It first looks for any file you specified using the -k or --keyset argument. This is the most precise way to use the tool, as you dictate the exact location of the file.
You have not dumped your console's keys, or you have not moved the key file to your computer.
It wasn't referring to the key file itself. It was referring to the output. hactool prodkeys does not exist top
For anyone delving into the world of Nintendo Switch modding, game extraction, or file analysis, the tool known as hactool is likely an essential part of your toolkit. It's the go-to utility for decrypting, viewing, and extracting Nintendo Switch file formats, including XCI, NSP, NCA, and more. However, many users, especially those new to the scene, are almost immediately confronted with a puzzling and persistent error message:
Hactool is a command-line tool that requires a specific set of keys to "unlock" Switch files. By default, it looks for a file named prod.keys (or keys.txt ) in a hidden folder within your user profile. If that file is missing, misnamed, or in the wrong folder, the warning appears. 1. Place Keys in the Default Directory It first looks for any file you specified
Here is a comprehensive guide on why this happens, how to fix it, and how to properly set up your environment. Understanding the Error
Are you trying to extract a (NSP, XCI, or NCA)? It wasn't referring to the key file itself
He moved the file to the correct directory, renamed it, and deleted the extra extension that Windows had helpfully hidden from him.