In this article I will explain how to solve the following error: The type or namespace name 'ConfigurationManager' does not exist in the namespace 'System.Configuration' (are you missing an assembly reference?)
Most user’s face this error while working in Windows Forms, Console, Class Library or Windows Service Applications.
Cause
This issue generally happens in Windows Forms, Console, Class Library or Windows Service Applications as by default the System.Configuration Assembly is not referenced in these applications.
Solution
The solution is fairly simple i.e. to add reference of the System.Configuration Assembly to the project in the following way.
1. Right click on the project and click Add Reference option from the Context Menu.
2. From the Add Reference dialog box, click on .Net Tab and look for System.Configuration assembly. Once you find it simply select and click OK.
3. Once the reference is added, it will be shown in the References folder of the Solution Explorer.