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BCryptHash Could Not be Located: 7 Ways to Fix it
Replace the affected DLL for a quick fix
4 min. read
Updated onApril 2, 2024
updated onApril 2, 2024
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We recently came across theMcUICnt.exe Entry Point not found, The procedure entry point BCryptHash could not be located in the dynamic link library bcrypt.dllerror on several devices, some running Windows 7.
On closer inspection, the problem appeared to be withbycrypt.dll, a system file. BCryptHash is an encryption algorithm used to store critical data securely. As perMicrosoft’s official page, BCryptHash works only on Windows 10 or later iterations of the OS.
So, to start with, make sure your PC meets the minimum system requirements for BCryptHash.
How do I fix the BCryptHash could not be located error?
1. Use a DLL repair tool
Your primary approach when any error message lists a DLL should be to use aneffective DLL repair tool, as it can identify replacements automatically.
2. Copy the DLL from another PC
If you have another PC running the same Windows iteration and architecture (32-bitor64-bit), moving a copy ofbcrypt.dllwould also work. The file is stored in:C:\Windows\System32
On the other PC, locate thebcrypt.dllfile and move it to an external drive. Now, rename the existingbcrypt.dllon the affected PC asbcrypt.old.dll, and finally, transfer the DLL from the external drive to theSystem32folder.
Remember not to delete the existing DLL (that we renamed) unless the new one works fine, and you don’t receive theBCryptHash could not be locatedanymore.
3. Run the DISM and SFC scans
Given thatcorrupt system files,bcrypt.dllbeing one, can trigger DLL errors, running the SFC scan andDISM commandsgot things running for us in 3 out of 5 cases.
This also helps whenvcomp100.dllis not found.
4. Uninstall McAfee programs
If it’s theMcUICnt.exeprocess throwing theBCryptHash could not be locatederror, check for any McAfee programs, utilities, and extensions and remove them. If thestandard uninstalldoesn’t work, use theMcAfee Consumer Product Removal (MCPR)tool.
Also, you could go with adedicated Windows software uninstallerto clear any leftover files and Registry entries.
5. Download the latest Visual C++ Redistributables
6. Update Windows
7. Perform an in-place upgrade
An in-place upgrade is similar toreinstalling Windows, but you don’t lose the stored files or apps. And when it comes to system DLLs likebcrypt.dll, an in-place upgrade will always fix things! A repair upgrade is also an effective fix againstwinmmbase.dllerrors.
So, you now know that running the SFC scan or uninstalling McAfee will help get rid of theBCryptHash could not be located, if it’s the antivirus to blame. And in case another program throws the error, downloadingVisual C++ Redistributablesor an in-place upgrade will do the trick!
Before you leave, discover some quick tips tofix DLL errors in Windows 11.
For any queries or to share what worked for you, drop a comment below.
More about the topics:DLL errors,System Files
Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim has always been fond of technology, be it scrolling through the settings on his iPhone, Android device, or Windows PC. He’s specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
Long-time Windows user, Kazim is ready to provide a solution for your every software & hardware error on Windows 11, Windows 10 and any previous iteration. He’s also one of our experts in Networking & Security.
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Kazim Ali Alvi
Windows Hardware Expert
Kazim is specialized in hardware devices, always ready to remove a screw or two to find out the real cause of a problem.
