What Is Error 44? And, How Can We Fix It?

Image Credit: Riot Games 

Valorant Error Code 44 is a common issue that players encounter on both PC and console versions of the game. This error occurs when there is a problem with the game's anti-cheat software, Riot Vanguard. Here’s a rundown of what it is, what causes it, and how to troubleshoot it on PS5 and Xbox Series X|S. Let’s get started! 

What is Valorant Error Code 44?

Error Code 44 happens when Riot’s anti-cheat system fails to start in some way. The anti-cheat software, called Vanguard, is essential for running Valorant because it prevents cheating by monitoring the game. When Vanguard doesn’t start correctly, the game is unable to launch, resulting in Error Code 44. And this same error carried over to the console version of Valorant when it was released. 

Image Credit: Riot Games

What Causes Error Code 44 On Console ? 

On PC, this error is usually caused by conflicts with other software and corrupted Vanguard files. But on PS5 and Xbox Series X, it’s usually caused by the following reasons instead: 

• Improper Game Shutdown: If the game was not closed properly in a previous session, for instance if you put your console straight into rest mode, and it merely suspended Valorant rather than closing it down, then Vanguard might not restart correctly for the next session.
• System Updates: Incompatibility issues due to missing system updates can cause Vanguard to malfunction, although this is quite rare on console. 
• Server-Side Issues: Sometimes, the problem can be on Riot’s end, where servers are experiencing issues and Vanguard fails to authenticate. This reason is very common on both PC and Console. 
  

Now let’s get to the important bit: How do you fix this error? 

How To Fix Error Code 44 On Console 

Usually, the following tricks work for us: 

Close and re-open Valorant: 

If you left your console on rest and suspended Valorant, properly closing and re-opening the game is often a quick-fix (this works for a number of other bugs as well).

Restart the Console:

Yes, yes, we know it’s obvious, but this can work. Turn off your console completely. Wait for about 1-2 minutes, then power it on, and try launching Valorant again.

Check Valorant’s Server Status:

Check out Riot Games' server status website, or check their social media for any key updates. 

Ensure your console’s system software is up-to-date:

PS5:

1. Turn on your PS5 and go to the Home Screen.
2. Open Settings: On the home screen, go to the top-right corner and select the Settings icon.
3. Go to System: Scroll down in the Settings menu and select System.
4. Select System Software: Within the System menu, select System Software.
5. Check for System Software Updates: In the System Software menu, select System Software Update and Settings.

Here, you can choose Update System Software. The PS5 will then check for any available updates.

Image Credit: Riot Games 

Xbox:

1. Turn on Your Xbox and go to the Home Screen.
2. Open Settings: Press the Xbox button on your controller to open the guide. Navigate to Profile & System (the icon with your profile picture) and select Settings.
3. Go to System: In the Settings menu, scroll down and select System.
4. Select Updates: Under System, select Updates.
5. Check for Updates: In the Updates menu, if there is an update available, it will show up under Console Update Available. If it does, select it to start the update process.
6. Reinstall Valorant: Of course we want to avoid this, but if the error persists, try uninstalling and reinstalling the game. Uninstalling and then reinstalling can ensure that any corrupted files are replaced.

By following these steps, you should be able to resolve Valorant Error Code 44 on your console and get back into the game. Good luck on the grind!