League of Legends: Introducing Vanguard - The New Anti-Cheat System

TLDRLeague of Legends is implementing Vanguard, a new anti-cheat system that operates at the kernel level. It runs 24/7 and has major consequences for the game, including the removal of custom skins and maps. Vanguard is controversial but more effective than other anti-cheat systems.

Key insights

🔒Vanguard is a proprietary software invented by Riot Games and operates at the kernel level, giving it complete control over the computer's operating system.

💻Vanguard runs 24/7 and constantly monitors the PC, making it more difficult for people to cheat. However, it may significantly impact PC performance and require BIOS settings changes.

🛡️Vanguard is more intrusive compared to other anti-cheat systems, as it launches when the PC boots and cannot be closed without a PC restart. It also interferes with tools used by content creators.

🌐Over 300 games use kernel-level anti-cheat systems, including popular titles like Apex Legends and Call of Duty. Vanguard is not unique in this regard.

⚖️While Vanguard enhances game quality and competitive integrity, concerns about data privacy and ownership by a Chinese company exist. It's up to individuals to decide if they are comfortable with Vanguard.

Q&A

What is Vanguard in League of Legends?

Vanguard is a proprietary anti-cheat software developed by Riot Games. It operates at the kernel level and constantly monitors the PC while the game is running.

How does Vanguard impact PC performance?

Vanguard running in the background 24/7 may impact PC performance for some users. They may experience issues and need to make changes in BIOS settings to run the game smoothly.

Can Vanguard be closed without restarting the PC?

No, once Vanguard is closed, it requires a PC restart to launch it again. This is a security measure to ensure constant monitoring of the PC for cheating.

Does Vanguard interfere with content creation?

Yes, Vanguard interferes with tools used by content creators, such as skin spotlights and custom maps. This may impact their ability to produce certain content.

Are there concerns about data privacy with Vanguard?

There are concerns about data privacy with any anti-cheat software, including Vanguard. Riot Games claims to only collect necessary data for League of Legends, but some individuals may still have concerns.

Timestamped Summary

00:00League of Legends is implementing Vanguard, a new anti-cheat system.

00:23Vanguard operates at the kernel level, giving it complete control over the computer's operating system.

01:01Vanguard runs 24/7 and constantly monitors the PC to prevent cheating.

03:25Vanguard cannot be closed without restarting the PC, which is a security measure.

04:58Vanguard may impact PC performance and require changes in BIOS settings for some users.

06:48Vanguard interferes with tools used by content creators, such as skin spotlights and custom maps.

08:21Concerns exist about data privacy with Vanguard, as it is developed by Riot Games, owned by Tencent.

09:14Individuals can decide whether they are comfortable with Vanguard and its impact on the game.