How to fix 'lsass.exe Unable to Locate Component' error in Windows

The missing or damaged file may be a system file or a DLL (Dynamic Link Library) file. The lsass.exe process depends on these files to function properly. In this guide, TipsMake will show you how to fix "lsass.exe Unable to Locate Component" error in Windows.

1. Perform an SFC scan

As mentioned above, the "lsass.exe Unable to Locate Component" error can occur due to damage or the absence of the specific file that the lsass.exe process relies on.

Such problems can be fixed by performing a system scan using System File Checker (SFC), developed by Microsoft to check the system for inconsistencies and errors.

If a problem is identified, the SFC utility will fix it without requiring any significant input on your part. If the problem occurs due to corruption, this tool will fix it. In case you are using a third-party security program on your computer, you should scan the entire system with your antivirus program and check if that makes any difference.

2. Replace the oleaut32.dll file

According to multiple reports, this particular issue can also appear due to missing oleaut32.dll file required to launch the application. You can fix this by replacing the file with a healthy file from a trusted source.

To do this, you need to create a bootable CD or USB with the same version of Windows as your device. This way, you can get a verified and working copy of the file from the installation media. You'll also avoid any errors or conflicts that might occur if you try to replace files while Windows is running. However, you should create a backup of your system before proceeding, just to be safe.

Once you have created the boot drive and backup, follow these steps to continue:

1. Insert the CD or plug the bootable USB into your computer and perform a reboot.
2. During the boot process, you may need to access the BIOS or UEFI firmware settings to change the boot order and prioritize booting from the CD or USB drive. The best way to do this is to consult your computer's manual or search for instructions online on the manufacturer's website.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions to continue, and when your computer boots from the CD or USB boot, press R to bring up the Windows Recovery Control options.
4. Choose your preferred settings.
5. Now, access Command Prompt with admin rights and execute the command below. This will change the directory to where the oleaut32.dll file is located:
   

   cd c:windowssystem32

6. Now, execute this command to rename the existing file to oleaut32.old:
   

   ren oleaut32.dll oleaut32.old

7. Next, copy the files from the installation media to your device using the following command. You may need to change the d: drive letter to match your installation media.
   

   ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​copy d:windowssystem32oleaut32.dll c:windowssystem32

8. Finally, type "exit" in Command Prompt and close the utility.
9. Once done, remove the bootable CD or USB and restart your computer. After rebooting, you can now check if the problem is fixed.

3. Perform a system restore

You can also restore your system to a point where the error in question did not occur.

This can be done using the System Restore feature, which works by creating restore points on your computer, usually before performing any important operations. When you select a restore point, your system will roll back to the state it was in when the restore point was created, resolving errors in the process.

4. Install the latest update

If you have pending updates in your system, the article recommends that you take the time to install them. This is because Microsoft regularly releases updates that include fixes for known issues, and by updating your Windows system to the latest version, you can resolve the issue you're having. encountered immediately.

If this doesn't work, you can perform an in-place upgrade, which will reinstall Windows while keeping your files and applications intact. You will need Windows installation media (USB or DVD) to perform the repair installation.

The Isass.exe error can be frustrating, but the steps above should be able to restore your device to its normal state and avoid further problems. However, if none of the solutions work for you, it's best to contact Microsoft's official support team and report the problem to them.

Isabella Humphrey

Update 28 September 2023