Alex Ruben
How To Resolve the Valorant “The Following Components Are Required to Run This Program” DirectX Runtime Error
If you’re running into the “VALORANT DirectX Runtime Error,” yeah, you’re not alone. Happens because of outdated DirectX, corrupted game files, or graphics drivers acting up. Not the end of the world, but it can be pretty annoying. Here’s how to get around it — at least most of the time.
Step 1: Check for Windows Updates
Windows updates often include patches that fix compatibility issues — including DirectX bugs. Keeping the OS fresh is kinda essential. Here’s what usually works:
- Press Windows + S to open the search box.
- Type Check for updates and hit Enter or click on it.
- Click Check for updates.
- If something pops up, let it install. Usually you’ll need to reboot afterward.
This helped on some setups, but not always. Because of course, Windows has to make it harder than necessary.
Step 2: Download and Install the DirectX Runtime Web Installer
Sometimes DirectX files just get borked. Reinstalling can fix that. Head over to the DirectX Runtime Web Installer. It’s pretty straightforward:
- Choose your language, click Download.
- Run the installer once it’s downloaded — typically, in your Downloads folder.
- Allow it to make changes by clicking Yes.
- Agree to the license, then click Next.
- Pick optional components if you really wanna tinker, but just going through the defaults is fine.
- Let it install — pick Finish at the end. Might take a few minutes.
Sometimes I’ve noticed this needs a reboot for changes to fully kick in. Worth trying that if errors persist.
Step 3: Verify and Repair Game Files
Corrupted files are a common culprit. The Riot Client has a built-in verification tool:
- Open the Riot Client, then navigate to the Library.
- Find VALORANT, click on the settings (gear icon).
- Select Verify Integrity of Game Files. Honestly, it’s a bit behind the scenes — just sits there checking for broken bits and fixing them.
- When it’s done, restart VALORANT.
On one setup, this fixed it right away. On another, it took a couple of retries. Weird stuff, but it’s worth a shot.
Step 4: Update Graphics Drivers
If your graphics card drivers are outdated, it’s like running an old car — not gonna run smoothly. To update:
- Press Windows + X and pick Device Manager.
- Expand Display adapters.
- Right-click your GPU (AMD, Nvidia, Intel…) and choose Update driver.
- Click Search automatically for updated driver software.
- Let Windows do its thing. If it finds updates, install them and reboot.
Sometimes a clean install by downloading the latest driver directly from the manufacturer’s site (like NVIDIA or AMD) helps more. Just don’t forget to uninstall the old driver first if switching brands or major updates.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer
Yeah, simple but often effective. After all these steps, a restart ensures all changes stick and lingering issues get pushed out. Did it fix the error? Sometimes yes, sometimes no — but worth trying.
Extra Tips & Common Issues
Some other things that might help:
- Regularly check for Windows updates and driver updates — yeah, boring, but it saves headaches.
- Disable background apps that hog resources or interfere with graphics — stuff like overlays, screen recorders, etc.
- If nothing else works, consider uninstalling and reinstalling VALORANT altogether.
Conclusion
These steps cover most bases and solve the DirectX error in VALORANT. The key is keeping your system, DirectX, and drivers updated, and making sure your game files aren’t corrupted. Usually, that gets the game running again without too much fuss.
Frequently Asked Questions
What really causes the DirectX Runtime Error in VALORANT?
It’s often because DirectX files are missing or broken, or your graphics drivers are outdated or incompatible, especially after Windows updates or driver updates.
Does this work for other games with similar errors?
Most likely. DirectX relies on the same core components, so fixing this can help in other titles that throw runtime errors too.
What if it still doesn’t work after all this?
Sometimes it’s a weird hardware conflict or a Windows quirk. Check forums, try rolling back drivers, or reach out to Riot support. Also, consider doing a clean Windows reinstall if nothing else helps — fun times.
Summary
- Update Windows to the latest version.
- Reinstall DirectX using the official installer.
- Verify and repair VALORANT files via the Riot Client.
- Update graphics drivers directly from manufacturer sites if needed.
- Restart your PC after everything.
Fingers crossed this helps — worked for me on multiple setups, so hopefully it does for you, too.