Reports have emerged indicating that Windows 11 is encountering significant issues for users with Nvidia GPUs, as highlighted by Neowin. Those participating in the Windows Insider program, particularly on the Canary channel, have noted difficulties in launching applications. The root of the problem appears to lie in an incompatibility with DirectX 9, leading to crashes associated with D3D9 DLL files. This malfunction affects a wide range of software, including applications, games, PowerPoint presentations, web browsers, and even certain websites.
Microsoft has acknowledged the issue, including it in the list of known problems in the latest announcement for Canary Channel build 27808. Despite this recognition, many users continue to experience disruptions, with some resorting to resetting their builds to restore normal functionality within Windows 11.
What you can do if you’re affected
In light of these challenges, some users have found temporary solutions by replacing the problematic D3D9 DLL files located in the System32 and SysWOW64 folders with versions from previous builds. This workaround necessitates administrative rights and can be executed through PowerShell, although it also requires users to disable their Nvidia GPU via the Device Manager.
It is worth noting that this issue appears to be confined to participants in the Windows Insider program, specifically those utilizing Canary builds. While Microsoft has not explicitly attributed the problem to Nvidia GPUs, the evidence suggests that the incompatibility predominantly affects users with these graphics cards.
Further reading: Nvidia just ended support for these graphics cards
This article originally appeared on our sister publication PC-WELT and was translated and localized from German.
