Highguard, the upcoming free-to-play PvP raid shooter, is almost ready to go live. But before you rush to download and jump into the action on PC, there’s one important thing you need to check. Your system must have Secure Boot enabled.
Even if your PC meets the minimum system requirements, Highguard may refuse to launch if Secure Boot is turned off. While most modern PCs ship with Secure Boot enabled by default, that’s not always the case, especially on older systems or custom-built rigs.
If you’re seeing launch errors or warnings, don’t worry. Here’s a complete, easy-to-follow guide on enabling Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 so you can play Highguard without issues.
Why Highguard Needs Secure Boot
Highguard relies on Easy Anti-Cheat, a kernel-level anti-cheat system. This type of protection works closely with Secure Boot to detect and block cheating tools at the system level.
Secure Boot ensures that only trusted software loads when your PC starts. If it’s turned off, Easy Anti-Cheat won’t function properly, and Highguard simply won’t let you in.
That’s why Secure Boot, along with TPM 2.0, is mandatory to play the game.
How to Check Secure Boot Status on Your PC
Before digging into your BIOS, it’s smart to check whether Secure Boot is already enabled.
Follow these steps:
- Press Windows + R to open the Run dialog.
- Type msinfo32 and press Enter.
- In the System Information window, look for Secure Boot State under System Summary.
- If it says On, you’re good to go.
If the status shows Off, Highguard won’t launch, and you’ll need to enable Secure Boot manually through the BIOS.
What to Do If Secure Boot Is Off
Enabling Secure Boot isn’t just a single click. It often involves adjusting BIOS settings and, in some cases, switching your BIOS mode to UEFI.
This process can vary depending on your system manufacturer, but the steps usually involve:
- Entering BIOS during startup
- Switching BIOS mode from Legacy to UEFI
- Enabling Secure Boot
- Saving changes and restarting
Be cautious here. Changing BIOS settings incorrectly can cause boot issues, so follow official instructions carefully.
How to Enable TPM 2.0 for Highguard
TPM 2.0 is another requirement tied closely to Secure Boot. It’s mandatory for Windows 11, so most Windows 11 systems already have it enabled. On Windows 10, however, it may still be disabled.
Here’s how to check TPM 2.0 status:
- Press Windows + R.
- Type tpm.msc and hit Enter.
- In the TPM Management window, check the Status section.
If it says “The TPM is ready for use”, you’re all set.
If it says “TPM not ready for use”, there’s more work ahead.
Check Your Windows Drive Partition Style
If TPM isn’t ready, your system’s partition style could be the issue.
Follow these steps:
- Right-click the Start button and select Disk Management.
- Right-click your C: drive and choose Properties.
- Go to the Hardware tab and click Properties again.
- Open the Volumes tab.
- Check the Partition Style.
You’re looking for GPT. If your drive is using MBR, Secure Boot won’t work properly.
Converting from MBR to GPT is possible, but it’s risky. Always back up your data and follow Microsoft’s official guidance before attempting it.
Enabling TPM 2.0 in BIOS
The exact steps to enable TPM 2.0 depend on your motherboard brand. Some manufacturers label it as:
- fTPM
- PTT
- Security Device Support
You’ll need to visit your motherboard manufacturer’s website for precise instructions. Once TPM 2.0 is enabled, you can then enable Secure Boot from the BIOS using UEFI mode.
Why Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 Are Mandatory
Secure Boot blocks unauthorized software from loading at startup, protecting against cheats and hardware-level exploits. TPM 2.0 adds another layer by handling encryption and system integrity at the hardware level.
Together, these features create a safer online environment. That’s why Highguard requires them, just like other major shooters.
Games such as Battlefield 6 and Call of Duty also enforce Secure Boot for their anti-cheat systems.
Can You Play Highguard Without Secure Boot?
No. Secure Boot is not optional.
If it’s disabled, Highguard won’t launch. This requirement is directly tied to Easy Anti-Cheat, and there’s no workaround for online play.
Final Thoughts
Secure Boot and TPM 2.0 might sound intimidating, but most modern PCs already support them. Once enabled, you won’t just be ready for Highguard. You’ll also be better protected across other online games and future Windows updates.
Now that you know how to fix Secure Boot issues, are you planning to jump into Highguard on day one?
Share this guide with your squad, and let us know your thoughts in the comments!
