How to install the latest version of DirectX - Microsoft Support
: This is the official offline redistributable from Microsoft. While named "June 2010," it includes all legacy side-by-side components (D3DX, XInput, etc.) required by games built for DirectX 8.1 and 9.0c. System Compatibility
: A complete, original archive of the 8.1 SDK, ideal for those needing the full development and runtime environment.
Download DirectX End-User Runtimes (June 2010) from Official Microsoft Download Center. DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer - Microsoft
: DirectX 8.1 is already built into Windows XP. If you are running XP, you typically do not need to install it unless a specific game requires a manual re-installation of components.
: Go to "Turn Windows features on or off" in your Control Panel, find "Legacy Components," and check DirectPlay .
