DxDiag is Windows‘ built-in DirectX Diagnostic Tool. Use it to view system, graphics and audio details and save a text report for support. It does not stress-test every component or automatically repair a failing PC.
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How to open DxDiag in Windows 10 or 11
- Open Start and type
dxdiag. - Select the DirectX Diagnostic Tool result. You can also press Windows + R, enter
dxdiagand press Enter. - If asked whether to check digitally signed drivers, follow the prompt; Microsoft’s guidance recommends the check.
- Allow the tool to finish collecting information before saving a report.
You do not need to download a separate dxdiag.exe from a software website. Microsoft documents the tool in its DirectX version and report guide.
What should you look at?
| Area | Useful information |
|---|---|
| System | Windows version, processor, installed memory and DirectX version. |
| Display or Render | Graphics devices, driver information and supported feature levels. |
| Sound | Audio devices and driver details. |
| Input | Information about input devices reported to the tool. |
Tab names and the number of graphics tabs can vary. A laptop with integrated and dedicated graphics may show more than one device. Do not assume the first device listed is the one a particular game is using.
DirectX version versus graphics feature levels
The DirectX version on the System tab describes the Windows software environment. It is not a promise that the graphics card supports every feature a game asks for. Check the relevant display device’s feature levels and compare them with the game’s own requirements.
Likewise, a report listing a graphics card is not proof that recording, HDR or another feature is enabled. For finding files you have already captured, use our NVIDIA capture-location guide.
How to save and share a DxDiag report
Select Save All Information, choose a folder and save the text file. Open it before sending it: it can contain your computer name, hardware details, drivers and other system information. Send it through the support channel you intended to use and remove details you do not want made public.
Include the actual problem as well: what you were doing, the error message, when it began and whether it affects one app or the whole PC. A hardware list without that context is much less useful.
What DxDiag cannot tell you
- A clean-looking report does not rule out unstable hardware.
- It does not explain every cause of a slow computer.
- It does not replace a memory test or a check of drive health.
- It does not measure your screen’s color accuracy.
For physical-memory use, see how to read RAMMap. If an HP screen has an odd color preset, our HP Display Control guide covers that separate setting problem.