DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer adds legacy DirectX components used by some older games and multimedia programs. It installs supporting files such as D3DX, XInput, XAudio and the HLSL Compiler. It does not update Windows' core Direct3D, DirectInput or DirectSound runtime, which is maintained through Windows updates.
| Author: | Microsoft |
| License: | Freeware |
| Price: | FREE |
| Released: | Feb 20, 2021 |
| File size: | 297 kB |
| Downloads: | 1473 |
| Keywords: | games, Software Review, graphics, Microsoft DirectX, directx game dependencies, Web Installer, DirectX, x64 Application, 3D animation, d3dx components, Windows 10 Compatibility, directx runtime installer, directx legacy libraries, directx end user runtime, video, Runtime, rich audio, xinput runtime, End-User Runtime |
| Author URL: | https://www.microsoft.com |
DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer is a Microsoft utility for adding legacy DirectX components that some Windows games and multimedia applications require. It is intended for users who encounter missing-component errors or need older software to find supporting DirectX libraries. DirectX is a collection of Windows technologies used by programs for graphics, video, 3D animation, audio and input; this installer supplements the components already included with Windows rather than replacing the operating system's core DirectX runtime.
The web installer obtains the required files over an internet connection and installs the relevant components on the computer. Its package includes D3DX libraries, the HLSL Compiler, XInput, XAudio and Managed DirectX 1.1. These supporting files can be needed by older games and applications that were built against particular DirectX interfaces. Installing them can resolve dependency issues when a program reports that a DirectX-related file is missing, though it does not guarantee that an incompatible or damaged application will run.
The installer is designed to add components from DirectX 9.0c and earlier releases. It does not install or update the core Direct3D, DirectInput or DirectSound runtime, because those parts are provided as components of Windows. Core DirectX updates come through Windows updates, service packs or a newer Windows release, rather than this web setup. The installer therefore serves a different purpose from updating Windows or upgrading its DirectX platform.
It is most useful when installing older PC games, multimedia tools or other software that depends on legacy DirectX libraries. Since this is a web installer, an internet connection is needed to retrieve the components during setup. Microsoft also provides a separate end-user runtime package containing the same components in one download for installations that need to be performed offline. Users should choose the web installer when online setup is convenient and the complete package when the target computer cannot connect to the internet.
The utility is freeware and was designed for older Windows releases, including Windows XP through Windows 10. Windows already includes its own DirectX runtime, so this package should not be treated as a general graphics driver or as a way to install a newer DirectX generation. On current Windows systems, it is relevant chiefly when legacy software specifically requires its additional libraries; the application's requirements and Windows update status determine whether it is needed.