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How to Fix DirectX 12 Not Working Errors on Windows 11: Step-by-Step Solutions

DirectX 12 is a crucial component for many games and graphic-intensive applications on Windows 11. However, sometimes you may encounter errors that prevent DirectX 12 from working properly. These issues can cause poor performance or stop games and apps from running altogether.

This guide will walk you through simple and effective steps to fix DirectX 12 not working errors. Each solution is explained clearly so even beginners can follow along without confusion.

By following these instructions carefully, you can resolve common problems and get your system running smoothly again. Let’s begin with some quick checks before diving into detailed troubleshooting.

Whether you are a casual user or a gamer, this guide covers everything you need to know to fix DirectX 12 issues on Windows 11.

Quick Note: Prerequisites and Basic Checks

Before starting the troubleshooting process, it’s important to ensure a few basic things are in place. These quick checks can save you time and help identify simple problems.

  • Check Windows Version: DirectX 12 is supported on Windows 11, but make sure your system is fully updated. Go to Settings > Windows Update and install any pending updates.
  • Verify Graphics Card Compatibility: Not all graphics cards support DirectX 12. Confirm your GPU supports DirectX 12 by visiting the manufacturer’s website or checking through the DirectX Diagnostic Tool.
  • Run the DirectX Diagnostic Tool: Press Win + R, type dxdiag, and press Enter. This tool shows your DirectX version and any detected issues.
  • Restart Your PC: Sometimes, a simple reboot resolves temporary glitches affecting DirectX.

Step 1: Update Your Graphics Drivers

Outdated or corrupted graphics drivers are a common cause of DirectX 12 errors. Updating your drivers ensures compatibility with DirectX and improves system stability.

  1. Press Win + X and select Device Manager.
  2. Expand the Display adapters section to see your graphics card.
  3. Right-click your GPU and choose Update driver.
  4. Select Search automatically for updated driver software. Windows will look for the latest driver online.
  5. If no update is found, visit your GPU manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel) to download and install the latest driver manually.

Why this matters: Updated drivers include fixes and enhancements that can resolve compatibility issues with DirectX 12.

Step 2: Install the Latest Windows Updates

Windows updates often include important fixes and improvements for DirectX components. Installing the latest updates can solve many underlying problems.

  1. Open Settings > Windows Update.
  2. Click Check for updates.
  3. Download and install any available updates.
  4. Restart your computer if prompted.

Note: Some updates specifically target DirectX and graphics issues, so keeping Windows current is essential.

Step 3: Run the DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer

This installer updates DirectX components that might be missing or corrupted on your system. It’s a straightforward way to repair DirectX files without reinstalling Windows.

  1. Go to the official Microsoft DirectX download page: DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer.
  2. Download and run the installer.
  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
  4. Restart your PC after installation.

Why this helps: Sometimes DirectX files get damaged or outdated, and this installer ensures all necessary components are present and up to date.

Step 4: Check and Repair System Files

Corrupted system files can cause DirectX 12 errors. Using built-in Windows tools to scan and repair system files can fix these issues.

Using System File Checker (SFC)

  1. Press Win + S, type cmd, right-click Command Prompt, and select Run as administrator.
  2. In the Command Prompt window, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.
  3. Wait for the scan to complete. It will automatically fix corrupted files if found.
  4. Restart your computer.

Using Deployment Image Servicing and Management (DISM)

If SFC does not fix the problem, try DISM to repair the Windows image.

  1. Open Command Prompt as administrator as explained above.
  2. Type the following commands one by one, pressing Enter after each:
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /CheckHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /ScanHealth
DISM /Online /Cleanup-Image /RestoreHealth

After completion, restart your PC.

Why perform these scans? They check your Windows installation for corruption and fix files that might cause DirectX errors.

Step 5: Adjust Graphics Settings to Enable DirectX 12

Some games or apps require DirectX 12 to be explicitly enabled or configured. Checking your graphics settings can help.

  • Open your game or app settings.
  • Look for graphics options and check if DirectX 12 is selected as the rendering API.
  • If not, switch from DirectX 11 or other versions to DirectX 12.
  • Save changes and restart the application.

Additionally, in rare cases, forcing your GPU to use DirectX 12 through manufacturer control panels (NVIDIA Control Panel or AMD Radeon Settings) can help.

Step 6: Disable Conflicting Software

Certain third-party programs, such as screen recorders, overlays, or antivirus software, can interfere with DirectX 12.

  • Temporarily disable any overlays like Discord, GeForce Experience, or MSI Afterburner.
  • Pause or disable antivirus software temporarily to check if it’s causing issues.
  • Restart your PC and test if DirectX 12 errors persist.

If disabling these programs fixes the issue, consider adding exceptions or updating those applications.

FAQs About DirectX 12 Not Working on Windows 11

What is DirectX 12 and why is it important?

DirectX 12 is a collection of APIs that allows games and multimedia applications to communicate with your hardware efficiently, improving graphics and performance.

How do I check if my PC supports DirectX 12?

Run dxdiag from the Run dialog (Win + R). The DirectX version is shown on the first page. Also, your GPU must support DirectX 12, which you can verify on the manufacturer’s website.

Can I downgrade DirectX 12 to an earlier version?

No, DirectX versions are bundled with Windows and cannot be downgraded. However, many games allow selecting different DirectX versions in their settings.

Why do some games say DirectX 12 is not supported?

This usually means your graphics card or drivers do not support DirectX 12. Updating drivers or upgrading hardware may be necessary.

Is reinstalling Windows necessary to fix DirectX 12 errors?

Reinstalling Windows is a last resort. Most DirectX issues can be resolved through driver updates, system scans, or reinstalling DirectX components.

When Nothing Works: Final Steps and Resources

If you have tried all the above methods and still face DirectX 12 errors, here are some final options to consider:

  • Perform a System Restore: Roll back your system to a previous point when DirectX was working correctly. Search for Create a restore point in Windows and follow instructions.
  • Contact Microsoft Support: Use official Microsoft support channels for advanced help: support.microsoft.com.
  • Consider Hardware Issues: If your GPU is old or malfunctioning, it may not properly support DirectX 12. Testing with a different graphics card or contacting hardware support could help.
  • Reinstall Windows: As a last resort, a clean Windows installation can fix deep system issues affecting DirectX.

Conclusion

DirectX 12 errors in Windows 11 can be frustrating but are often fixable with straightforward steps. Start by updating your graphics drivers and Windows system, then repair DirectX components and system files as needed.

Checking graphics settings and disabling conflicting software also helps resolve many issues. If all else fails, system restore or professional support are reliable options.

By carefully following this guide, you can restore DirectX 12 functionality and enjoy smooth gaming and multimedia experiences on your Windows 11 PC.

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