If you don't want to move the file to a default folder, you can explicitly tell hactool where the keys are using the hactool -k path/to/your/prod.keys [other arguments] Use code with caution. Copied to clipboard 4. Verify Common Mistakes File Extension : Ensure the file isn't named prod.keys.txt
You can explicitly tell hactool where the keys are using the -k flag.
If you are getting an error stating the keys do not exist:
Prodkeys are cryptographic keys used by the Nintendo Switch to verify the authenticity of games and other content. These keys are generated by Nintendo and are used to sign and verify the integrity of game data. Prodkeys are essential for ensuring that games and other content on the Switch are genuine and have not been tampered with. hactool prodkeys does not exist
You can also place prod.keys in the same folder as the hactool.exe . 2. Use the Command Flag
If you don't have the file at all, you cannot "create" it from scratch manually—it must be dumped from your own hardware for legal and functional reasons. Dump from Switch : Use a tool like Lockpick_RCM
Look in the switch folder on your SD card. You will find a file named prod.keys (or sometimes keys.dat ). Step 2: Place the Keys in the Correct Directory If you don't want to move the file
To eliminate the error, you must generate a valid prod.keys file from your own Switch. Here’s how.
Now, let's get to the solutions. We'll go from the simplest check to the most permanent fix.
The prod.keys file is not in the directory hactool is searching, or in the correct configuration folder (e.g., ~/.switch/ on Linux/macOS or %APPDATA%\switch\ on Windows). If you are getting an error stating the
Once completed, turn off your Switch and insert your SD card into your computer.
This guide explains why this error happens and exactly how to fix it. Why This Error Happens