8 downloads (last 7 days)
Boost your multimedia and gaming experience on Windows with DirectX, Microsoft's API tool designed to enhance graphics and sound.
Review by Allie M.
Pros
Cons
What is DirectX?
DirectX is a collection of APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) developed by Microsoft that handle tasks related to video game programming on the Windows platform. These APIs allow software developers to interact with computer hardware in a much more efficient and simplified way.
DirectX’s functions cover a wide range of areas in game creation, including 3D rendering, sound playback, reading keyboard/mouse/joystick input, and music playback. These functions are essential for the creation of games and interactive applications on Windows.
DirectX consists of several APIs, such as Direct3D for 3D graphics rendering, DirectSound for sound playback and recording, DirectInput for reading keyboard and mouse input, and DirectPlay for network communication. These APIs work together to provide a robust platform for game development.
What is it used for?
Direct3D
Direct3D is the DirectX API that is responsible for the rendering of 3D graphics. It is an essential tool for video game developers, as it allows them to create detailed and realistic three-dimensional worlds for their games. Direct3D also supports the rendering of 2D graphics, making it versatile for a wide range of applications.
In addition, Direct3D provides a series of functions for handling textures, lighting, and shading. These functions allow developers to create impressive visual effects that can greatly enhance the player’s experience.
Finally, Direct3D also offers support for shader programming, which allows developers to customize the rendering process to achieve unique visual effects. Shaders are small programs that run on the GPU and can manipulate graphics data in real time.
How to find out which DirectX I have
Check via dxdiag command
The easiest way to know which version of DirectX you have installed on your system is by using the DirectX diagnostic tool, known as dxdiag. To access it, simply type «dxdiag» in the search box of the Windows taskbar and press Enter. In the «System» tab of the window that opens, you’ll be able to see the version of DirectX you have installed.
Verification through system information
Another way to check the version of DirectX is through the System Information of Windows. To do this, type «System Information» in the search box of the taskbar and select the corresponding option. In the window that opens, look for «DirectX Version» in the «Components» -> «Display» section.
Check through Windows settings
Finally, you can also verify the version of DirectX through the Windows Settings. To do this, open the Windows Settings, go to «System» -> «About» and then click on «System Specifications» in the «Windows Specifications» section. Here, under «Device Specifications», you will be able to see the version of DirectX.
How to uninstall DirectX
Uninstallation through Control Panel
Unfortunately, DirectX cannot be uninstalled through the Control Panel of Windows like most programs. This is because DirectX is an integral part of the Windows operating systems and its uninstallation could cause operational problems.
System Restore
If you need to uninstall DirectX due to problems with it, one option is to use Windows’ System Restore to go back to a restore point where DirectX was working correctly. However, keep in mind that this will also reverse any other changes you’ve made to your system since that restore point.
Updating DirectX
Instead of trying to uninstall DirectX, a better option might be to update it to the latest version. This can fix any issues you’re experiencing with DirectX and also provide you with the latest features and performance improvements.
Which version is better?
DirectX 12: Performance and efficiency
The most recent version, DirectX 12, is considered the best in terms of performance and efficiency. This version allows game developers to have more direct control over the PC’s hardware, which can result in improved performance and greater energy efficiency. In addition, DirectX 12 also supports the latest graphics technology, such as real-time ray tracing.
DirectX 11: Compatibility and stability
On the other hand, DirectX 11 is known for its wide compatibility and stability. Although it does not offer the same performance improvements as DirectX 12, it is still compatible with a wide range of hardware and software. Therefore, if you have an older system or if you are playing older games, DirectX 11 might be the best option for you.
Choosing the DirectX version
Ultimately, the choice of DirectX version depends on your specific needs. If you have a newer system and want to make the most of your hardware, DirectX 12 could be the best choice. However, if compatibility and stability are more important to you, then you might prefer to stick with DirectX 11.
What DirectX does Windows 10 have?
DirectX 12: The default version
Windows 10 comes with DirectX 12 as the default version. This version offers several performance and efficiency improvements compared to previous versions of DirectX. In addition, DirectX 12 also supports the latest graphics technology, such as real-time ray tracing.
Backward compatibility
Although Windows 10 comes with DirectX 12, it is also compatible with older versions of DirectX. This means that if you have a game or an application that requires a specific version of DirectX, it should be able to run on Windows 10 without issues.
How to change the version?
Updating DirectX
The simplest way to change the DirectX version is through a Windows update. Microsoft regularly releases updates for DirectX as part of their Windows updates. Therefore, if you want to upgrade to the latest version of DirectX, you simply need to update your operating system.
Installing a Specific Version of DirectX
If you need to install a specific version of DirectX for a game or application, you can do this by downloading and installing the DirectX End-User Runtime Redistributable package from Microsoft. This package will install any DirectX component that may be missing from your system.
Using the DirectX Diagnostic Tool
Finally, you can also change the version of DirectX used by a specific game or application by using the DirectX diagnostic tool, dxdiag. In the «Display» tab of the dxdiag window, you can select the version of DirectX that you want the game or application to use.
How Can I Download DirectX?
Downloading through Windows Update
The easiest way to download DirectX is through Windows Update. Microsoft regularly releases updates for DirectX as part of their Windows updates. Therefore, if you want to download the latest version of DirectX, you simply need to update your operating system.
Downloading the DirectX End-User Runtime Redistributable Package
If you need to download a specific version of DirectX for a game or application, you can do this by downloading and installing the DirectX End-User Runtime Redistributable package from Microsoft. This package will install any DirectX component that may be missing from your system.
Downloading Through Microsoft’s Website
Finally, you can also download DirectX directly from the Microsoft website. Just go to the DirectX download page, select the version you want to download, and follow the instructions to install it.
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FAQ
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What does DirectX do?
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Is DirectX necessary for gaming?
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Can DirectX be uninstalled?
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What if my DirectX is outdated?
Ratings about DirectX
Very good
103 votes
1 review by registered users
(oculto)
217
118
It solved the problems I had with many multimedia
12 years ago
I really found it very useful to install could run some games that I could not before and also helped me with videos that could not play. You install it and voila, you also avoids previous versions, with this you have everything. No if in any case be limited or later if I find something that can not play, but for now I recommend it.
3 votes
Additional details
Size
0.28 MB
Latest version
9.29.1974.1
Language
English | Spanish
Total Downloads
5,389