> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.corelabs.ac/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Preparing Your Computer

> Complete setup guide to prepare your system before using Valorant products

Before launching the product, you need to properly configure your computer. Follow these steps carefully to ensure everything works correctly.

<Steps>
  <Step title="Disable Windows Defender">
    Download **DControl** and disable Windows Defender:

    <Card title="Download DControl" icon="download" href="https://mega.nz/file/N4ZwnTzI#UBIbpnRRDSp9mrEKA5RC1v2eyV410Dwj2dGr9Usb1rA">
      Download DControl from Mega (WinRAR Password: `sordum`)
    </Card>

    1. Extract the archive using WinRAR (Password: `sordum`)
    2. Run `DControl.exe` as Administrator
    3. Turn **Windows Defender OFF** (real-time protection)

    <Warning>
      Remember to re-enable Windows Defender after you're done using the product for your system's security.
    </Warning>
  </Step>

  <Step title="Install Required Libraries">
    Ensure you have Visual C++ Libraries and DirectX installed:

    <CardGroup cols={2}>
      <Card title="Visual C++ All-in-One" icon="windows" href="https://www.techpowerup.com/download/visual-c-redistributable-runtime-package-all-in-one/">
        Download and install all Visual C++ Redistributable versions at once.
      </Card>

      <Card title="DirectX End-User Runtime" icon="gamepad" href="https://download.microsoft.com/download/1/7/1/1718ccc4-6315-4d8e-9543-8e28a4e18c4c/dxwebsetup.exe">
        Install DirectX to ensure graphics compatibility.
      </Card>
    </CardGroup>

    <Tip>
      If you already have these installed, you can skip this step. Most modern games install these automatically.
    </Tip>
  </Step>

  <Step title="Remove Third-Party Antivirus Software">
    Third-party antivirus programs often flag legitimate tools as threats due to their behavior.

    **Commonly conflicting antivirus software:**

    * Norton
    * McAfee
    * Kaspersky
    * Avast
    * AVG
    * Bitdefender

    <Note>
      You can reinstall your antivirus software after you're done. Make sure to completely uninstall it - simply disabling may not be enough.
    </Note>
  </Step>

  <Step title="Configure Game Display Settings">
    The product requires a specific display configuration to work properly.

    1. Launch Valorant
    2. Navigate to **Settings** → **Video** → **General**
    3. Set **Display Mode** to **Windowed Fullscreen**
    4. Apply the changes

    <Check>
      Your display mode should now show "Windowed Fullscreen" in the settings menu.
    </Check>
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Valorant-Specific Requirements

<Warning>
  Valorant uses Vanguard anti-cheat which requires additional considerations. Make sure to follow all steps precisely.
</Warning>

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Vanguard Anti-Cheat">
    Vanguard runs at system startup. Some products may require specific handling of Vanguard. Follow the instructions provided with your specific product version.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Riot Client">
    Ensure the Riot Client is completely closed before launching the product. Check Task Manager for any Riot-related processes.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

## Verification Checklist

Before proceeding to the next step, verify the following:

<AccordionGroup>
  <Accordion title="Windows Defender Status">
    Open Windows Security and confirm that Real-time protection is disabled.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Runtime Libraries">
    Check Programs and Features in Control Panel to verify Visual C++ and DirectX are installed.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Antivirus Removal">
    Ensure no third-party antivirus is running in the background. Check your system tray for any antivirus icons.
  </Accordion>

  <Accordion title="Game Resolution">
    Launch the game briefly to confirm windowed fullscreen mode is active, then close it completely.
  </Accordion>
</AccordionGroup>

<Check>
  Once all steps are completed, proceed to [Launching the Product](/valorant/launching).
</Check>