Fix Missing d3dx9_38 DLL on Windows

If you are having trouble running specific programs on your Windows computer, you are likely missing the d3dx9_38.dll file. This file is part of the DirectX library, a set of components necessary for multimedia applications to run correctly.

Fortunately, there are several ways to fix this issue. This guide will provide the necessary steps to repair the missing d3dx9_38.dll file. It will also enable you to rerun your applications quickly.

What is d3dx9_38.dll?

D3dx9_38.dll is a part of the DirectX 9.0c package. It is a library file that contains many functions to help developers create 3D graphics for games and other applications. It helps render 3D objects and textures, handle collisions, and apply special effects.

It may be missing from your computer for any of the following:

• Virus or malware: The DLL file may be missing or corrupted due to a virus or malware infection. When this happens, it affects the functionality of the computer.
• File deleted: When a user mistakenly deletes the DLL file, the error is bound to occur.
• OS update or installation: If the file experiences any form of damage or corruption during a Windows update or installation, then the error may occur.
• System crash or power outage: If the file experiences any damage or corruption during a system crash or power outage, the error may occur.
• Improper installation: The file may be missing from the Windows system directory due to improper software program installation. This may also cause error.
• Faulty hardware: If the file experiences any damage or corruption due to a defective hardware component, the error may occur.

The d3dx9_38.dll is essential to enjoy games like Fallout New Vegas, Far Cry 2 download, or even Snes9x.

Where to install d3dx9_38.dll?

The d3dx9_38.dll file should go into the Windows\System32 folder to ensure the proper functioning of the game or program.

Also, note that if the game or program may require a specific version of the d3dx9_38.dll file, so you may place it in a folder designated for the program. If the program is installed in the Program Files folder, the DLL file should go into the same folder as the program.

Sometimes, the DLL file must go into the Windows\SysWOW64 folder to work correctly. The SysWOW64 folder is a system folder used by 64-bit versions of Windows.

How do I fix a missing d3dx9_38.dll?

1. Check your Recycle Bin

1. Open the Recycle Bin by clicking on the icon on your desktop.
   
2. Secondly, enter d3dx9_38.dll in the Recycle Bin’s search box.
   
3. If you find a match for your search, right-click on the file and select the Undo Delete option.
   

2. Scan for Malware

1. Firstly, press the Windows and S buttons on your keyboard, search for cmd, and choose Run as administrator.
   
2. In the next window, enter the following code and press Enter:
   sfc /scannow
   
3. Restart PC as soon as the process is complete.

3. Check for hardware error

1. Firstly, press the Windows and S buttons on your keyboard, search for cmd, and choose Run as administrator.
   
2. Enter the following command in the Command Prompt window and press the Enter key:
   chkdsk /f /r
   
3. Finally, enter Y, restart your PC so the utility can check for file system errors, and search and shield bad sectors.
   

4. Update the OS

1. Firstly, press the Windows + I keys together to open Settings or open by clicking the Windows icon on the Taskbar.
   
2. Then click the Windows Update option and the Check for updates button to find new updates.
   
3. If Windows has a latest update, it will automatically detect it. Follow the instructions to update Windows.
4. Finally, restart your computer.

5. Update drivers

1. Hold the Windows + I keys down simultaneously to open the Settings window.
   
2. Click and open Windows Update option on the left pane.
   
3. Under the Windows Update option, click on Advanced Options. 
   
4. Then, click on the Optional updates option to access it.
   
5. Finally, choose the Driver Updates section and click Download and Install to install all the available updates.
   
6. Restart your PC.

We have a detailed article on updating drivers on Windows 11; you may read it for other update options.

In conclusion, fixing a missing d3dx9_38 DLL on Windows is pretty straightforward. All you need to do is be committed to using it. With the DLL in place, you should be able to launch the game or program with the issue.

Also, it is important always to download DLLs from a trusted source, as some malicious files may be disguised as DLLs. If you follow the steps outlined in this guide, you should be able to fix any missing DLL issues on your Windows system.