How to Deal with DirectX Problems

Although DirectX has been around for some time, there are still quite often problems with DirectX that are related to versions and DirectX files. Microsoft has actually updated some of the files of the latest DirectX version for Windows XP, which is DirectX 9.0c. As a result you can not always be sure that the correct DirectX version will ensure that you do not have problems. Typically a lot of PC games make use of DirectX, so they are the applications showing DirectX errors.

Runtime errors often relate to DirectX DLL files, like the d3dx9_25.dll, d3dx9_26.dll, or d3dx9_27.dll, while DirectX update problems often cause “internal system errors” or “missing file” errors.

Here are a few tips on how to deal with DirectX errors and problems:

1. Update your hardware device drivers first to ensure compatibility with the latest DirectX version. Be aware that if you install unsigned (not verified by Microsoft) drivers, you can still experience runtime problems when running the application.

2. Scan your PC for viruses, they can cause internal system errors when updating DirectX.

3. Clean & fix the Windows registry, sometimes registry problems cause “file not found” problems in the dxupdate module.

4. DirectX has no uninstall otion, so use Windows XP system restore function to rollback the failed update before trying again. If you have System Restore disabled, turn it on before starting any update.

5. Use dxdiag to diagnose DirectX problems and check the DirectX version. Simply type “dxdiag.exe” in the Run box at the Start menu.

dxdiag 300x218 How to Deal with DirectX Problems

6. Check if the software that gives you problems includes a DirectX installer on the CD/DVD. Many games include a DirectX redistributable version that is installed automatically when the game is installed. There are cases where that version is required and there are cases where that DirectX version is actually causing the problems. So try the DirectX version that came with the application as well as the latest DirectX version from the Microsoft download.

Using these tips you can fix many DirectX errors and DirectX update problems. Worst case scenario you need to reinstall Windows XP, but that should really be a last resort.

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