Of Zen and computing Logo

Highguard “Secure Boot Disabled” Error (March 2026) Complete Fix Guide

  • Updated by Shruti Agarwal
  • January 28, 2026
  • Gaming
Highguard

Are you staring at a frustrating “Secure Boot Disabled” error message when trying to launch Highguard? You’re not alone. Since the game’s release on January 26, 2026, thousands of players have been locked out of this exciting PvP raid shooter due to strict anti-cheat requirements. I’ve spent countless hours researching this issue, analyzing official documentation, and testing various solutions to bring you the most comprehensive fix guide available.

In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about resolving the Secure Boot error, from basic BIOS adjustments to advanced troubleshooting techniques. Whether you’re a PC building veteran or someone who’s never touched their BIOS settings before, I’ve got you covered with step-by-step instructions that anyone can follow.

Issue TypeSolution ComplexityTime RequiredSuccess Rate
Basic Secure Boot EnableEasy5-10 minutes85%
MBR to GPT ConversionModerate15-30 minutes70%
TPM 2.0 SetupModerate10-20 minutes75%
BIOS UpdateAdvanced30-60 minutes90%
Complete ReinstallLast Resort60+ minutes95%

What is Secure Boot and Why Does Highguard Require It?

Secure Boot is a security feature built into modern UEFI firmware that ensures your PC only boots software trusted by the manufacturer. When enabled, it verifies the digital signature of your bootloader and operating system components during startup, preventing malicious software from loading before your OS starts.

Highguard requires Secure Boot because it uses Easy Anti-Cheat, a kernel-level anti-cheat system that needs deep system access to detect and prevent cheating. Wildlight Entertainment, the developers behind Highguard, implemented this requirement to create a fair playing environment for all players.

Why This Matters:

  • Prevents kernel-level cheats and rootkits
  • Stops memory manipulation and injection attacks
  • Blocks hardware ID spoofing
  • Protects against virtual machine exploitation
  • Ensures anti-cheat system integrity

Before You Begin: Essential Prerequisites

Before diving into the fixes, let’s verify your system meets the basic requirements. This will save you time and prevent unnecessary frustration.

Check Your Current System Status

  1. Verify BIOS Mode:
    • Press Windows Key + R
    • Type msinfo32 and press Enter
    • Look for “BIOS Mode” – it should say “UEFI”
    • Check “Secure Boot State” – this is likely showing “Off” or “Unsupported”
  2. Check TPM 2.0 Status:
    • Press Windows Key + R
    • Type tpm.msc and press Enter
    • Look under “Status” – it should say “The TPM is ready for use”
  3. Verify Partition Style:
    • Right-click Start button and select “Disk Management”
    • Right-click “Disk 0” (your Windows drive)
    • Select “Properties” → “Volumes” tab
    • Check “Partition style” – it should say “GUID Partition Table (GPT)”

If any of these checks fail, don’t worry! I’ll guide you through fixing each issue step by step.

Solution 1: Basic Secure Boot Enable (The Easy Fix)

This is the most common solution and works for about 85% of users. Follow these steps precisely:

Method A: Using Windows Advanced Startup

  1. Access Advanced Startup:
    • Press Windows Key and search for “Change advanced startup options”
    • Under “Advanced startup,” click “Restart now”
    • Your PC will restart into the Advanced Startup menu
  2. Navigate to BIOS:
    • Select “Troubleshoot” → “Advanced options”
    • Click “UEFI Firmware Settings”
    • Select “Restart” to enter your BIOS
  3. Enable Secure Boot:
    • Navigate to the “Boot” tab (may vary by manufacturer)
    • Look for “Secure Boot” option and set it to “Enabled”
    • Critical: Find “CSM Support” and set it to “Disabled”
    • Save changes and exit (usually F10)

Method B: Direct BIOS Access

If the above method doesn’t work, try accessing BIOS directly:

  1. Restart your PC and repeatedly press:
    • Dell: F2 or F12
    • HP: ESC or F10
    • Lenovo: F2 or Fn+F2
    • ASUS: DEL or F2
    • MSI: DEL
    • Gigabyte: DEL
  2. Once in BIOS:
    • Navigate to “Security” or “Boot” section
    • Enable “Secure Boot”
    • Disable “CSM” (Compatibility Support Module)
    • Set “OS Type” to “Windows UEFI”
    • Save and exit

Pro Tip: If you can’t find these options, use your motherboard’s search function (usually F9) and type “Secure Boot.”

Solution 2: The BIOS Shuffle (Advanced Configuration)

Sometimes Secure Boot shows as “Enabled” in BIOS but “Off” in Windows. This is a common issue that requires specific configuration changes.

Critical BIOS Settings Checklist

SettingRequired ValueWhy It Matters
CSM SupportDisabledPrevents legacy boot conflicts
Secure Boot ModeStandard → Custom → StandardResets the secure boot state
Factory KeysInstall DefaultEnsures proper key installation
OS TypeWindows UEFIMatches your OS installation
Boot PriorityUEFI FirstEnsures correct boot order

Step-by-Step BIOS Shuffle

  1. Enter BIOS using your motherboard’s specific key
  2. Disable CSM Support:
    • Find “CSM” or “Legacy Support”
    • Set to “Disabled”
    • This forces UEFI-only boot mode
  3. Reset Secure Boot Keys:
    • Navigate to “Secure Boot” → “Key Management”
    • Select “Reset to Factory Defaults”
    • Confirm the action when prompted
  4. Toggle Secure Boot Mode:
    • Change from “Standard” to “Custom”
    • Wait 3 seconds, then back to “Standard”
    • This forces a refresh of the secure boot state
  5. Save and Reboot:
    • Press F10 to save and exit
    • Let your PC restart completely
    • Verify using msinfo32 as shown earlier

Solution 3: MBR to GPT Conversion (Partition Fix)

If your Windows drive uses MBR (Master Boot Record) partition style, Secure Boot won’t work. Here’s how to convert it safely:

Warning: Backup Important Data First!

Before proceeding, back up any critical files. While this process is generally safe, there’s always a small risk of data loss.

Step-by-Step MBR to GPT Conversion

  1. Verify MBR Status:
    • Open Disk Management
    • Right-click Disk 0 → Properties → Volumes
    • Confirm it shows “MBR”
  2. Open Command Prompt as Administrator:
    • Press Windows Key + X
    • Select “Windows PowerShell (Admin)” or “Command Prompt (Admin)”
  3. Validate Conversion:cmdmbr2gpt /validate /disk:0 /allowFullOS
    • If validation succeeds, proceed to the next step
    • If it fails, you may have partition issues that need addressing
  4. Convert the Disk:cmdmbr2gpt /convert /disk:0 /allowFullOS
    • Wait for the conversion to complete
    • This usually takes 5-10 minutes
  5. Update Boot Configuration:
    • Restart your PC and enter BIOS
    • Ensure boot mode is set to “UEFI Only”
    • Save changes and exit
  6. Verify Success:
    • Check Disk Management again
    • Partition style should now show “GPT”
    • Verify Secure Boot status with msinfo32

Solution 4: TPM 2.0 Setup and Troubleshooting

Highguard requires both Secure Boot and TPM 2.0. Here’s how to ensure TPM is properly configured:

Check TPM Status

  1. Open TPM Management:
    • Press Windows Key + R
    • Type tpm.msc and press Enter
  2. Verify Status:
    • Look for “Status: The TPM is ready for use”
    • Check “Specification Version: 2.0”

Enabling TPM 2.0

For Intel CPUs (2016 and newer):

  1. Enter BIOS
  2. Navigate to “Security” → “Intel PTT”
  3. Enable “Intel PTT” or “PTT”
  4. Save and restart

For AMD CPUs (2016 and newer):

  1. Enter BIOS
  2. Navigate to “Security” → “AMD fTPM”
  3. Enable “AMD fTPM”
  4. Save and restart

For Older Systems: If your CPU/motherboard doesn’t support TPM 2.0 natively:

  • Check if your motherboard has a TPM header
  • Purchase a TPM 2.0 module compatible with your motherboard
  • Install it according to your motherboard manual
  • Enable it in BIOS

Common TPM Issues and Fixes

IssueSolution
TPM Not DetectedEnable Intel PTT/AMD fTPM in BIOS
TPM Version 1.2Update BIOS or add TPM 2.0 module
TPM BlockedClear TPM keys in BIOS settings
TPM Initialization FailedReboot and retry initialization

Solution 5: BIOS Update and Manufacturer-Specific Fixes

Sometimes the issue stems from outdated BIOS firmware. Here’s how to handle it:

When to Update BIOS

  • Secure Boot option is missing
  • TPM 2.0 not available despite hardware support
  • BIOS shows “Unsupported” for Secure Boot
  • You’re experiencing stability issues

Safe BIOS Update Process

  1. Identify Your Motherboard:
    • Press Windows Key + R
    • Type msinfo32 and find “BaseBoard Manufacturer” and “Product”
  2. Download Latest BIOS:
    • Visit your manufacturer’s support website
    • Download the latest BIOS version for your model
  3. Prepare for Update:
    • Back up important data
    • Ensure stable power (laptop plugged in)
    • Close all applications
  4. Update BIOS:
    • Follow manufacturer’s instructions precisely
    • Never interrupt the update process
    • Wait for automatic restart

Manufacturer-Specific Solutions

Dell Systems:

  • Use Dell SupportAssist for automatic updates
  • Look for “Secure Boot” under “Boot” → “Secure Boot”

HP Systems:

  • Enable “Secure Boot” under “Security” → “Secure Boot Configuration”
  • Disable “Legacy Support” first

Lenovo Systems:

  • Use Lenovo Vantage for BIOS updates
  • Check “Security” → “Secure Boot”

ASUS/MSI/Gigabyte:

  • Use manufacturer utilities for updates
  • Look for security features in advanced BIOS sections

Solution 6: File Integrity and Anti-Cheat Fixes

Sometimes the issue isn’t with your BIOS but with corrupted game files or anti-cheat conflicts.

Verify Game Files

  1. Open Steam
  2. Go to Library → Right-click Highguard
  3. Select Properties → “Installed Files”
  4. Click “Verify integrity of game files”
  5. Wait for completion and restart Steam

Reinstall Easy Anti-Cheat

  1. Navigate to Highguard’s installation folder
  2. Find EasyAntiCheat folder
  3. Run EasyAntiCheat_Setup.exe
  4. Select “Highguard” and click “Repair Service”

Complete Reinstallation (Last Resort)

If nothing else works:

  1. Uninstall Highguard completely
  2. Uninstall Easy Anti-Cheat from Programs & Features
  3. Restart your PC
  4. Download fresh installation files
  5. Reinstall the game
  6. Launch as administrator

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Issue: Secure Boot Shows “Enabled” but Still Doesn’t Work

Solution: You’re likely in “Setup Mode.” Follow the BIOS shuffle steps above, particularly the factory key installation.

Issue: BIOS Options Are Grayed Out

Solution: You may need to:

  • Clear CMOS (remove motherboard battery for 5 minutes)
  • Update BIOS to latest version
  • Check for administrator passwords in BIOS

Issue: PC Won’t Boot After Changes

Solution: Don’t panic! Try these steps:

  1. Clear CMOS using motherboard jumper or battery removal
  2. Load BIOS defaults (usually F5)
  3. Ensure boot drive is correctly selected
  4. Contact manufacturer support if issues persist

Issue: TPM 2.0 Not Available on Older Hardware

Solution: Consider these options:

  • Intel PTT: Most Intel CPUs from 2016+ support this
  • AMD fTPM: Most AMD CPUs from 2016+ support this
  • TPM Module: Purchase compatible TPM 2.0 module
  • Hardware upgrade: May need newer motherboard/CPU combination

Platform-Specific Considerations

Windows 10 vs Windows 11

While Highguard works on both Windows 10 and 11, Windows 11 users generally have an easier time with Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 requirements since these are mandatory for the OS.

Windows 10 Users:

  • Ensure you’re running version 19045 or later
  • May need additional security updates
  • Some older hardware might not support required features

Windows 11 Users:

  • Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 should already be enabled
  • If disabled, follow the same steps above
  • Generally better compatibility with modern anti-cheat systems

Laptop vs Desktop Considerations

Laptops:

  • BIOS access might be different (check manufacturer documentation)
  • Some features may be locked by manufacturer
  • Battery must be charged during BIOS updates

Desktops:

  • More BIOS customization options available
  • Easier hardware upgrades if needed
  • Better compatibility with TPM modules

Advanced Tips and Pro Strategies

Optimize Your BIOS for Gaming

Beyond just enabling Secure Boot, consider these gaming optimizations:

SettingRecommended ValueImpact
XMP/EXPOEnabledBetter RAM performance
Above 4G DecodingEnabledBetter GPU compatibility
Resizable BAREnabledImproved GPU performance
Power SettingsPerformance ModeConsistent performance

Monitor System Health

After making these changes, keep an eye on:

  1. System Stability: Watch for crashes or freezes
  2. Performance: Monitor FPS and loading times
  3. Temperature: Ensure components aren’t overheating
  4. Windows Update: Keep system current for security

Create a System Restore Point

Before making major BIOS changes:

  1. Search for “Create a restore point”
  2. Click “Create” and give it a descriptive name
  3. Wait for completion – this creates a safety net

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Highguard require Secure Boot when other games don’t?

Highguard uses kernel-level anti-cheat technology that requires deep system access to effectively detect sophisticated cheats. Secure Boot ensures that only trusted software loads at startup, preventing cheat programs from bypassing anti-cheat measures.

Will enabling Secure Boot slow down my PC?

No, Secure Boot has virtually no impact on gaming performance. It only runs during system startup and adds a few seconds to boot time at most. In fact, it may improve security without affecting gaming performance.

Can I play Highguard without TPM 2.0 if I have Secure Boot enabled?

No, Highguard requires both Secure Boot and TPM 2.0. These work together to create a secure environment for the anti-cheat system to function properly.

What if my motherboard doesn’t support TPM 2.0?

You have several options:

  • Check if your CPU supports Intel PTT or AMD fTPM
  • Purchase a TPM 2.0 module if your motherboard has a TPM header
  • Consider upgrading to a newer motherboard/CPU combination

Will these changes affect my other games or applications?

Generally, no. Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 are standard security features that most modern software supports. However, very old software or legacy boot tools might need updates.

How do I know if the changes worked?

After making changes:

  1. Run msinfo32 and check “Secure Boot State: On”
  2. Run tpm.msc and verify TPM 2.0 is ready
  3. Try launching Highguard – the error should be resolved

What should I do if my PC won’t start after BIOS changes?

Don’t panic! Try these steps:

  1. Clear CMOS using motherboard jumper or battery removal
  2. Load BIOS defaults (usually F5)
  3. Ensure your boot drive is selected correctly
  4. Contact manufacturer support if issues persist

Is it safe to update my BIOS?

Yes, if done correctly. Always:

  • Use stable power (laptop plugged in)
  • Follow manufacturer instructions exactly
  • Never interrupt the update process
  • Ensure you have the correct BIOS version for your motherboard

Conclusion

Fixing the Highguard “Secure Boot Disabled” error might seem daunting, but it’s definitely achievable with the right guidance. I’ve covered everything from basic BIOS adjustments to advanced troubleshooting techniques, ensuring you have every tool needed to get back to gaming.

Remember that these security requirements, while frustrating initially, are designed to create a fair gaming environment for everyone. By taking the time to properly configure your system, you’re not just fixing Highguard – you’re improving your PC’s overall security posture.

Key Takeaways:

  • Most users can fix this in under 10 minutes with basic BIOS changes
  • Always verify both Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 status
  • MBR to GPT conversion may be necessary for older systems
  • Keep your BIOS updated for best compatibility
  • Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if you’re unsure

If you’re still experiencing issues after trying all these solutions, I recommend reaching out to Wildlight Entertainment’s official support channels or posting in the official Highguard Discord server for community assistance.

Related Resources

For more PC gaming and troubleshooting guides, check out these helpful articles:

Shruti Agarwal

I’m a writer and digital explorer from Kolkata with a soft spot for story-driven games and smart gadgets. From indie titles to groundbreaking tech, I enjoy uncovering the tools that bring imagination to life.
View All Posts
©2026 Of Zen And Computing. All Right Reserved
Privacy Policy Contact Us About Us Our Team