Verify DirectX 9 Compatibility of Your Graphics Card

DirectX is a suite of multimedia technologies used by many Windows games. If your PC doesn't have the right version of DirectX installed, your game might not work properly. Here's a comprehensive guide to check and update your DirectX version.

How to Check Your DirectX Version on Windows?​

1. Using the DirectX Diagnostic Tool on Windows 10​

• Open the Start Menu:
  • Click on the Start button located on the Taskbar.
• Search for dxdiag:
  • Type "dxdiag" in the search bar.
  • Press Enter.
• Open DirectX Diagnostic Tool:
  • A new window will open automatically.
• Check DirectX Version:
  • Select the System tab.
  • Look for "DirectX Version" under System Information.
• Verify Digitally Signed Drivers:
  • The first time you use the DirectX Diagnostic Tool, you might be prompted to check if your drivers are digitally signed. Select "Yes" to ensure your drivers are verified for authenticity.

This helps you quickly identify which version of DirectX is installed on your PC. If your game requires a specific version, you can easily check if it's available.

2. Checking DirectX Version on Older Windows Versions​

• Open Run Dialog:
  • Press Windows Key + R to open the Run dialog.
• Type dxdiag and Press OK:
  • Type "dxdiag" in the Run dialog box.
  • Click OK.
• DirectX Diagnostic Tool:
  • The tool will open, displaying the System tab by default.
• Note the DirectX Version:
  • Under the System tab, find "DirectX Version" line.

This is particularly helpful for those using older versions of Windows like Windows 7, Vista, or XP.

3. Checking Graphics Card Compatibility on Windows​

• Open DirectX Diagnostic Tool:
  • Press the Windows Key.
  • Type "dxdiag" and press Enter.
• Navigate to Display Tab:
  • Click on the Display tab or "Display 1" if you have multiple monitors.
• Check Feature Levels:
  • On the right side under Drivers, look at the "Feature Levels".
  • Ensure Feature Levels include "11_0". If not, your system may not be compatible.

This helps you determine if your graphics card supports the required DirectX feature levels.

4. Checking for DirectX 9 on Windows 10​

• Open DirectX Diagnostic Tool:
  • Type "dxdiag" in the search bar and press Enter.
• Check DirectX Version:
  • In the System tab, check the DirectX version.
• Install DirectX 9:
  • If DirectX 9 is required, download it from the Microsoft website.
  • Run the installer.
• Re-check DirectX Version:
  • After installation, run the DirectX Diagnostic Tool again to confirm the update.

This is useful if you are troubleshooting a specific game's requirements for DirectX 9, ensuring you have the correct version installed.

5. Verifying DirectX Version and WDDM Driver Model​

• Open DirectX Diagnostic Tool:
  • Press Windows Key, type "dxdiag", and press Enter.
• Check System Tab:
  • Under the System tab, note the DirectX version.
• Check Display Tab for WDDM Model:
  • Click on the Display tab.
  • Look for "Driver Model" under the Drivers section.

How do I download DirectX 9 on Windows 11?​

1. Visit this official website to download DirectX 9.
2. Click on Download.
3. Extract the contents of the ZIP file and click on the DirectX.sdk file.
4. Click Yes to accept the license terms and agreement.
5. Click on Browse and select the location where you would like to install DirectX 9, and click OK.
6. The installation will begin.
7. Click Finish once the installation is complete, and restart your PC.

This helps verify if your PC meets the minimum hardware requirements for your Windows version, ensuring compatibility with DirectX and WDDM driver models.