Fixing start up error message: FeatureWorks, SolidWorks database is missing. Complete functionality will not be available.

This article describes how to resolve the following message that pops-up when starting SOLIDWORKS, titled “FeatureWorks” with “SolidWorks database is missing. Complete functionality will not be available.”

Problem

On SOLIDWORKS startup, a pop-up dialog titled “FeatureWorks” with “SOLIDWORKS database is missing. Complete functionality will not be available.”

Background Information

This issue arises when SOLIDWORKS cannot locate the swbrowser.sldedb file that is contained within the Toolbox.

Root Cause

This may happen, but is not limited to when a user may have upgraded their SOLIDWORKS installation but did not upgrade their Toolbox and/or select an appropriate Toolbox location.

Options For Repair

1. Check that the Toolbox Data location is accurate and points to the correct location and version of the swbrowser.sldedb file.

OK the message and go to Tools > Options > Hole Wizard/Toolbox to verify/correct this.

2. Check that you can browse to the location of the swbrowser.sldedb file.

3. Perform a repair on the installation if the previous two steps do not resolve the problem.

4. If the problem persists and you have a standalone installation of SOLIDWORKS and have not created user defined standards in Toolbox, remove and reinstall SOLIDWORKS with a new Toolbox.