Issue abstract: Norton blocking Anticheat on kernel level. how can I add an exception there?
Detailed description: The anticheat on kernel level is Riot Vanguard. It is not working correctly if i have Norton installed. I tried to add its folder path as an exception at the “Antivirus” section and the “Scan” section but it did not help 
Product & version number: Norton AntiVirus
OS details: Win11
Hello @Linus_Wuerfel
sounds like Block venerable kernel drivers…event
Block vulnerable kernel drivers.========================================
AI Overview
Norton 360 blocks vulnerable drivers as a security measure to prevent malware from exploiting known security flaws in outdated drivers. These vulnerable drivers can be used by cybercriminals to gain elevated privileges on a system and potentially compromise sensitive information. By blocking these drivers, Norton helps protect users from sophisticated attacks that target these vulnerabilities.
Vulnerable drivers are security risks:
Drivers, which are software components that allow hardware to communicate with the operating system, can sometimes contain security flaws. These flaws can be exploited by malware to bypass security measures and gain access to the system.
Norton’s role in protection:
Norton 360 uses its threat database to identify and flag vulnerable drivers as potential risks.
Blocking vulnerable drivers:
When Norton detects a vulnerable driver, it prevents it from loading, which can sometimes cause issues with applications that rely on that driver.
Importance of blocking:
Blocking vulnerable drivers is crucial because they can be a gateway for malware to infiltrate a system. Attackers often target these vulnerabilities in advanced attacks.
Potential compatibility issues:
While blocking vulnerable drivers is a security benefit, it can sometimes cause compatibility issues with specific applications. Users may need to temporarily disable the protection or consult Norton support for advanced exception settings if they encounter problems.
Microsoft’s role:
Microsoft also maintains a list of vulnerable drivers that Windows actively blocks.
User actions:
Users can check their Windows Security settings to see if the Microsoft Vulnerable Driver Blocklist is enabled and potentially adjust settings to ensure Norton can effectively block vulnerable drivers.
AI responses may include mistakes.
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AI Overview
There have been numerous reports and discussions about potential conflicts between antivirus software like Norton 360 and Riot Vanguard, Riot Games’ kernel-level anti-cheat system used in games like Valorant and League of Legends
Specifically, the core of the issue lies in the fact that both Norton 360 and Riot Vanguard operate at a highly privileged level within the operating system known as the kernel level. This level of access is reserved for critical system components and allows for extensive control over the computer’s resources.
Since both programs are vying for control at this level, they can sometimes interfere with each other, leading to various problems. These can manifest as performance issues, game crashes, or even system instability.
While the exact reasons for the conflicts can be complex, several potential factors have been identified:
Riot Games suggests users add exceptions for Valorant and Riot Vanguard in their firewall settings to address potential blocking. Some users have also resorted to temporarily disabling their antivirus or making specific exceptions within their antivirus settings to allow Riot Vanguard to function correctly.
It’s crucial to acknowledge that disabling security software like Norton 360 carries inherent risks, as it leaves your system vulnerable to other threats. Ideally, game developers and security software providers should work together to ensure better compatibility between their products, but until then, users might face the difficult decision of prioritizing either security or game functionality.
AI responses may include mistakes.
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AI Overview
Whether you should disable Riot Vanguard depends on your priorities. Vanguard is an anti-cheat system that’s crucial for playing VALORANT and League of Legends, but it also operates at the kernel level, which can raise some security and compatibility concerns for some users.
Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Reasons to disable or uninstall Vanguard:
Concerns about kernel-level access:
Some users are uncomfortable with the level of access Vanguard has to their system, as it operates at the kernel level, which is a highly privileged area.
Potential compatibility issues:
Vanguard can sometimes interfere with other software, particularly those that also operate at the kernel level or require specific system permissions.
Security concerns:
While designed to protect the game, some users worry about the potential security risks associated with a kernel-level anti-cheat system, especially if there were to be a data breach.
Reasons to keep Vanguard enabled:
Essential for playing VALORANT and League of Legends:
Vanguard is required to play both games, and disabling or uninstalling it will prevent you from launching them.
Protects against cheating:
Vanguard is designed to prevent cheating in these games, ensuring a fair playing experience.
Recent updates improve control:
Recent updates have given users more control over Vanguard, including the ability to disable it via the system tray icon, which can be helpful for troubleshooting compatibility issues.
In conclusion:
AI responses may include mistakes.
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Caveat: I’m not familiar with Riot Games
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Please review: Contact Norton Support