How to Install or Uninstall Graphics Tools in Windows 10

If you’re building or debugging DirectX apps or games, there’s a good chance you’ll want a few extra tools in your developer toolbox. That’s where Graphics Tools come in. They’re an optional Windows feature packed with GPU-related diagnostics.

In this guide, we’ll show you how to install or uninstall Graphics Tools in Windows 10 or uninstall them if you’re done tinkering. Whether this is your first attempt in trying to install Graphic Tools or you simply want a refresher, you’re bound to find something of value here. Let’s dive in.

Considerations for installing or uninstalling Graphics Tools

Here are some key prerequisites, use cases, and additional tips for managing Graphic Tools.

• You must have admin access. Only admins can add or remove optional features.
• There are no GUI shortcuts. Tools like dxcap and dxdiag don’t automatically create or prompt to create a shortcut.
• Graphics Tools are generally not required for gaming and multimedia use.
• DirectX Graphics Debugger (dxdiag, dxcap), GPU performance counters, and WARP adapter emulation are some of the common utilities included in Graphics Tools.
• Graphics Tools may be used for DirectX development, debugging, and benchmarking.

Most of these applications come with advanced users in mind. As a result, it’s uncommon for managed environments to install Graphics Tools into endpoint devices.

How to install Graphics Tools

There are two quick ways to install Graphics Tools. But first, ensure you’re logged into an account with administrative privileges and have Windows 10 version 1511 or later running on your device.

If all prerequisites are set, you can use these methods to install Graphics Tools:

✔️ Settings

✔️ DISM (Deployment Image Servicing and Management)

Windows Settings is the most straightforward option for personal devices and small tech stacks. On the other hand, DISM is the way to go for automation or script deployment. We also have a guide on software deployment strategies if you’re interested to learn more.

Method 1: Install Graphic Tools using Settings

1. Open Settings → Apps (or Apps & features) → Optional Features.
2. If Graphics Tools is not listed, click Add a feature to select it and install.

You may be prompted to restart the device for changes to take effect.

Method 2: Install Graphic Tools using DISM

For DISM, you’ll need administrative privileges to run the command. If you do have admin access, follow these instructions:

1. Open an elevated Command Prompt or PowerShell.
2. Run the following command:
   • DISM /Online /Add-Capability /CapabilityName:Tools.Graphics.DirectX~~~~0.0.1.0
3. Close the console.

If you want to check if Graphic Tools is already active, you can run dism /online /Get-Capabilities, which will display a list of optional features and their status.

How to uninstall Graphics Tools

Method 1: Uninstall Graphics Tools using Settings

1. Open Settings → Apps (or Apps & features) → Optional Features.
2. Under Added features, look for Graphics Tools.
3. Tap it, then click Remove or Uninstall.

Method 2: Uninstall Graphics Tools using DISM

1. Open an elevated Command Prompt or PowerShell.
2. Run the following command:
   • DISM /Online /Remove-Capability /CapabilityName:Tools.Graphics.DirectX~~~~0.0.1.0
3. Close the console.

Verify if Graphic Tools have been installed or uninstalled

If you want to check if Graphic Tools has been installed or removed as intended, you can run the dism /online /Get-Capabilities command in PowerShell or CMD to display a list of optional features and their statuses.

Troubleshooting common Graphics Tools issues

Issue 1: DISM fails with error 0x800f0954

This error code is common in DISM activations. In general, this means some files are corrupted, or a Windows Update is needed to repair files or align with the version requirements, if applicable.

You can also run the troubleshooting wizard to diagnose the issue. Just navigate Settings → Update and Security → Troubleshoot → Other troubleshooters and follow the prompts to get started.

Issue 2: Graphics Tools missing from the Optional Features list

Ensure you have at least Windows version 1511 or later iterations. If the issue persists, check if there’s an active group policy that’s restricting this action.

Issue 3: Tools not recognized in terminal

You may need to refresh the system by rebooting the computer or signing off and logging back into your account.

Recap of Graphics Tools installation

Graphics Tools is an essential developer tool for IT personnel or advanced users working on DirectX and GPU development, debugging, or troubleshooting.

In most cases, installation can be quickly completed via Settings. However, for stack-wide deployment and automation, it’s best to use DISM via the Command Prompt or PowerShell.