“Encryption keys are missing” means Lichii found no usable prod.keys in its keys folder. It has five causes; check them in this order.
1. No prod.keys file is installed
Install the file with Tools > Install Decryption Keys. Download the newest ZIP from the Switch 2 prod keys and title keys page.
2. The keys are in the wrong folder
Lichii reads %APPDATA%\eden\keys on Windows and ~/.local/share/eden/keys on Linux, or user\keys in a portable install. A file in Downloads or next to lichii.exe is ignored.
3. The file name is wrong
The name must be exactly prod.keys. Windows hides extensions by default, so a file saved as prod.keys.txt looks right but is not. Turn on View > File name extensions in File Explorer to check.
4. The keys are outdated or incomplete
An old key set lacks the master keys newer firmware needs, and a truncated file lacks the components Lichii derives others from. Replace it with the newest set and compare its SHA-256 hash.
5. Lichii was not restarted
Lichii loads keys at start-up. Close it fully and open it again after any change to the keys folder.
If the error changes
This page is part of Switch 2 prod keys and firmware, where every prod keys and firmware version for Lichii is listed with its download link. Related guides are collected under Lichii key and firmware fixes.