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VALORANT · BLUE SCREEN · DRIVER DIAGNOSTICS

Vanguard vgk.sys BSOD Fix

Investigate the crash safely before changing Windows kernel protection settings.

Walker Bex Guides••7 min read
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The quick answer

Investigate the crash without weakening security.

If the blue screen references vgk.sys, collect the stop code and crash timestamp, install Windows and device-driver updates, and test whether another monitoring/overlay driver is involved. A module name in a dump is not proof that the module caused the crash.

Jump into the guide

01Keep kernel protection enabled while diagnosing

Security warning: Kernel-mode Hardware-enforced Stack Protection and Memory Integrity protect Windows against kernel attacks. Disabling them just to launch a game reduces protection and can cause other Vanguard requirement errors. Use Windows Security to view their status; change them only with Microsoft/Riot-supported guidance.

Windows Security — status check

Device Security → Core isolation. Note whether Memory Integrity or stack protection is enabled.

Crash timeline

Record the stop code, event timestamp, recent Windows updates, and whether a new driver or utility was installed.

02How to inspect a Windows minidump

  1. Find the newest crash

    Windows may save files in C:\Windows\Minidump. Do not publish raw dumps containing personal data.

  2. Open the file with Microsoft WinDbg

    Start with the built-in analysis view and review the stop code, probable cause, and loaded modules.

  3. Compare more than one crash

    Repeated reference to a particular third-party driver is a clue, but requires corroboration.

  4. Export only relevant details to support

    Send Riot the event time and diagnostic logs using their official ticket route.

03Check likely driver interactions

MSI Afterburner / RTSS

If RTCore64.sys or a monitoring utility appears, use the vendor’s official update/uninstall path. Do not delete a random .sys file in isolation.

Overlays or peripheral utilities

Temporarily exit optional overlays, recording tools, or RGB utilities; reboot and test one at a time.

  • Update Windows and chipset/GPU drivers from the relevant manufacturers.
  • Use Windows clean boot to identify which third-party startup component causes the conflict.
  • If problems persist, repair Vanguard using Riot’s documented workflow.

Frequently asked questions

Does vgk.sys in a dump prove Vanguard caused the BSOD?

No. A stack trace may include Vanguard while the crash was triggered elsewhere. Correlate logs and repeated events.

Should I permanently turn off kernel stack protection?

No. Prefer updated compatible drivers and official support, while retaining Windows protections.

Sources & update notes

Original Walker Bex explanations. Technical guidance checked October 15, 2026; follow the current linked support instructions if they change.