How to Fix DirectX Issues in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re a gamer or someone who relies on graphics-intensive applications, encountering DirectX issues on Windows 11 can be a real headache. DirectX is Microsoft’s collection of APIs that handle multimedia tasks, especially gaming graphics. When it malfunctions, you might see errors like “DirectX Runtime Error,” “DXGI_ERROR_DEVICE_HUNG,” or games simply crashing. Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered with this guide to troubleshoot and fix DirectX problems on Windows 11.

Let’s dive into the solutions, from basic checks to advanced fixes.

Step 1: Check Your DirectX Version

Before fixing anything, let’s make sure you’re running the right version of DirectX. Windows 11 typically ships with DirectX 12, but some apps might require older versions like DirectX 9 or 11.

• How to Check:

1. Press Win + R to open the Run dialog.

2. Type dxdiag and hit Enter.

3. The DirectX Diagnostic Tool will open. Look under the “System” tab for the “DirectX Version” field.

If it says DirectX 12, you’re up to date. If an app needs an older version, Windows 11 should automatically support backward compatibility—but we’ll address that later if needed.

Step 2: Update Windows 11

DirectX updates are bundled with Windows updates, so an outdated system could be the culprit.

• How to Update:

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.

2. Go to Windows Update > Check for updates.

3. Install any available updates, especially those labeled “Feature Update” or “Cumulative Update.”

4. Restart your PC after installing.

This ensures you have the latest DirectX components and system fixes.

Step 3: Update Your Graphics Drivers

DirectX relies heavily on your GPU, so outdated or corrupted graphics drivers can cause issues.

• How to Update:

1. Right-click the Start button and select Device Manager.

2. Expand Display adapters, right-click your GPU (e.g., NVIDIA, AMD, Intel), and choose Update driver.

3. Select Search automatically for drivers.

• If no update is found, visit your GPU manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel) and download the latest driver manually.

1. Install the driver and reboot.

Pro tip: Use tools like NVIDIA GeForce Experience or AMD Radeon Software for automatic updates if available.

Step 4: Reinstall DirectX Runtime

Some older games need legacy DirectX components (like DirectX 9) that aren’t installed by default on Windows 11. You can grab them manually.

• How to Reinstall:

1. Visit the official Microsoft website and search for the “DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer.”

2. Download the installer (dxwebsetup.exe).

3. Run it, follow the prompts, and let it install missing components.

4. Restart your PC.

This won’t overwrite DirectX 12 but adds older libraries if they’re missing.

Step 5: Verify Game Files (If It’s Game-Related)

If the issue is specific to a game, corrupted files might be to blame—not DirectX itself.

• For Steam:

1. Open Steam, right-click the game in your Library, and select Properties.

2. Go to Installed Files > Verify integrity of game files.

3. Wait for it to finish and relaunch the game.

• For Other Platforms:Check the game’s launcher (e.g., Epic Games, Microsoft Store) for a similar “repair” or “verify” option.

Step 6: Run the System File Checker (SFC)

Corrupted Windows system files can mess with DirectX. Let’s fix that.

• How to Run SFC:

1. Press Win + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.

2. Type sfc /scannow and press Enter.

3. Wait for the scan to complete (it might take 10-15 minutes). Restart if it finds and fixes anything.

Step 7: Adjust Graphics Settings

Sometimes, DirectX errors stem from overtaxing your GPU. Lowering settings can help.

• In games, try switching between DirectX versions (e.g., DX11 instead of DX12) if the option exists.

• Reduce resolution, shadows, or anti-aliasing in the game’s graphics menu.

Step 8: Perform a Clean Boot

Background apps might interfere with DirectX. A clean boot isolates the problem.

• How to Do It:

1. Press Win + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.

2. Under the Services tab, check Hide all Microsoft services, then click Disable all.

3. Go to the Startup tab, open Task Manager, and disable all startup items.

4. Restart your PC and test the app or game.

If it works, re-enable services one by one to find the culprit.

Step 9: Reinstall the Problematic App or Game

If all else fails, the issue might be with the app itself, not DirectX.

• Uninstall it via Settings > Apps > Installed apps.

• Reinstall it from its official source (Steam, Microsoft Store, etc.).

Final Resort: Reset or Reinstall Windows 11

If nothing works, a fresh start might be needed. Use Settings > System > Recovery > Reset this PC to keep files but wipe apps and settings. Alternatively, do a full reinstall with a Windows 11 ISO from Microsoft’s site.

Wrapping Up

DirectX issues in Windows 11 can stem from outdated drivers, missing components, or system conflicts. Start with the basics—updates and drivers—then work your way through these steps. Most problems resolve without drastic measures, so don’t lose hope!

Have a specific DirectX error code? Let me know in the comments, and I’ll tailor a fix for you. Happy gaming (or working)!