Problem

When using the SOLIDWORKS Hole Wizard tool, users encounter the error
"SOLIDWORKS needs a folder to store user data for Hole Wizard".

This error occurs when the user does not have the necessary security permissions to write data to the Hole Wizard Favorites folder. SOLIDWORKS requires full permissions to this folder in order to store Hole Wizard data.

Solution

To fix this, the folder must be given the appropriate permissions with the steps below:

1. Access the File Locations tab of the System Options by going into Options > System Options > File Locations
2. Change the dropdown for the Show Folders For to Hole Wizard Favorites Database

3. Take note of this Folder location. Note: The folder specified in this location is the one that must have its read/write access permissions modified. If there is no folder specified, create one and add its location to this setting.

4. Navigate to the folder with Windows Explorer

5. Right-click on it and then choose Properties

6. Go into the Security tab to change the permissions 

7. Edit the System/User Permissions to allow full control

Once the folder has proper read/write access for the user, Hole Wizard information can be stored in it again, and the error will not appear next time the tool is used

For additional support, existing customers can submit a ticket or new customers can contact Hawk Ridge Systems.