Northwind Traders- gone

Question

I can't seem to download the northwind traders starter template from this site. I get an error code. Even when I open directly from access, "enabling content" freezes access beyond use. https://support.microsoft.com/en-US/Access/featured-access-templates

Answer 1

Yes, the online site has been broken for some time. It has been reported to the Access team. I believe the download site is outside of their control, though, so there's little they can do.

Of course, you can instantiate it from within Access, as described. That still works correctly.

Answer 2

Yes, instantiating the templates is slow because there is a LOT of configuration and preparation going on. The NW2 templates were created by a team of Access developers and incorporates features reflecting their actual real-world experience and design standards.

Answer 3

Hi Matthew, 

Sorry you’re going through this, and I appreciate you sharing what happened. 

As a forum moderator, I genuinely wish I could directly access your account or review the backend systems to diagnose and resolve this issue for you. However, our role here is limited to providing general guidance by offering clear next steps, sharing applicable resources, and directing you to the appropriate support channels so you can work with the right team to investigate further. 

I checked this on my side as well. When trying to download the Northwind Traders Starter template from the web page, I also received an error instead of the template file. The error suggests that the source file may no longer be available from the download location, or the link may currently be pointing to a backend file that is no longer present. 

However, I also tested opening the template directly from Microsoft Access. In my test, Access did take some time after selecting Enable Content, but the template eventually opened successfully. You can see the screenshot below for reference: 

• Because of that, please try opening the template directly from Access again and allow it a few minutes to finish loading after selecting Enable Content. 
• Also, please confirm that your Access version is supported. This template applies to: Access for Microsoft 365; Access 2024; Access 2021; Access 2019; Access 2016 

If your Access version is supported but the issue still persists, here are some steps you can try:

1/ Allow Access extra time to load 

• After selecting Enable Content, please wait around 3 to 5 minutes without clicking elsewhere. You can also check Task Manager to see whether Microsoft Access is still using CPU, memory, or disk activity. 

2/ Open the file from a local trusted folder 

• If possible, save or create the database in a local folder such as:  C:\AccessTest\Northwind\ 
• Then add that folder as a Trusted Location in Access:  File > Options > Trust Center > Trust Center Settings > Trusted Locations > Add new location 

3/ Test Access in Safe Mode 

• Close Access, press Windows + R, then run:  msaccess /safe 
• Try opening the template again. If it works in Safe Mode, the issue may be related to an Access add-in or startup component. 

4/ Disable Access add-ins if Safe Mode works 

• Go to File > Options > Add-ins > Manage: COM Add-ins > Go 
• Disable the add-ins, restart Access normally, and test again. 

5/ Update or repair Office 

• Please update Office/Access from File > Account > Update Options > Update Now 
• If the issue continues, try running Quick Repair first, then Online Repair if needed:  Windows Settings > Apps > Installed apps > Microsoft 365 / Microsoft Office > Modify 

Please understand that our initial reply may not always immediately resolve the issue. However, with your help and more detailed information, we can work together to find a solution.   

I hope this information is helpful. Should you have any further questions or need additional assistance, please feel free to share them in the comment below. I'm very happy to help.  

I'm looking forward to hearing your thoughts.

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