With Windows 8.1, Microsoft is introducing DirectX 11.2, it requires WDDM 1.3, which the operating system introduces. The Direct3D component of the API didn't bring anything substantial to the scene. DirectX 11.1 was exclusive to Windows 8 and above, as it required WDDM 1.2 (Windows display driver model). DirectX 11.0 had the unique distinction of spanning across Windows Vista and Windows 7. Windows XP capped out at DirectX 9.0c, forcing gamers to upgrade to Windows Vista, to experience cutting-edge games of the time, such as 'Crysis,' with new visual effects that DirectX 10 brought to the scene. Microsoft has often used the tactic of limiting DirectX versions to certain versions of Windows, often citing driver-model changes, to force PC enthusiasts to either upgrade, or lag behind in PC technology, and in the past it worked. With this, Microsoft established that you will need Windows 8.1 or later, to access future versions of DirectX. Microsoft revealed that the latest version of its multimedia API will require Windows 8.1 on the PC, and comes built into its next-generation Xbox One console. You can try Windows 10 and Windows 11 for best gaming experience on PC.Our recent editorial on adoption of Windows 8.1 by PC enthusiasts concluded saying '.and Microsoft isn't stopping with its innovations that will get increasingly out of reach for Windows 7 users.' It looks like the first of such innovations is DirectX 11.2. Info: DirectX 12 is only available for Windows 10 and Windows 11 only, currently. That’s why when you try to install a modern and high definition game on PC, it shows and error and requires to install the latest version of DirectX 11 for Windows 7 64 bit or 32 bit on your Windows PC. Suggestion: If you have DX11 installed then you are recommended to download DirectX 11.2 as a DirectX 11 Technology Update from Microsoft.ĭirectX is an API (Application Program Interface) designed for best quality experience for Windows PC based high definition games and multimedia content. It is a product of Microsoft and comes pre-installed with Windows OS. If you are a game lover you might be well known to DirectX. System Requirements for Microsoft DirectX 11 Offline installer.

Microsoft DirectX Technical and Setup Details.A brief history of DirectX and my experience.

Directx 11 windows 8.1