.KEYS File Extension
Nintendo Switch Encryption Keys
| Developer | Nintendo |
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What is a KEYS file?
A KEYS file is a configuration file that stores encryption keys used by software on the Nintendo Switch. It is saved in plain text and contains a list of key names paired with hexadecimal values, which are required to decrypt and access protected system files, game ROM data, and firmware components. Emulation and development tools reference the keys to correctly interpret and run Switch software outside of the original hardware environment.
More Information
Developers, emulator users, and researchers use KEYS files when analyzing system behavior or running software in a controlled environment. Emulators, such as Yuzu and Ryujinx, rely on these files to enable compatibility with games and system data.
Users typically obtain the keys by extracting them from their own console using specialized tools, such as Lockpick_RCM, often launched through a custom bootloader like Hekate. Since KEYS files provide access to encrypted content, they are sensitive, and users should handle them carefully.
How to open a KEYS file
KEYS files are not intended to be manually opened. Instead, compatible emulators automatically reference them when placed in the correct directory.
However, because they are text-based, you can open KEYS files with a text editor to view their contents. You should only modify them if you understand the required format, since incorrect entries can prevent the software from functioning properly.