How to Create a New Default SOLIDWORKS Toolbox or Hole Wizard Folder

The SOLIDWORKS Data folder contains files used by the SOLIDWORKS Hole Wizard and Toolbox, including hardware library, configuration data, and database files required for inserting standard components. Under certain circumstances, it may be necessary to recreate this folder to restore a clean, default Toolbox environment. 

You may need to recreate the default SOLIDWORKS Data Folder in the following situations:  

• • Side-by-side SOLIDWORKS installations using the same data folder: 
    Multiple SOLIDWORKS versions were installed on the same machine but were configured to use the same SOLIDWORKS Data folder instead of separate version-specific folders. 
  • Version mismatch between SOLIDWORKS and the Toolbox database: 
    A newer version of SOLIDWORKS upgraded the existing SOLIDWORKS Data folder, preventing older installed SOLIDWORKS versions from accessing Toolbox or Hole Wizard due to a version incompatibility. 
    
    NOTE: If you only have one version of SOLIDWORKS installed, then you can simply upgrade the existing toolbox database to the current version. 
  • Corrupted Hole Wizard / Toolbox database or missing files: 
    The Toolbox files or database may become corrupted due to unexpected shutdowns, network interruptions, manual edits, or other environmental issues. 
  • Reverting a customized Toolbox back to the default configuration: 
    The existing Toolbox may contain custom hardware, modified properties, or altered standards that need to be removed to restore a clean default environment. 
  • Testing or troubleshooting purposes: 
    A temporary default Toolbox may be required to isolate issues or confirm whether behavior is related to a customized or corrupted Toolbox. 

Important: Before recreating the SOLIDWORKS Data folder, it is recommended to back up the existing folder if it still exists. The SOLIDWORKS Data folder may contain custom Toolbox components, modified hardware standards, or other configuration changes that could be needed later. This ensures the data can be referenced or restored if needed.