For many Valorant players, especially on Windows 11, a strange bug has become a recurring nightmare: the PC suddenly freezes when tabbing out of the game. In most cases, only the mouse cursor remains responsive, forcing a hard restart and cutting matches short.
So why does this happen, and what can you do to fix it?
Root Causes
The issue typically comes down to how Windows handles GPU resources when switching focus between fullscreen applications and the desktop.
Valorant’s anti-cheat software, Riot Vanguard, adds another layer of system-level oversight, which can conflict with graphics drivers or third-party overlays.
Common culprits include:
- Fullscreen mode conflicts on multi-monitor setups.
- Outdated GPU drivers unable to handle rapid focus changes.
- Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling, a Windows feature that doesn’t always play nicely with Riot’s engine.
- Background apps (such as screenshot tools or multi-display software) that interfere with how Windows shifts focus.
After recent system updates, reports of these freezes have spiked — suggesting that compatibility changes in Windows 11 may have amplified the problem.
Effective Fixes
Players across Reddit forums, support threads, and community guides have tested several solutions. Here are the most consistent fixes:
- Disable Hardware-Accelerated GPU Scheduling
- Go to Settings > System > Display > Graphics > Default Graphics Settings.
- Toggle off “Hardware-accelerated GPU scheduling.”
- Restart your PC.
- Disable Fullscreen Optimizations
- Right-click the Valorant shortcut or executable.
- Select Properties > Compatibility.
- Check both “Disable fullscreen optimizations” and “Run this program as administrator.”
- Update Your GPU Drivers
- Use Nvidia GeForce Experience or AMD Adrenalin to install the latest graphics drivers.
- Outdated drivers are one of the most common causes of Alt+Tab freezes.
- Keep Windows Updated
- Install all pending Windows 10/11 updates. Compatibility patches often target gaming stability.
- Uninstall Conflicting Software
- Tools like Lightshot, screen mirroring, or certain overlays can cause conflicts. Remove them if issues persist.
- Match Resolution and Refresh Rates
- Set your desktop and Valorant to the same resolution and refresh rate.
- This reduces the “shock” when switching between desktop and game, especially on dual-monitor setups.
The Bottom Line
While Riot continues to refine Valorant’s performance on Windows 11, most freezes when tabbing out can be solved by disabling GPU scheduling and fullscreen optimizations, alongside keeping drivers and Windows fully updated.
Until an official patch eliminates the issue entirely, these community-tested fixes are the best way to ensure your PC doesn’t lock up mid-match — and that your next clutch isn’t lost to a frozen screen.
Written by:
Christian