DirectX Shader Compiler is a compiler that translates High-Level Shader Language programs into DirectX Intermediate Language for DirectX and Standard Portable Intermediate Representation for Vulkan.
The tool solves the problem of compiling shader programs for GPU execution across different graphics APIs. It builds on LLVM and Clang, modified to accept HLSL as input and emit validated shader binaries that GPU drivers can consume. The compiler supports shader model 6.0 and higher, providing both command-line tools and componentized libraries for integration into applications.
Developers building graphics or compute applications with DirectX or Vulkan should consider this tool. It suits projects that need to compile HLSL shaders to multiple target representations. The project provides pre-built binaries through multiple channels including NuGet packages, the Windows SDK, and the Vulkan SDK, reducing setup friction. The compiler offers a command-line driver, a DLL-based compiler interface, validation tools, and C++ headers for library integration. Beyond DirectX support, the tool can target SPIR-V for Vulkan applications, making it suitable for cross-platform shader development.
The project maintains active development across language evolution and hardware capability exposure. Contributions from the broader community are explicitly welcomed, as evidenced by the SPIR-V code generation feature developed through community involvement. The tool is designed with compatibility and supportability as core principles, and the project provides documentation and wiki resources to support both users and contributors.
