the minimum requirements.

Minimum Requirements

OS: Windows 7/8/10/11 (64-bit)
Processor: Intel Core 2 Duo E8400
RAM: 4 GB
Graphics: Intel HD 3000
VRAM: 1 GB
Storage: At least 20 GB free space

Recommended Requirements

OS: Windows 10/11 (64-bit)
Processor: Intel i3-4150 or higher
RAM: 8 GB or more
Graphics: GTX 1050 Ti or higher
VRAM: 2 GB+
Storage: 20 GB free space

👉 If your PC meets these, you’re good to go.

Step 2: Visit the Official Valorant Website

To avoid fake downloads or malware, always get Valorant from Riot Games’ official site.

Open your browser (Edge, Chrome, etc.).
Go to playvalorant.com.
Click the Play Free button.

Step 3: Sign in or Create a Riot Games Account

You need a Riot Games account to play Valorant.

Click Sign In if you already have one.
If not, select Create an Account.
Enter your email, username, password, and birthday.
Verify your account through your email.

Step 4: Download the Valorant Installer

Once logged in:

Click Download on the Valorant page.
A small setup file named Install VALORANT.exe will download.
Save it to a location you’ll remember (like Desktop or Downloads).

Step 5: Install Valorant on Windows 11

Now it’s time to install the game.

Double-click the Install VALORANT.exe file.
Click Yes when asked for admin permission.
Follow the on-screen instructions.
Valorant and Riot’s Vanguard anti-cheat system will install.

⚠️ Important: Vanguard requires a restart to finish installation.

Step 6: Restart Your PC

After installation, restart your computer. Vanguard won’t run properly unless you reboot. This step is mandatory.

Step 7: Launch Valorant

Once your PC restarts:

Find the Valorant shortcut on your desktop.
Double-click it to open the game.
Sign in with your Riot Games account.

Congrats—you’re in! 🎉

Step 8: Update Valorant (if needed)

When you first open Valorant, it may download additional updates.

Make sure your internet connection is stable.
Wait until the update finishes before starting your first match.

Step 9: Optimize Valorant for Best Performance on Windows 11

Even if your PC isn’t high-end, you can tweak settings for smoother gameplay.

In-Game Settings to Adjust

Resolution: Set it to your monitor’s native resolution.
Graphics Quality: Use Low or Medium for higher FPS.
V-Sync: Turn off for reduced input lag.
Limit FPS: Enable to avoid overheating.

Step 10: Enable Game Mode in Windows 11

Windows 11 has a built-in Game Mode.

Press Windows + I to open Settings.
Go to Gaming > Game Mode.
Toggle Game Mode ON.

This ensures Windows prioritizes your game performance.

Step 11: Update Your Graphics Drivers

Outdated drivers can cause lag or crashes.

If you use NVIDIA, update via GeForce Experience.
If you use AMD, update via Radeon Software.
For Intel graphics, check Intel’s Driver & Support Assistant.

Step 12: Fix Common Valorant Installation Errors

Sometimes, players face errors when installing.

Error Code 43: Restart PC and reinstall Vanguard.
Error Code 128: Disable third-party antivirus and restart.
Stuck at 0%: Run installer as Administrator.

Step 13: Change Valorant Installation Folder (Optional)

By default, Valorant installs on your C: drive. But you can choose another drive if needed.

During installation, select Advanced options.
Pick the folder/drive of your choice.

Step 14: Create a Desktop Shortcut for Valorant

If the shortcut is missing:

Open File Explorer.
Navigate to:

C:\Riot Games\VALORANT\live\
Right-click VALORANT.exe → Send to > Desktop (create shortcut).

Step 15: Adjust Windows 11 Firewall Settings (if needed)

If Valorant isn’t launching:

Press Windows + S, type Windows Defender Firewall.
Select Allow an app through firewall.
Add Valorant.exe and RiotClientServices.exe.

Tips for Smooth Gameplay

Always keep Windows 11 and Valorant updated.
Close background apps like Discord overlays or screen recorders if you face lag.
Use a wired connection for lower ping.

Conclusion

Downloading and installing Valorant on Windows 11 is straightforward if you follow the steps: check requirements, create a Riot account, download the installer, install Valorant + Vanguard, and restart your PC. Once everything is set, tweak your settings for the best gaming experience.

Now grab your mouse, choose your agent, and dive into the battlefield. Victory awaits!

FAQs

Q1: Is Valorant free to download on Windows 11?
Yes, Valorant is completely free. You only need a Riot Games account.

Q2: Can Valorant run on low-end PCs with Windows 11?
Yes, as long as your PC meets the minimum requirements.

Q3: Why is Valorant not installing on my Windows 11 PC?
It could be due to Vanguard issues, lack of admin permissions, or antivirus blocking.

Q4: How much space does Valorant take on Windows 11?
Around 20 GB after installation, but it may increase with updates.

Q5: Do I need a separate Riot Games account for Valorant?
No, your Riot account works across all Riot games like LoL and TFT.