If you’re new to Riot Games’ hit shooter and want to know exactly how to complete your Valorant download, installation, and setup, this guide from FreedomX covers everything in one place. Whether you’re a first-time player or reinstalling the game on a new PC, this walkthrough will take you from the official Riot Client download all the way to your first Valorant match — quickly, safely, and efficiently.
What You Need Before Starting the Valorant Download
Before you begin your Valorant Download, it’s important to ensure your system can handle the game. Valorant is well-optimized for both mid-range and high-end PCs, but meeting the minimum specs ensures a smooth installation and gameplay experience.
Minimum Requirements
- OS: Windows 10 (64-bit) or Windows 11
- Processor: Intel i3-4150 or AMD Ryzen 3 1200
- RAM: 4 GB
- Graphics: Intel HD 3000 or better
- Storage: 30 GB of free space
Recommended Requirements
- Processor: Intel i5 or Ryzen 5 and above
- RAM: 8 GB or higher
- Graphics: GTX 1050 Ti or equivalent
- Storage: SSD for faster performance
Meeting these specs ensures your Valorant Download and gameplay run without errors or lag.
Step 1: Access the Official Valorant Download Link
To start your Valorant Download, always use Riot Games’ official source. Avoid unofficial sites or download links, as they can contain malware or fake installers.
- Open your browser and search “Valorant Download Riot Games.”
- Click on the official Riot Games website (ending in riotgames.com).
- Select Download on the Valorant page.
- A small setup file named RiotClientInstaller.exe will begin downloading.
This installer is your gateway to the Riot Client, which manages the full Valorant Download and installation.
Step 2: Install the Riot Client
Once the installer has downloaded, locate it in your Downloads folder and double-click to run it. Follow the instructions to install the Riot Client — Riot’s all-in-one game launcher for Valorant and other titles like League of Legends.
After installation, the Riot Client will open automatically and prompt you to log in or create an account.
Step 3: Create or Log In to Your Riot Account
You need a Riot account to continue the Valorant Download.
- If you already have a Riot Games account, log in with your credentials.
- If you’re new, click Create Account and complete the registration process.
Your Riot account is where all your progress, rank, and purchased items are stored.
Step 4: Begin the Valorant Download
Once logged in, find Valorant on the list of games and click Install. Choose your preferred installation directory (SSD recommended) and confirm.
The Valorant Download will begin immediately through the Riot Client. Depending on your internet connection, it usually takes between 15–30 minutes to complete the 25–30 GB download.
Tips to Speed Up Your Valorant Download
- Close unnecessary programs or browsers.
- Use a wired Ethernet connection instead of Wi-Fi.
- Disable background updates temporarily.
This will help your Valorant Download finish faster and without interruptions.
Step 5: Install Riot Vanguard
After the main Valorant Download completes, the Riot Client will prompt you to install Vanguard, Riot’s official anti-cheat system. Vanguard is required to play Valorant and helps maintain fair matches.
Click Yes to install it. Once complete, restart your PC when prompted — this activates Vanguard properly.
Step 6: Launch Valorant
After your restart, open the Riot Client again. You’ll now see Valorant listed and ready to play. Click Play to launch the game.
If it’s your first time running the game after your Valorant Download, it may take a few seconds to load resources and sync your settings. Once done, you’ll be taken to the main menu.
Step 7: Set Up Your Settings and Controls
Before jumping into matches, take a moment to configure your game settings. A few small adjustments can make your experience much better.
Graphics Settings
- Display Mode: Fullscreen
- Resolution: Match your monitor’s native setting
- Graphics Quality: Medium (or Low for higher FPS)
- V-Sync: Off for lower input lag
Controls
Go to Settings > Controls and adjust your keybinds. Valorant’s default layout is solid, but customizing it helps you play comfortably.
These changes ensure that your Valorant Download transitions smoothly into a playable, optimized setup.
Step 8: Complete the Tutorial
When you launch the game for the first time, you’ll go through a short tutorial. This teaches you basic mechanics like shooting, aiming, and using agent abilities. It’s the perfect starting point after completing your Valorant Download and setup.
Once you finish, you’ll gain access to main game modes such as Unrated, Swiftplay, and Practice Range.
Step 9: Fix Common Valorant Download or Launch Issues
If your Valorant Download fails, freezes, or shows errors, don’t panic — most issues are easy to fix.
Common Fixes
- Restart the Riot Client: This resolves temporary connection errors.
- Run as Administrator: Gives the installer proper access.
- Disable Antivirus Temporarily: Some antivirus software can block downloads.
- Ensure Enough Disk Space: Keep at least 30 GB free before starting.
- Check Vanguard: If the game doesn’t launch, reinstall Vanguard through the Riot Client.
Following these fixes ensures your Valorant Download and setup remain smooth.
Step 10: Update and Maintain Your Game
Your Valorant Download automatically stays updated through the Riot Client. Each time you open the launcher, it checks for new patches, bug fixes, and balance changes.
Always keep your Riot Client open for a few minutes before playing to ensure you’re running the latest version.
Step 11: Optional Optimization for Better Performance
Once your Valorant Download and installation are complete, you can boost performance with these tips:
- Set Power Mode to High Performance in Windows settings.
- Use Performance Mode in your GPU software (NVIDIA or AMD).
- Close background tasks like browsers, Discord, or streaming apps while gaming.
These tweaks make a noticeable difference, especially on mid-range PCs.
Step 12: Enjoy Your First Match
With your Valorant Download finished and everything set up, you’re ready to play your first match. Start with Unrated or Swiftplay to practice and learn the game’s mechanics.
As you progress, you can unlock new agents, earn skins, and eventually dive into competitive mode once you reach the required level.
Conclusion
Completing your Valorant Download and setup is easy when you follow the right process. Always download the game through the official Riot Client, install Vanguard, and keep your system updated for smooth performance. From installation to your first match, every step ensures a clean and lag-free experience. At FreedomX, we recommend this complete walkthrough for all first-time players — get your Valorant Download started today and jump straight into the action with confidence.