Visual Studio : Cannot import the following key file

 

When you have a signed project in TFS, every time a new person gets it out, they have this problem. So they create a new certificate, check it all in and the next person has the same problem. WTF.

The error is:

“Cannot import the following key file: xxx.pfx. The key file may be password protected. To correct this, try to import the certificate again or manually install the certificate to the Strong Name CSP with the following key container name: VS_KEY_blah”

Mr Google to the rescue. Found a number of “solutions” but then stumbled across one that worked.

In the project properties under “Signing”, click the dropdown arrow and click on the pfx file name. This invokes the password dialogue so you can type in the new password and Bingo!

All then compiles.

Enjoy!