Enabling DirectStorage in Windows 11 is a game changer for gamers and tech enthusiasts alike. This feature uses your computer’s NVMe SSD to reduce game load times significantly and boost overall performance. To enable it, you only need to ensure your hardware supports DirectStorage, have the latest Windows updates installed, and enable the feature in the settings menu. This process takes just a few minutes and can drastically improve your gaming experience.
DirectStorage is like a turbo booster for your gaming experience, speeding up load times and enhancing performance. Here’s how to supercharge your Windows 11 setup.
Step 1: Check Your Hardware Compatibility
Ensure your computer has an NVMe SSD and a DirectX 12 Ultimate graphics card.
Before you can enable DirectStorage, your hardware must meet the basic requirements. An NVMe SSD and a Compatible GPU are essential. You can check your system specifications by navigating to the System Information tool in Windows 11.
Step 2: Update Windows 11
Ensure that your Windows 11 is up-to-date with the latest patches and updates.
Having the latest updates ensures that all DirectStorage features and improvements are fully supported. Go to Settings, click on Windows Update, and prompt your system to check for updates.
Step 3: Update Your Graphics Card Driver
Download and install the latest driver for your graphics card from the manufacturer’s website.
Updated GPU drivers are crucial for taking full advantage of DirectStorage. Visit your GPU manufacturer’s website—be it NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel—and download the latest driver package.
Step 4: Open Game Bar
Use the Windows key + G to open the Xbox Game Bar.
Opening the Xbox Game Bar is necessary for accessing game settings related to DirectStorage. Once it’s open, you’ll find various widgets that allow you to optimize your experience.
Step 5: Enable DirectStorage
Navigate to the settings in the Xbox Game Bar and toggle on DirectStorage.
Look through the settings menu for the DirectStorage option and switch it on. This final step activates the feature, allowing your system to use the NVMe SSD to improve load times and game performance.
Once you’ve enabled DirectStorage, you should notice smoother load times and enhanced graphics performance in games that support the feature. It’s like giving your games a shot of adrenaline, making them quicker and more responsive.
Tips for Enabling Direct Storage in Windows 11
- Ensure your SSD has enough free space for optimal performance, as DirectStorage works best when there’s spare capacity.
- Regularly check for system and driver updates to maintain compatibility and get the best performance.
- Consider upgrading to a higher capacity NVMe SSD if you frequently run out of space.
- Look for games that specifically support DirectStorage for the best performance boost.
- Monitor your system temperatures to ensure your hardware doesn’t overheat when using demanding features like DirectStorage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is DirectStorage?
DirectStorage is a feature that allows games to load data directly from an NVMe SSD, bypassing the CPU for quicker load times and improved performance.
Do all games support DirectStorage?
Not all games support DirectStorage, but more titles are adopting it. Check game specifications for DirectStorage support.
Can I enable DirectStorage on HDD or SATA SSD?
DirectStorage requires an NVMe SSD to function. HDDs and SATA SSDs do not offer the same speed benefits.
Is DirectStorage automatically enabled in Windows 11?
No, DirectStorage must be enabled manually through the Xbox Game Bar settings.
Does DirectStorage improve non-gaming applications?
While primarily designed for gaming, DirectStorage can theoretically improve data-heavy applications, but it’s mainly optimized for gaming use.
Summary
- Check hardware compatibility.
- Update Windows 11.
- Update graphics card driver.
- Open Game Bar.
- Enable DirectStorage.
Conclusion
Enabling Direct Storage in Windows 11 is a straightforward yet impactful way to enhance your gaming setup. By leveraging the power of NVMe SSDs, games load faster and run more smoothly, offering an experience that feels like switching from a tricycle to a race car. While the process is simple, the benefits are substantial, making it a must-do for anyone serious about gaming on Windows 11.
Moreover, as more games begin to support DirectStorage, the feature will only become more valuable, akin to a hidden treasure chest of performance gains waiting to be unlocked. If you’re excited about technology and want your system to perform at its peak, enabling DirectStorage is an essential step. Consider it a wise investment in the quality of your virtual adventures. Feel free to explore, test, and share your experiences with this remarkable feature, and happy gaming!
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read over 50 million times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.
Read his full bio here.
In the world of computing, speed is everything. One of the most significant advancements in storage technology has been Microsoft’s DirectStorage. Introduced as part of the Xbox Series X and S, this technology has now made its way to Windows 11, promising to revolutionize the way games are loaded and played on PCs. In this article, we will explore what DirectStorage is, why you should enable it, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to enable it on your Windows 11 machine.
What is DirectStorage?
DirectStorage is a technology developed by Microsoft designed to speed up the process of loading games and accessing game assets. Traditionally, games load data from storage into memory in a sequential manner, which can create bottlenecks, especially with large, intricate environments. DirectStorage changes this by allowing the GPU to access game assets directly from the SSD without needing to go through the CPU first.
Key Features of DirectStorage:
-
Reduced Load Times: With DirectStorage, load times can be dramatically reduced, allowing players to get into games faster than ever before.
-
Streamlined Asset Management: The technology allows assets to be streamed more efficiently. This means textures, models, and other assets can be loaded on-the-fly, leading to smoother gameplay.
-
Better Resource Management: DirectStorage minimizes the impact of storage subsystem performance on overall game performance, allowing for a more stable experience, even as resource demands fluctuate.
-
Optimized for NVMe SSDs: The technology is designed to work best with NVMe SSDs, capitalizing on their speed to provide the best gaming experience.
Why Enable DirectStorage?
While Windows 11 is built with gaming in mind and comes with several features that can enhance your gaming experience, enabling DirectStorage can provide several tangible benefits:
-
Faster Game Load Times: For gamers, the most significant advantage is the dramatic reduction in load times. This means less waiting and more playing.
-
Enhanced User Experience: Games that utilize DirectStorage can deliver richer worlds with minimal lag, seamlessly transitioning between scenes, which provides an immersive experience.
-
Future-Proofing: As game developers continue to experiment with new technologies, enabling DirectStorage ensures that you are ready to take advantage of new developments in game design.
If you’re keen to harness the power of this technology, let’s delve into the steps required to enable DirectStorage on your Windows 11 system.
System Requirements for DirectStorage
Before we proceed to the enabling steps, let’s ensure that your system is compatible with DirectStorage. Here’s what you’ll need:
-
Windows 11: DirectStorage is only available on Windows 11, so ensure that you are running this operating system.
-
NVMe SSD: DirectStorage is primarily optimized for NVMe SSDs. While it may work with SATA SSDs, you will not experience the full benefits. If you’re not sure what type of SSD you have, you can check it through the Task Manager or File Explorer.
-
DirectX 12 GPU: A DirectX 12 compatible graphics card is required. Most modern GPUs from NVIDIA and AMD should meet this criterion.
-
Game Support: Finally, you’ll want to ensure that the game you wish to play supports DirectStorage. As more titles are developed, support will become more widespread.
Step-by-Step Guide to Enable DirectStorage on Windows 11
The process to enable DirectStorage is straightforward, but it helps to understand its functioning. Here’s a step-by-step guide.
Step 1: Checking for Windows Updates
- Open Settings: Click on the Start menu and select the gear-shaped icon to access Settings.
- Navigate to Windows Update: Click on «Windows Update» from the sidebar.
- Check for Updates: Click the «Check for updates» button. Ensure that your system is up to date. Install any available updates.
Step 2: Ensure You Have the Right Hardware
-
Check Your SSD: Press
Win + X
and select «Disk Management». Confirm that your storage drive is an NVMe SSD. -
Check Your GPU: Right-click on the desktop and select «Display settings», then scroll down and click on «Advanced display settings». You will see details regarding your GPU.
Step 3: Enable DirectStorage for Supported Games
-
Install a Game That Supports DirectStorage: At the time of writing, several titles like “Forspoken” and “Final Fantasy VII Remake Intergrade” support DirectStorage. Download one of these games via Steam, Xbox Game Pass, or the Epic Games Store.
-
Check Game Settings: Once installed, launch the game and navigate to its graphics settings. Look for any options related to DirectStorage and ensure it is enabled.
Step 4: Updating and Optimizing Your Storage Settings
-
Open the Properties of Your SSD: Go to «This PC», right-click on your NVMe SSD, and select «Properties».
-
Enable Write Caching: Under the Hardware tab, select your SSD, click on «Properties», and then navigate to the Policies tab. Ensure that «Enable write caching on the device» is checked.
-
Format the SSD (if necessary): If you encounter issues, consider formatting your SSD to ensure it is optimized for performance. Back up your data first, as this will erase all data on the drive!
Step 5: Reboot and Test
-
Restart Your PC: It’s always a good practice to restart your machine after making significant changes to system settings.
-
Launch Your Game: After rebooting, launch the game you installed that supports DirectStorage. Monitor performance and load times compared to previous experiences without DirectStorage enabled.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
While enabling DirectStorage is relatively straightforward, you may encounter some issues. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
Game Not Recognizing DirectStorage
If your game does not recognize DirectStorage:
-
Ensure Your Game is Updated: Sometimes, the latest patches may be required for DirectStorage support.
-
Verify Game Files: If you are using a service like Steam, verify the integrity of your game files to ensure nothing is missing.
Slow Load Times Persist
If you still experience slow load times:
-
Check Your Hardware: Confirm that you are using an NVMe SSD and that it is set to the correct mode in BIOS. Sometimes, SSDs need to be configured in AHCI mode for optimal performance.
-
Disk Health: Use tools like CrystalDiskInfo to check the health status of your SSD. A failing SSD can lead to poor performance.
DirectStorage Not Showing in Game Settings
If you cannot find the option to enable DirectStorage:
-
Game Compatibility: Ensure that the game you are trying to play explicitly supports DirectStorage. Not all newer titles may have this feature integrated right away.
-
Monitor for Updates: Keep an eye out for game updates or patches that might add DirectStorage support in the future.
Conclusion
Enabling DirectStorage on your Windows 11 system is a simple yet powerful way to experience improved load times and enhanced gaming performance. With the right hardware and games that support this technology, you can find yourself playing titles faster and with fewer interruptions.
As more games are developed to take advantage of DirectStorage, you’ll have your system primed and ready for a smoother, more immersive gaming experience. So, make sure to follow the outlined steps, keep your system updated, and enjoy the thrilling new world of gaming that awaits you.
This comprehensive guide has covered everything you need to set yourself up for success. Here’s to countless hours of gaming bliss with DirectStorage enabling you to spend more time playing and less time waiting!
Enabling Direct Storage in Windows 11 is a straightforward process that can significantly boost your gaming and application performance. By following a few simple steps, you’ll harness the power of your NVMe SSD, leading to faster load times and a smoother experience. Let’s dive into how to enable Direct Storage in Windows 11.
Direct Storage is designed to speed up game loading times and enhance your overall system performance by using your NVMe SSD more efficiently. Below, we’ve broken down the steps to enable Direct Storage on Windows 11.
Step 1: Ensure Your System Meets Requirements
First, check if your system meets the minimum requirements for Direct Storage.
Make sure you have Windows 11, a DirectX 12 Ultimate capable GPU, and an NVMe SSD. Without these, Direct Storage won’t be functional.
Step 2: Update Your Graphics Drivers
Install the latest graphics drivers from your GPU manufacturer.
Updated drivers ensure compatibility and the best performance when using Direct Storage.
Step 3: Update Windows 11
Go to Settings > Windows Update, and make sure your system is fully updated.
Having the latest Windows updates ensures all necessary components for Direct Storage are installed.
Step 4: Enable Direct Storage in Windows Settings
Open Settings, navigate to System > Storage, and look for the Direct Storage setting to enable it.
This setting will ensure that Direct Storage is activated and ready to improve your system’s performance.
Step 5: Enable Direct Storage in Your Game
Launch your game and look for the Direct Storage option in the settings menu to enable it.
Not all games support Direct Storage yet, so check if your game has this option available.
After you complete these steps, your system should be set to take full advantage of Direct Storage. You’ll likely notice faster loading times and smoother gameplay as your NVMe SSD efficiently handles data.
Tips for Enabling Direct Storage Windows 11
- Check Compatibility: Before you start, ensure your hardware supports Direct Storage.
- Keep Drivers Updated: Regularly update your GPU drivers for optimum performance.
- Monitor Updates: Keep an eye on Windows updates that may enhance Direct Storage functionalities.
- Check Game Support: Ensure your games are compatible with Direct Storage to utilize its full benefits.
- Use NVMe SSD: The performance boost from Direct Storage is most noticeable with an NVMe SSD.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Direct Storage?
Direct Storage is a technology that allows the GPU to load game assets directly from the storage drive, reducing CPU load and speeding up load times.
Can I use Direct Storage on an HDD?
No, Direct Storage requires an NVMe SSD for the performance benefits it offers.
Do all games support Direct Storage?
Not all games support Direct Storage yet, but more are expected to adopt this technology.
Is Direct Storage automatically enabled in Windows 11?
No, you need to enable it in your system settings and in the game settings if applicable.
Do I need specific hardware to use Direct Storage?
Yes, you need a DirectX 12 Ultimate capable GPU and an NVMe SSD.
Summary
- Ensure your system meets requirements.
- Update your graphics drivers.
- Update Windows 11.
- Enable Direct Storage in Windows Settings.
- Enable Direct Storage in your game.
Conclusion
Enabling Direct Storage in Windows 11 can be a game-changer, literally and figuratively. By following the steps above, you’re setting up your system to take advantage of faster load times and a more efficient gaming experience. This feature leverages your NVMe SSD in a way that traditional storage solutions simply can’t match, making it a critical upgrade for any avid gamer or power user.
Make sure your system meets the requirements, keep your drivers and system updated, and remember to enable Direct Storage in both Windows settings and your games. By doing so, you’ll be ready to enjoy a smoother, faster computing experience.
Explore more about Direct Storage and stay tuned for updates from Microsoft and game developers as this technology continues to evolve. Happy gaming!
Matt Jacobs has been working as an IT consultant for small businesses since receiving his Master’s degree in 2003. While he still does some consulting work, his primary focus now is on creating technology support content for SupportYourTech.com.
His work can be found on many websites and focuses on topics such as Microsoft Office, Apple devices, Android devices, Photoshop, and more.
As the gaming landscape continues to evolve, enhancing performance and user experience is at the forefront of developers’ minds. One of the groundbreaking technologies emerging in this arena is DirectStorage. With Windows 11, Microsoft introduced this feature to leverage the power of NVMe SSDs for faster game load times and overall better performance. In this article, we will explore what DirectStorage is, why it’s important, and how to turn it on in Windows 11, ensuring your gaming experience reaches new heights.
What is DirectStorage?
DirectStorage is a technology designed to dramatically improve the speed and efficiency of data loading in games. It is part of the DirectX family, which has been synonymous with high-performance graphics and gaming on Windows platforms for years.
Traditionally, game assets such as textures, models, and audio files would need to be unpacked from the storage device, processed by the CPU, and then sent to the GPU for rendering. This process often resulted in long loading times, as the data had to pass through several layers, creating bottlenecks.
DirectStorage minimizes these bottlenecks by allowing the GPU to directly access the storage device, specifically NVMe SSDs, reducing the time it takes to load game assets significantly. This means that games can start up faster, load levels with little to no delay, and provide an overall smoother gameplay experience.
Benefits of DirectStorage
-
Reduced Load Times: One of the primary benefits of DirectStorage is its ability to drastically cut down load times. You’ll spend less time waiting for games to start or levels to load, making for a more seamless gaming experience.
-
Improved Streaming: DirectStorage allows games to stream in textures and assets on the fly, rather than pre-loading everything at the start. This is especially beneficial for open-world games that require constant resource loading, as it ensures smoother transitions and better performance.
-
Enhanced Graphics Performance: By freeing up CPU resources, DirectStorage allows for better optimization of graphical processes, resulting in improved visuals and frame rates.
-
Future-Proofing: As game developers increasingly adopt DirectStorage in their titles, having it enabled means you are prepared to take full advantage of new games and optimizations as they are released.
Requirements for DirectStorage
Before you can turn on DirectStorage in Windows 11, it’s essential to ensure your system meets the necessary requirements:
-
Operating System: You must be running Windows 11.
-
Storage Device: DirectStorage requires an NVMe SSD. Traditional SATA SSDs or HDDs will not provide the enhanced performance that DirectStorage offers.
-
DirectX 12 Feature Set 12_2: Ensure your graphics card supports DirectX 12 Ultimate, which includes support for DirectStorage.
-
Game Compatibility: Not all games support DirectStorage at launch. Look for titles that explicitly state they are optimized for DirectStorage.
How to Enable DirectStorage in Windows 11
Now that you understand what DirectStorage is and what you need to take advantage of it, let’s get into the specifics of how to turn it on in Windows 11.
Step 1: Check Windows Version
First, make sure you are running the latest version of Windows 11. Often, newer updates include enhancements and bug fixes that can improve performance and compatibility.
- Go to Settings.
- Click on Windows Update.
- Check for updates and install any that are available.
Step 2: Ensure Your Storage Device is NVMe SSD
DirectStorage requires an NVMe SSD. To check if your storage device meets this requirement:
- Press
Windows + X
and select Disk Management. - In Disk Management, view the listed disks.
- Look for the Type column. If it shows SSD followed by details like «NVMe,» your storage device is suitable.
If you’re unsure, you can also go to Device Manager and check under Disk Drives for information about your SSD.
Step 3: Update Your Graphics Driver
Ensure your graphics drivers are up to date. Manufacturers like NVIDIA, AMD, and Intel regularly release updates that enhance performance and add support for new features like DirectStorage.
- Visit your GPU manufacturer’s website (NVIDIA, AMD, Intel).
- Look for the latest driver for your graphics card.
- Download and install the driver.
- Restart your computer after the installation.
Step 4: Check Game Compatibility
Before diving into the DirectStorage settings, make sure the games you want to play support DirectStorage. Check their product pages or official announcements for details.
Step 5: Enable DirectStorage in Windows 11
Now we will enable DirectStorage in Windows 11. Follow these steps:
-
Open the Game Settings:
- Launch the game that supports DirectStorage.
- Go to the Settings or Options menu.
-
Locate DirectStorage Settings:
- Depending on the game, you may find settings for DirectStorage under Graphics Settings, Performance, or Storage.
-
Toggle DirectStorage:
- Enable the DirectStorage option, if available. This will allow the game to utilize the technology.
-
Save Changes and Restart the Game:
- After enabling it, make sure to save your changes and restart the game for the settings to take effect.
Step 6: Monitor Performance
Once you’ve enabled DirectStorage, it’s a good idea to monitor your game’s performance. Take note of loading times, frame rates, and overall responsiveness. Compare these against your previous experiences without DirectStorage.
Troubleshooting DirectStorage Issues
While enabling DirectStorage is mostly a straightforward process, you may encounter issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot:
Verify Game and System Requirements
Make sure you are running a compatible game and that your system meets all the criteria for DirectStorage.
Update Windows and Your Drivers
If you experience performance issues, check for updates to Windows 11 and your graphics drivers. Compatibility issues can often be resolved with the latest patches.
Disable Other Storage Features
In some cases, other storage optimization features may conflict with DirectStorage. Consider disabling features like Storage Spaces or certain disk management tools temporarily to see if performance improves.
Monitor Resource Usage
Use the Task Manager to monitor resource usage while playing games. High CPU or RAM usage may result in performance lags. Close any unnecessary applications running in the background that could consume resources.
Consult Official Support
If problems persist, reach out to the game’s technical support team or check community forums for troubleshooting steps specific to that title.
Conclusion
DirectStorage is a transformative feature for gaming on Windows 11, promising faster load times, enhanced performance, and a more immersive experience. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that you’re making the most of this innovative technology. Whether you’re diving into expansive RPGs, fast-paced shooters, or visually stunning adventures, enabling DirectStorage can significantly enhance your gameplay.
As developers continue to integrate DirectStorage in their titles, staying informed and regularly updating your system will enable you to experience the future of gaming as it unfolds. Build your gaming rig, tune it to perfection, and prepare yourself for an unparalleled gaming experience, all thanks to DirectStorage in Windows 11. Happy gaming!
How to Enable Direct Storage in Windows 11
Enable Direct Storage windows 11 is a new gaming feature that allows games to load in milliseconds. It is based on the Xbox Series X/S storage technology. It is built into Windows 11 and compatible with DirectX 12.
The feature will only work if the game supports it and the PC meets its requirements. The PC must have an NVMe SSD and support DirectX 12 Ultimate.
Direct Storage is a new storage technology introduced in Windows 11 that aims to bypass the traditional storage stack and directly communicate between the NVMe storage device and the GPU, potentially offering significant performance improvements in specific workloads like high-end gaming. However, enabling Direct Storage currently requires specific hardware and software configurations, and it’s not readily available for all users.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to enable Direct Storage in Windows 11, covering the prerequisites, steps involved, and potential limitations:
Prerequisites:
-
Hardware:
- Supported NVMe SSD: Your system must have a high-performance NVMe solid-state drive (SSD) that supports the NVMe for Storage protocol (NVMe-がついています). Check your SSD’s specifications or manufacturer’s website for confirmation.
- DirectX 12 Ultimate graphics card: You’ll need a graphics card that supports DirectX 12 Ultimate features, specifically Shader Model 6.6. This includes high-end NVIDIA RTX 30 series and AMD Radeon RX 6000 series cards or later.
- Windows 11 with latest updates: Ensure you have the latest Windows 11 updates installed, as Direct Storage functionality may be rolled out through updates.
-
Software:
- Game or application support: Direct Storage is currently only supported by specific games and applications that have been explicitly designed to leverage this technology. Check the game’s or application’s documentation or official website for confirmation.
Enabling Direct Storage:
Important Note: As of February 20, 2024, enabling Direct Storage through manual configuration is not officially supported by Microsoft. The feature is currently in development and may be rolled out through future updates or game-specific settings. The following information is based on available developer documentation and may change in the future.
-
Open the Windows Registry Editor:
- Press Win + R to open the Run dialog box.
- Type regedit and press Enter.
- Caution: Modifying the registry can have unintended consequences. Proceed with caution and create a backup of your registry before making any changes.
-
Navigate to the following key:
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Control\Storage\NVMe
-
Create a new DWORD (32-bit) value:
- Right-click on the NVMe key and select New > DWORD (32-bit) Value.
- Name the new value EnableDirectStorage.
-
Set the value data:
- Right-click on the EnableDirectStorage value and select Modify.
- In the Value data field, enter 1 and click OK.
-
Restart your computer:
- The changes will take effect after a system reboot.
Limitations:
- Early stage: Direct Storage is still under development, and its availability and functionality may vary depending on your hardware, software, and specific game or application.
- Limited game support: Currently, only a handful of games explicitly support Direct Storage. This list is expected to grow in the future.
- Performance gains: While Direct Storage promises performance improvements, the actual benefits may vary depending on your specific hardware configuration, game/application, and workload.
Alternatives:
If you don’t meet the requirements for Direct Storage or your desired game/application doesn’t support it yet, consider these alternatives:
- Update your hardware: Ensure you have the latest NVMe SSD and graphics card drivers installed for optimal performance.
- Optimize your storage settings: Enable features like AHCI mode and optimize storage performance through Windows settings.
- Consider alternative solutions: Depending on your needs, explore other storage optimization tools or techniques like game-specific settings or RAMDisk configurations.
What is DirectStorage?
DirectStorage is a new feature that promises to dramatically improve loading times for games. This Xbox-based storage improvement API uses the GPU to decompress game models and textures, which frees up CPU resources.
Direct Storage is built into Windows 11 and can be enabled by simply running a compatible game. To check if your PC meets the requirements for DirectStorage, you can press Win+G and look at the gaming features section. You should see the message “Your system is DirectX 12 Ultimate ready and your GPU supports DirectStorage” if you have the required hardware.
You do not need to enable DirectStorage, as it is a built-in feature in Windows 11. However, you will need third-party developers to implement this API in their games. Once they do, the feature will automatically take care of everything else.
Requirements
Direct Storage is a new feature in Windows 11 that can improve performance for applications and games by allowing them to access data directly from the storage device, rather than relying on the system memory. This can reduce loading times and free up CPU resources.
In order to use DirectStorage, your PC must meet certain requirements. These include an NVMe SSD and a graphics card that supports DirectX 12 Ultimate. You should also have a fast processor in order to get the most out of this feature.
DirectStorage allows games to transfer graphics data at a much faster rate between the SSD and the GPU. This can significantly reduce load times and provide a better gaming experience. Additionally, it can help eliminate lag by offloading work from the CPU.
Benefits
Direct Storage is a new API that allows for quicker data access. It can improve performance by removing the need to retrieve data from the operating system. This can lead to faster loading times and higher graphics quality.
It can also reduce processing overhead by allowing games to decompress data in hardware. This can free up CPU resources and allow for more complex graphics. The API is available for PCs running Windows 11 and with compatible hardware.
To use the feature, you’ll need a NVMe SSD and a GPU that supports it. Then, you’ll need a game that supports the DirectStorage API. You can check if your PC meets the requirements by opening the Xbox Game Bar and clicking on Gaming features in the left panel.
Disadvantages
DirectStorage is a powerful storage technology that reduces latency and improves data access. It works by letting the hardware handle read requests asynchronously, which allows for higher bandwidth and lower CPU usage.
To take advantage of the benefits of DirectStorage, your PC needs to meet certain requirements. It must have an NVMe SSD and a graphics card that supports DirectX 12. In addition, your processor must be fast enough to handle the workload.
DirectStorage is a great way to speed up game loading times and improve performance. However, it’s not a complete solution for PC gaming, as there are still many factors that can affect gaming performance. The best way to ensure a smooth experience is to keep your GPU and processor up-to-date and use the latest version of Windows.
Conclusions
DirectStorage is a new gaming feature that reduces game loading times and graphics performance by moving the job of decompressing game assets to the GPU. It works by taking advantage of massive parallel engines that are available in modern GPUs, thereby freeing up CPU resources. It is also much faster than older gaming APIs, which are typically limited to MB/s performance.
To get the most out of DirectStorage, install games on an NVMe SSD to maximize IO performance. You can find more details about the DirectStorage API on Microsoft’s Developer Blog.
In summary, the new DirectStorage technology is now available for Windows 11 PC gamers. To make the most of it, you should upgrade to an NVMe SSD and a graphics card that supports DirectX 12. Once both are done, you can enjoy the improved gaming experience that comes with DirectStorage.
Conclusion:
Direct Storage has the potential to revolutionize storage performance for specific workloads in Windows 11. However, it’s currently in its early stages and requires specific hardware and software configurations. While enabling it through manual registry editing might be possible in the future, it’s not officially supported by Microsoft yet. Keep an eye out for future updates and game/application support as Direct Storage continues to evolve.