Just because you are able to download and install the latest DirectX Runtime Environment, does not mean that your GPU will be able to run the latest Direct3D Hardware. Whereas, the Direct3D Hardware Feature Levels is what describes and determines what your GPU can run or is compatible with. Yes, the DirectX Runtime Program determines what DirectX version your operating system can handle, as older operating systems may not be able to run the latest generation of DirectX API.

Wait, There’s a Difference Between DirectX Runtime & Direct3D Hardware? When you get the “DX11 feature level 10.0 is required to run the engine” error, it means that your computer system, specifically your graphics processing unit, does not have the most recent or appropriate Direct3D hardware to run the application you are trying to run. As of 2021, the latest generation is DirectX12. It provides programs with hardware-accelerated support and determines your hardware’s capabilities and adapts it as needed, so you get the best performance possible. Its job is to handle your computer’s hardware that deals with multimedia elements like your graphics card, your sound card, and your operating system. The DX11 is a short form for DirectX11, which is an application programming interface or API that is developed by Microsoft and runs on Windows computers. If you are running an integrated card (one with your central processing unit) or an older dedicated graphics card, you may see the error: “DX11 feature level 10.0 is required to run the engine”. When it comes to running graphic intensive video games like Fortnite, PUBG, Crysis, Witcher 3 or software programs like Fusion360 and SolidWorks, your video hardware needs to be able to handle the latest DirectX APIs.

Dx11 level 10.0 download