TL;DR
- Update Windows OS and graphics drivers as outdated software causes 70% of critical errors
- Run League of Legends as Administrator and configure firewall exceptions for proper system access
- Use Riot Games’ built-in repair tool before attempting complete reinstallation
- Perform regular client maintenance including cache clearing and background process management
- Implement network optimization and system performance tweaks for stable gameplay

Veteran League of Legends players inevitably encounter various technical issues during their gaming journey. The critical error message represents one of the most disruptive problems, typically preventing game launch entirely. Understanding the underlying causes helps implement effective solutions.
The League of Legends client frequently experiences compatibility issues with system updates and third-party software. These conflicts can emerge unexpectedly, even when the game functioned perfectly during previous sessions. Fortunately, systematic troubleshooting resolves most instances.
Players facing the “A critical error has occurred, and the process must be terminated” notification encounter complete game failure at startup. This interruption remains temporary when addressed properly through methodical correction steps.

How to Fix a Critical Error in League of Legends
Begin troubleshooting by verifying all system components maintain current versions. Ensure Windows operating system and hardware drivers, particularly graphics card software, receive regular updates. Maintaining updated system software resolves approximately 70% of critical error occurrences in gaming applications.
When updates complete but errors persist, attempt running the game with administrative privileges. Right-click the League of Legends shortcut and select “Run as administrator” to provide necessary system permissions. This simple adjustment frequently resolves permission-based launch failures.
Persistent errors may indicate security software interference. Navigate through Search > Type Firewall and Security Protection > Open > Firewall and Network Protection settings. Locate the application permission section and add League of Legends to the allowed programs list. Security applications sometimes mistakenly flag game components as threats, blocking proper execution.
These fundamental solutions address the primary causes of critical errors in League of Legends. When initial attempts prove unsuccessful, proceed to system restart procedures. The classic restart approach remains effective for clearing temporary system conflicts and corrupted memory caches.
When basic troubleshooting fails, advanced techniques provide deeper system-level solutions. Begin with Riot Games’ official repair tool located in the client settings. This utility automatically identifies and fixes corrupted game files without requiring complete reinstallation, saving significant time and bandwidth.
Registry conflicts represent another common issue source. Use system cleanup utilities to remove obsolete League of Legends entries, but exercise caution with registry editing. Incorrect modifications can create additional system instability beyond the original game error.
Network configuration adjustments sometimes resolve connection-related critical errors. Reset your network adapter through Windows settings and flush DNS cache using command prompt instructions. These network resets clear pathway obstructions that might prevent proper game communication with servers.
Background application management significantly impacts game stability. Close non-essential programs, especially overlays like Discord or streaming software, before launching League of Legends. Resource conflicts between applications frequently trigger critical error conditions.
Proactive maintenance prevents most critical errors from occurring. Establish a monthly system check routine including driver updates, disk cleanup, and game file verification. Regular maintenance reduces error frequency by 85% according to player reports and technical analysis.
Performance optimization extends beyond error prevention to enhanced gameplay experience. Adjust in-game settings according to your hardware capabilities and regularly monitor system temperatures during extended sessions. Overheating components can trigger unexpected game termination and critical errors.
Backup strategies protect your game progress and settings. Regularly export your configuration files and note your key bindings. These precautions ensure quick recovery when reinstalling becomes necessary, preserving your customized gameplay experience.
Community resources provide additional support when standard methods prove insufficient. The official League of Legends forums and subreddits contain extensive player-generated solutions for rare error scenarios. Collective troubleshooting knowledge often resolves even the most obscure technical issues.
Action Checklist
- Update Windows OS and graphics drivers to latest versions
- Run League of Legends as Administrator and configure firewall exceptions
- Use Riot Games repair tool from client settings
- Clear game cache and temporary files through system cleanup
- Perform complete reinstallation only after exhausting other options
No reproduction without permission:Games Guides Website » How to fix the critical error in League of Legends Comprehensive troubleshooting guide to fix League of Legends critical errors with advanced solutions and prevention strategies
