

Games that use DirectX can use multimedia accelerator features built-in to your hardware more efficiently which improves your overall multimedia experience. The tool is a set of components in Windows that allows software, primarily and especially games, to work directly with your video and audio hardware. Take note especially on differences in Windows 10 and Windows 8 or Windows 7 versus previous versions of Windows. Here's more on how each version of DirectX works across the Windows family. DirectX 11 includes security and performance updates, along with many new features across all technologies, which can be accessed by applications using the DirectX APIs.Īll versions of Windows do not support all versions of DirectX.

Then, type the following in the box and press Enter (or click “OK.Microsoft DirectX 12 (DX12) is a group of technologies designed to make Windows-based computers an ideal platform for running and displaying applications rich in multimedia elements such as full-color graphics, video, 3D animation, and rich audio. To do that, first, open the Run dialog box by pressing Windows+R. If you’d like to see what DirectX version your system is currently running, use a command in your the Run dialog box and you’ll see the version number. RELATED: What to Do When Your PC Game Lags Check the Current DirectX Version on Windows 11 Earlier versions include DirectX 11, 10, 9, and 8, but Windows 11 has always come with DirectX 12 preinstalled. The latest version may patch issues in the version you have installed, allowing you to have a bug-free experience.Īs of February 2023, the latest DirectX version is 12.

You may also want to update DirectX if you have an issue with your PC, particularly graphics-related problems. Since DirectX plays a role in all kinds of multimedia functions, an updated version of DirectX can also improve your experience in things like watching videos. You can expect improvements in FPS and animations in your games. The main reason to update DirectX is that a newer version enhances the gaming experience on your Windows 11 PC.
