Highguard “Secure Boot Disabled” Error: Fix Step-by-Step (June 2026)

The Highguard “Secure Boot Disabled” error prevents players from launching this new PvP raid shooter due to the game’s strict Easy Anti-Cheat requirements. This comprehensive guide provides every working solution to enable Secure Boot and TPM 2.0, from basic BIOS adjustments to advanced troubleshooting methods that actually work.

Quick Fix Summary

Solution	Difficulty	Success Rate	Time Required
BIOS Secure Boot Enable	Medium	75%	10-15 minutes
TPM 2.0 Activation	Medium	65%	15-20 minutes
Partition Conversion (MBR to GPT)	Hard	40%	30-60 minutes
Easy Anti-Cheat Reinstall	Easy	30%	5-10 minutes

Understanding the Highguard Secure Boot Requirement

Highguard, developed by Wildlight Entertainment (creators of Apex Legends and Titanfall), implements aggressive anti-cheat measures requiring both Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 to be enabled. These security features work together to create a trusted computing environment that prevents cheating software from interfering with the game.

According to official sources, this requirement is non-negotiable – you cannot play Highguard without enabling these security features. The game’s kernel-level anti-cheat system needs these protections to function properly, similar to other modern shooters like Battlefield 6 and Call of Duty.

Step-by-Step Secure Boot Enablement Guide

Step 1: Check Your Current System Status

Before diving into BIOS settings, verify your current configuration:

1. Press Windows + R and type msinfo32
2. Look for “BIOS Mode” – it must say UEFI
3. Check “Secure Boot State” – this should show On if properly configured

If Secure Boot State shows “Off” or “Unsupported,” proceed with the following fixes.

Step 2: Verify Partition Style (Critical Prerequisite)

Secure Boot only works with GPT partition style, not the older MBR format:

1. Right-click Start button and select Disk Management
2. Right-click Disk 0 (your Windows drive) and choose Properties
3. Go to the Volumes tab
4. Check Partition Style – it must say GPT

If it shows MBR: You’ll need to convert your drive, which requires backing up data and using Windows installation media. This is complex – consider professional help if uncomfortable with this process.

Step 3: BIOS Configuration for Secure Boot

Access your BIOS by restarting your PC and pressing the designated key (usually F2, F10, or Del during startup). Follow these precise settings:

Essential BIOS Settings:

Setting	Location	Required Value
CSM Support	Boot/Security	Disabled
Secure Boot Mode	Security	Standard (switch to Custom then back)
Factory Keys	Security	Install Factory Default Keys (select YES)
Boot Mode	Boot	UEFI Only

Critical Note: CSM (Compatibility Support Module) must be disabled for Secure Boot to function properly. This is where most users get stuck – BIOS may show Secure Boot as “Enabled” but Windows reports it as “Disabled” until CSM is turned off.

Step 4: TPM 2.0 Configuration

TPM 2.0 is equally required for Highguard:

1. Press Windows + R and type tpm.msc
2. Check if status shows “The TPM is ready to use”
3. If not enabled, access BIOS and look for:
   • Intel PTT (Intel processors) or AMD fTPM (AMD processors)
   • Enable this feature in the Security/Advanced tab
   • Save and restart

Step 5: Windows Recovery Method (Alternative Approach)

If your BIOS doesn’t support direct Secure Boot configuration:

1. Go to Settings > Update & Security > Recovery
2. Under “Advanced startup,” select Restart now
3. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced options > UEFI Firmware Settings
4. Restart to access BIOS/UEFI settings
5. Follow the BIOS configuration steps above

Advanced Troubleshooting Methods

File Integrity Verification

Corrupted game files can cause persistent errors:

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

Easy Anti-Cheat Reinstallation

Incompatible or corrupted Easy Anti-Cheat installations require complete reinstallation:

1. Go to Control Panel > Programs and Features
2. Uninstall all versions of Easy Anti-Cheat
3. Navigate to Steam folder: steamapps\common\Highguard
4. Run EasyAntiCheat_Setup.exe as administrator
5. Reinstall Highguard completely if issues persist

Hardware Compatibility Issues

Some older systems may lack hardware support:

For older motherboards (pre-2016):

• Check manufacturer website for TPM 2.0 support
• Some motherboards support TPM through software workarounds
• Consider hardware TPM module if motherboard has TPM header

For legacy Windows 10 versions:

• May require Windows 11 upgrade or Windows 10 version 1903+ with security updates
• Some systems need BIOS firmware updates from manufacturer

Recent Updates and Developer Response

Wildlight Entertainment released Update 1.002 on January 27, 2026, addressing stability issues but not specifically targeting Secure Boot problems. The official Discord server indicates developers are “investigating additional issues” and more patches are expected throughout June.

According to the official Twitter account, the development team acknowledges user frustration but maintains the security requirements are essential for fair play.

Community Insights and Common Issues

Based on Steam Community discussions, players report several common challenges:

• BIOS Navigation Difficulty: Many users find BIOS interfaces intimidating
• Hardware Limitations: Older systems may lack TPM 2.0 support
• Dual Boot Complications: Multiple operating systems can complicate Secure Boot
• Corporate/Locked Systems: Work computers often restrict BIOS access

Platform-Specific Considerations

Windows 11 Users

Most Windows 11 systems already have Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 enabled by default. Verify settings but minimal changes should be needed.

Windows 10 Users

May require additional steps:

• Ensure Windows 10 version 1903 or later
• Install latest security updates
• Some systems need manual BIOS updates

Laptop Users

Laptop BIOS access varies by manufacturer:

• Dell: F2 during startup
• HP: ESC or F10
• Lenovo: Fn+F2 or Enter
• ASUS: F2 or Del

Prevention and Future-Proofing

Once you successfully enable these features:

1. Keep BIOS Updated: Regular firmware updates improve compatibility
2. Document Settings: Take photos of your BIOS configuration
3. Create System Restore Points: Before making major changes
4. Monitor Official Channels: Join the official Discord for real-time updates

Alternative Solutions and Workarounds

If you cannot enable Secure Boot due to hardware limitations:

1. Hardware Upgrade: Consider motherboard upgrade for older systems
2. Cloud Gaming: Use services like GeForce Now or Xbox Cloud Gaming
3. Alternative Games: Explore shooters with less strict requirements

Community Resources

Stay connected with the Highguard community for the latest fixes and support:

• Official Discord: discord.com/invite/playhighguard – Real-time developer interaction
• Official Twitter: @PlayHighguard – Official announcements
• Developer Website: wildlight.gg – Support and company information

FAQ

Can I play Highguard without Secure Boot enabled?

No, Secure Boot is absolutely required to play Highguard. The game’s Easy Anti-Cheat system depends on this security feature and will not launch without it. This requirement is enforced at the system level and cannot be bypassed.

Why does Highguard require TPM 2.0?

TPM 2.0 provides hardware-based security that works with Secure Boot to create a trusted environment. This prevents cheating software from manipulating the game at a deep system level, ensuring fair play for all users.

My BIOS doesn’t have Secure Boot options. What should I do?

If your BIOS lacks Secure Boot support, your motherboard may be too old (pre-2016 typically). Options include: checking for BIOS updates from the manufacturer, upgrading your motherboard, or using cloud gaming services instead.

Will enabling Secure Boot affect my other games or programs?

Generally, Secure Boot doesn’t affect legitimate games or software. However, some older programs or dual-boot configurations might need adjustments. Most modern applications work fine with Secure Boot enabled.

How long does the entire fix process take?

For most users, the complete process takes 15-30 minutes. Complex cases involving partition conversion or hardware upgrades can take 1-2 hours. The BIOS configuration itself typically takes 10-15 minutes once you access the settings.

What if I accidentally mess up my BIOS settings?

BIOS settings can usually be reset to defaults. Most BIOS interfaces have a “Load Optimized Defaults” or “Load Fail-Safe Defaults” option. Document your original settings before making changes for easy restoration.

Are there any risks involved in enabling Secure Boot?

The risks are minimal but include potential compatibility issues with very old software or dual-boot setups. Always back up important data before making BIOS changes, and create a system restore point in Windows.

Conclusion

The Highguard Secure Boot Disabled error is frustrating but fixable for most users with modern hardware. By following this comprehensive guide, you should be able to enable the required security features and get back to enjoying this exciting new PvP raid shooter.

Remember that these security requirements, while inconvenient, ultimately protect the gaming community from cheaters and ensure a fair playing field for everyone. Stay updated through official channels as Wildlight Entertainment continues to improve the launch experience.

Bookmark this guide for future reference, and share it with fellow Wardens struggling with the same issues. The battlefield awaits – get your system secured and join the fight for the mythical continent!