Question
Issue: How to fix "lsass.exe - unable to locate component" error in Windows?
Hello. The “lsass.exe – unable to locate component” error message keeps appearing quite frequently on my Windows PC. Is there a way to fix this?
Solved Answer
Windows users sometimes see the “lsass.exe – unable to locate component” error. This error message indicates that Windows is unable to locate or load a particular file needed for the lsass.exe (Local Security Authority Subsystem Service) process to operate as intended. On a Windows device, the lsass.exe process is essential for maintaining security settings and user authentication. It is in charge of checking the accuracy of login credentials, implementing security policies, and guaranteeing the operating system's general security.
This error message might refer to either a system file or a Dynamic Link Library (DLL)[1] file as the missing or damaged file. The smooth operation of the lsass.exe process depends on these files. The stability and security of the Windows system might be impacted by a number of problems when one of these crucial files is missing or corrupted.
Users may suffer serious effects from this inaccuracy in a number of ways. In the first place, it may prohibit users from accessing their Windows accounts. Since lsass.exe is in charge of user authentication, getting this error can prevent you from using the system. Particularly for those who depend on their Windows device for work or daily duties, this can be a stressful and irritating experience.
Users usually need to take action to fix the missing or damaged file that lsass.exe depends on in order to resolve this issue. This could entail running System File Checker (sfc), fixing the system, or employing other troubleshooting techniques. Additionally, maintaining regular backups and keeping the Windows operating system updated might aid in preventing such issues from happening in the first place.
In this guide, you will find 4 steps that should help you fix “lsass.exe – unable to locate component” error in Windows. You can also run a system repair tool like FortectMac Washing Machine X9 that can fix most system errors, BSODs,[2] corrupted files, and registry[3] issues. Otherwise, follow the step-by-step instructions below.
Solution 1. Repair Corrupted System Files
Use Command Prompt commands to repair system file corruption:
- Open Command Prompt as administrator
- Use the following command and press Enter:
sfc /scannow
- Reboot your system
- If SFC returned an error, then use the following command lines, pressing Enter after each:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth
Solution 2. Install Windows Updates
- Click Start and select Settings.
- Go to the Windows Update section.
- Click Check for updates and wait.
- Go to the Advanced options and install optional updates.
- Reboot your system.
Solution 3. Replace the oleaut32.dll File
- Create a bootable installation CD or USB drive with the same Windows version as your device.
- Insert the bootable installation CD or USB drive into your computer and reboot.
- During boot, access BIOS or UEFI firmware settings to change the boot order to prioritize CD or USB drive (refer to your computer manual or manufacturer's website for instructions).
- Follow on-screen instructions and press R when your computer boots from the bootable installation CD or USB drive to access Windows Recovery Control options.
- Choose your preferred installation.
- Access the Command Prompt with administrator privileges and enter the following command to change the directory to where the oleaut32.dll file is located:
cd c:\windows\system32
- Rename the existing file to oleaut32.old by using this command:
ren oleaut32.dll oleaut32.old
- Copy files from the installation media to your device with this command (adjust the drive letter d: to match your installation media):
copy d:\windows\system32\oleaut32.dll c:\windows\system32
- Type exit in the Command Prompt and close the utility.
- Remove the bootable installation CD or USB and restart your computer.
- Upon reboot, check if the problem is resolved.
Solution 4. Use System Restore
System Restore is a feature in Microsoft Windows that allows users to revert their computer's state to a previous point in time. This can be helpful if you have made changes to your system that are causing problems.
- Press the Windows key + R on your keyboard to open the Run box.
- Type SystemPropertiesProtection and press Enter.
- Go to the System Protection tab.
- You will see the System Restore… button. Click it to run System Restore.
- Follow the prompts until you can select a restore point.
- Select the one you want (ideally before the issue started occurring) and go ahead with the process.
Repair your Errors automatically
ugetfix.com team is trying to do its best to help users find the best solutions for eliminating their errors. If you don't want to struggle with manual repair techniques, please use the automatic software. All recommended products have been tested and approved by our professionals. Tools that you can use to fix your error are listed bellow:
Protect your online privacy with a VPN client
A VPN is crucial when it comes to user privacy. Online trackers such as cookies can not only be used by social media platforms and other websites but also your Internet Service Provider and the government. Even if you apply the most secure settings via your web browser, you can still be tracked via apps that are connected to the internet. Besides, privacy-focused browsers like Tor is are not an optimal choice due to diminished connection speeds. The best solution for your ultimate privacy is Private Internet Access – be anonymous and secure online.
Data recovery tools can prevent permanent file loss
Data recovery software is one of the options that could help you recover your files. Once you delete a file, it does not vanish into thin air – it remains on your system as long as no new data is written on top of it. Data Recovery Pro is recovery software that searchers for working copies of deleted files within your hard drive. By using the tool, you can prevent loss of valuable documents, school work, personal pictures, and other crucial files.
Gabriel E. Hall is an expert troubleshooter who has been working in the information technology industry for years.
- ^ Dynamic-link library. Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
- ^ Chris Hoffman. Everything You Need To Know About the Blue Screen of Death. Howtogeek. Tech Insight Magazine.
- ^ Tim Fisher. What Is the Windows Registry?. Lifewire. Software and Apps.
