Quick Summary
The Valorant error code E0500 indicates a connection problem, preventing you from connecting to the game servers. This usually points to issues on the client-side, somewhere between your machine and Riot's servers.
Common Causes
- Server Issues: Riot Games' servers might be experiencing outages or undergoing maintenance. This is beyond user control, but can be monitored.
- Firewall Interference: Your firewall or antivirus software could be blocking Valorant's connection to the servers.
- Network Connectivity Problems: Issues with your internet connection, such as packet loss, high latency, or a general outage, can prevent a stable connection to the game servers.
- Outdated Game Client: An outdated Valorant client can sometimes cause connection errors if it is not compatible with the current server version.
Step-by-Step Fixes
Method 1: Check Valorant Server Status
Step 1: Visit the Riot Games Service Status page (status.riotgames.com) to check if there are any known issues or ongoing maintenance affecting Valorant.
Step 2: Select Valorant as the game and your region to see specific information.
Step 3: If there are server issues, wait for Riot to resolve them. There's nothing you can do on your end until they are fixed.
Method 2: Restart Your Router and Computer
Step 1: Fully shut down your computer.
Step 2: Unplug your router and modem (if separate) from the power outlet.
Step 3: Wait 60 seconds.
Step 4: Plug the modem back in and wait for it to fully power on.
Step 5: Plug the router back in and wait for it to fully power on.
Step 6: Turn your computer back on and launch Valorant.
Method 3: Allow Valorant Through Your Firewall
Step 1: Open Windows Security.
Step 2: Click on 'Firewall & network protection'.
Step 3: Click on 'Allow an app through firewall'.
Step 4: Click 'Change settings'.
Step 5: Click 'Allow another app'.
Step 6: Browse to the Valorant installation directory (typically C:\Riot Games\Valorant\live) and select 'valorant.exe'.
Step 7: Also add 'Valorant-Win64-Shipping.exe' from the same directory.
Step 8: Ensure both 'Private' and 'Public' checkboxes are selected for both applications.
Step 9: Click 'OK'.
Method 4: Update Your Network Drivers
Step 1: Open Device Manager (search for it in the Windows search bar).
Step 2: Expand the 'Network adapters' section.
Step 3: Right-click on your network adapter.
Step 4: Select 'Update driver'.
Step 5: Choose 'Search automatically for drivers'.
Step 6: Windows will search for and install any available updates. Restart your computer after the driver update.
Method 5: Run Valorant as an Administrator
Step 1: Right-click on the Valorant desktop shortcut.
Step 2: Select 'Run as administrator'.
Step 3: Confirm the User Account Control prompt if it appears.
Method 6: Perform a Clean Boot
Step 1: Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog.
Step 2: Type 'msconfig' and press Enter.
Step 3: In the System Configuration window, go to the 'Services' tab.
Step 4: Check the box 'Hide all Microsoft services'.
Step 5: Click 'Disable all'.
Step 6: Go to the 'Startup' tab and click 'Open Task Manager'.
Step 7: In Task Manager, disable all startup items.
Step 8: Close Task Manager and click 'Apply' and 'OK' in the System Configuration window.
Step 9: Restart your computer.
Step 10: After restarting, try launching Valorant. If the issue is resolved, re-enable services and startup items one by one to identify the conflicting program.
Method 7: Contact Riot Support
Step 1: If none of the above solutions work, visit the Riot Games Support website (support.riotgames.com).
Step 2: Submit a ticket detailing the issue, including the error code and the troubleshooting steps you've already tried.
Step 3: Provide as much information as possible about your system and network configuration.