DirectX · medium

How to fixD3D11-FEATURE-LEVEL-NOT-SUPPORTED

Direct3D 11 feature level not supported

What this error means

This medium-severity issue affects the graphics API (DirectX). The application requires a Direct3D 11 feature level (e.g., D3D_FEATURE_LEVEL_11_0) that the installed GPU does not support. Modern games often require at minimum D3D Feature Level 11_0, while some newer titles require 11_1 or 12_0. This affects very old GPUs (pre-2008) or virtual machines without proper GPU passthrough. It sometimes comes down to directX installation corrupted. See the troubleshooting steps below for the fix.

Before you begin

Save open work and back up important files. Use instructions for your exact device and software version. If Windows cannot start, see the startup guide.

Work through these checks

0 of 3 complete
01Check GPU's maximum supported feature level via dxdiag
  1. Check GPU's maximum supported feature level via dxdiag
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

Browse related errors
02Update GPU drivers to enable maximum supported feature level
  1. Update GPU drivers to enable maximum supported feature level
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

Browse related errors
03Upgrade GPU if hardware limitation
  1. Upgrade GPU if hardware limitation
What to expect

Check whether the original symptom still occurs.

If it does not help

Continue only if this check applies to your device. Consult its manufacturer if you are unsure.

Browse related errors

Possible causes

  • GPU too old to support required DirectX feature level
  • Virtual machine without GPU acceleration
  • DirectX installation corrupted

Useful Windows tools

These commands open Windows tools. Review changes before applying them.

dxdiag