VALORANT could not enter matchmaking error explained: 9 effective fixes
Running into the VALORANT could not enter matchmaking error can be a real headache, stopping you from jumping into matches and enjoying the game. The good news? It’s often easy to fix with a few quick steps.
In this guide, we’ll explain why this error happens and walk you through 9 simple fixes to get you back in action.
What causes VALORANT could not enter matchmaking error?
The VALORANT could not enter a matchmaking error, which occurs when the game cannot connect to its matchmaking servers after you queue for a match. This error prevents you from joining a game and can frustrate players. Here are the usual suspects that this VALORANT error might happen:
- Network problems: If your internet is slow, unstable, or temporarily disconnected, VALORANT cannot properly connect to Riot's matchmaking servers. Issues like high ping, packet loss, or restrictions from firewalls can block the game from working correctly.
- Problems with Riot's servers: Sometimes, the issue isn’t on your side. Riot’s servers might be down for maintenance or overloaded, preventing matchmaking from working.
- DNS issues: The Domain Name System (DNS) translates server addresses into something your computer can understand. If your DNS settings are outdated or not working, the game might not be able to reach Riot’s servers.
- Anti-Cheat Problems (Riot Vanguard): Riot Vanguard, the game’s anti-cheat system, needs to run in the background for VALORANT to work. If a part of it called the VGC service isn’t running, matchmaking will fail.
- Hardware or computer issues: Sometimes, other programs on your computer (like downloads or updates) use up your internet speed and prevent the game from connecting. Outdated software, like old network drivers, can also cause problems.
Most of the time, VALORANT could not enter matchmaking error is a minor problem caused by a temporary glitch or a connection issue. Other parts of Valorant, like the practice range or the store, may still work fine. However, if you want to back to field quick, there are some workarounds you can try.
How to fix VALORANT could not enter matchmaking error
The "Could Not Enter Matchmaking" error in VALORANT can often be fixed with a few simple steps:
- Restart VALORANT and Riot Client.
- Check and stabilize your internet connection.
- Flush your DNS.
- Verify if Riot’s servers are down.
- Ensure Riot Vanguard is running.
- Update your network drivers.
- Switch to a public DNS like Google DNS.
- Verify and repair game files through the Riot Client.
- Contact Riot Support.
Restart VALORANT and Riot Client
The simplest fix is to restart the game and its client.
- Close VALORANT completely:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Find VALORANT, right-click it, and select End Task.
- Do the same for Riot Client if it’s still running.
- Restart the game: Launch VALORANT again from the Riot Client and try queuing for a match.
Check and stabilize your internet connection
The error often happens due to poor connectivity.
- Restart your router: Turn off your router, wait for 30 seconds, and turn it back on.
- Reconnect to your network: Disconnect and reconnect your device to Wi-Fi. If possible, switch to a wired connection for better stability.
- Pause background downloads: Make sure no large files are being downloaded, as they can use up your internet bandwidth.
- Test your connection: Use an online speed test, like Oakla, to check for high ping or unstable connections.
Flush your DNS
Sometimes, DNS issues can block VALORANT from connecting to the servers. Flushing your DNS can help.
- Open Command Prompt as an administrator:
- Type CMD in the Windows search bar, right-click it, and select Run as Administrator.
- Enter this command: ipconfig /flushdns and press Enter.
- Wait for the message: “Successfully flushed the DNS resolver cache.”
- Restart your computer and try launching VALORANT again.
Verify if Riot’s servers are down
If Riot’s servers are down, you won’t be able to join matchmaking. Visit the official Riot Games service status page and check websites like Downdetector or social media accounts (like X) for maintenance updates or server outages.
If the servers are down, you must wait until they’re back online.
Ensure Riot Vanguard is running
Riot Vanguard, the game’s anti-cheat system, needs to run for matchmaking to work.
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type services.msc and press Enter.
- Find VGC in the list.
- If it says Stopped, right-click and select Start.
- If it doesn’t appear, reinstall Riot Vanguard by uninstalling and reinstalling Valorant.
Update your network drivers
Outdated or corrupted network drivers can cause connectivity issues, including matchmaking errors. Restart your PC after updating your drivers and try launching VALORANT again.
Switch to a public DNS like Google DNS
Using a more reliable DNS can improve your connection to Valorant's servers.
Verify and repair game files through the Riot Client
Corrupted or missing game files can cause the matchmaking system to malfunction. Riot’s game client lets you verify and repair your files.
- Open the Riot Client.
- Click on VALORANT in your game library.
- Look for the gear icon (Settings) near the Play button.
- Select Scan and Repair or a similar option to verify the game files.
- Wait for the process to complete and relaunch Valorant.
Contact Riot Support
If none of the above steps work, reach out to Riot Games for assistance.
Want to learn more VALORANT tips? Check out our guides below: