How to Fix "VAC was unable to verify your game session" Error in CS2
I got the "VAC was unable to verify your game session" error in CS2 and found multiple ways to fix it.
Here’s what worked for me:
I just had to verify my game files. I opened Steam, right clicked on CS2 in my library, selected Properties, went to Local Files and clicked “Verify Integrity of Game Files”. Steam checked all the files and re downloaded any that were missing or corrupted.
If the above doesn’t work, try to repair the Steam service. Exit Steam completely, press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog and type “C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\bin\SteamService.exe” /repair. Then launch Steam and test CS2.
Another thing you can try is to end all Steam related tasks in Task Manager. Open Task Manager, find all Steam processes, end them, then launch Steam and CS2.
Some people also tried to load a bot game in competitive mode. Surprisingly this sometimes fixes the VAC verification issue.
Lastly make sure your antivirus isn’t interfering with VAC. Temporarily disable it and add exceptions for Steam and CS2 in its settings.
If none of the above worked, you can uninstall and reinstall both Steam and CS2. This is a more time consuming solution but it often fixes persistent VAC errors.
That's it, these fixes will resolve the "VAC was unable to verify your game session" error. Try them!
About the author
I'm the Head of Research at Clash.gg. With over 7 years of experience in the Counter-Strike niche, I have developed extensive knowledge of the game, its strategies, and the competitive scene. My insights are based on years of in-depth analysis and close involvement with the Counter-Strike community.