This version is not installed standalone by an end user. Instead, it is bundled with:
During driver or game setup, the Vulkan runtime is placed in the system Program Files (x86) folder and registered via an MSI installer.
Important: If you uninstall 1.0.39.1 and a program requires it, that program will either (a) prompt you to reinstall, (b) crash, or (c) fall back to a different renderer (e.g., OpenGL or DirectX). Uninstalling is generally safe but not recommended for gamers.
The Vulkan Run Time Libraries provide the necessary runtime components for applications and games to utilize the Vulkan graphics API – a low-overhead, cross-platform 3D graphics and compute API. Version 1.0.39.1 is an early maintenance release of the Vulkan 1.0 specification.
Key functions:
Think of Vulkan Run Time Libraries 1.0.39.1 as a digital fossil. It was a workhorse in 2017, helping launch the Vulkan revolution against DirectX 11. But today, it has no practical use.
Uninstall it, update your drivers, and enjoy the modern Vulkan 1.3 era.
Have you found an even older runtime on your system, like version 1.0.3.x? Let me know in the comments—bonus points if it’s from the original LunarG SDK!
The "Vulkan Run Time Libraries 1.0.39.1" is 3D graphics API component installed automatically by your graphics card drivers
(NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel). It is not a virus or malware, but an essential feature for modern gaming and high-performance graphics rendering. The Khronos Group Key Features & Details
: It acts as a bridge between your computer's hardware (GPU) and software (games/apps), allowing for better efficiency and performance compared to older standards like OpenGL. Automatic Installation
: You likely see it in your "Programs and Features" list because it was bundled with a recent update to your graphics drivers. Cross-Platform Support : Developed by The Khronos Group
, Vulkan is designed to provide high-efficiency access to graphics hardware across various operating systems, including Windows and Linux. MSI Global English Forum Why Is It on Your Computer?
If you have an NVIDIA or AMD graphics card, the driver update process often includes the Vulkan SDK or Runtime
to ensure your system can run the latest games that require Vulkan support. Microsoft Learn Should You Uninstall It? You should leave it installed.
If you remove it, games or applications that rely on the Vulkan API may fail to launch or experience significant performance issues.
It does not take up significant system resources and is safe to keep on your system. Microsoft Learn Are you experiencing a specific performance issue error message that led you to check your installed libraries? New GS63VR Stealth Pro 7th Gen - Trackpad Scrolling Issue
Absolutely not. This is a legitimate, signed system component from The Khronos Group Inc. However, malware sometimes uses similar sounding names to hide. To verify your copy is genuine:
Check Installer Location:
Run a Malware Scan:
Spoiler: For millions of users, this file is 100% safe.
Vulkan Run Time Libraries 1.0.39.1 May 2026
This version is not installed standalone by an end user. Instead, it is bundled with:
During driver or game setup, the Vulkan runtime is placed in the system Program Files (x86) folder and registered via an MSI installer.
Important: If you uninstall 1.0.39.1 and a program requires it, that program will either (a) prompt you to reinstall, (b) crash, or (c) fall back to a different renderer (e.g., OpenGL or DirectX). Uninstalling is generally safe but not recommended for gamers.
The Vulkan Run Time Libraries provide the necessary runtime components for applications and games to utilize the Vulkan graphics API – a low-overhead, cross-platform 3D graphics and compute API. Version 1.0.39.1 is an early maintenance release of the Vulkan 1.0 specification.
Key functions:
Think of Vulkan Run Time Libraries 1.0.39.1 as a digital fossil. It was a workhorse in 2017, helping launch the Vulkan revolution against DirectX 11. But today, it has no practical use. vulkan run time libraries 1.0.39.1
Uninstall it, update your drivers, and enjoy the modern Vulkan 1.3 era.
Have you found an even older runtime on your system, like version 1.0.3.x? Let me know in the comments—bonus points if it’s from the original LunarG SDK!
The "Vulkan Run Time Libraries 1.0.39.1" is 3D graphics API component installed automatically by your graphics card drivers
(NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel). It is not a virus or malware, but an essential feature for modern gaming and high-performance graphics rendering. The Khronos Group Key Features & Details
: It acts as a bridge between your computer's hardware (GPU) and software (games/apps), allowing for better efficiency and performance compared to older standards like OpenGL. Automatic Installation This version is not installed standalone by an end user
: You likely see it in your "Programs and Features" list because it was bundled with a recent update to your graphics drivers. Cross-Platform Support : Developed by The Khronos Group
, Vulkan is designed to provide high-efficiency access to graphics hardware across various operating systems, including Windows and Linux. MSI Global English Forum Why Is It on Your Computer?
If you have an NVIDIA or AMD graphics card, the driver update process often includes the Vulkan SDK or Runtime
to ensure your system can run the latest games that require Vulkan support. Microsoft Learn Should You Uninstall It? You should leave it installed.
If you remove it, games or applications that rely on the Vulkan API may fail to launch or experience significant performance issues. During driver or game setup, the Vulkan runtime
It does not take up significant system resources and is safe to keep on your system. Microsoft Learn Are you experiencing a specific performance issue error message that led you to check your installed libraries? New GS63VR Stealth Pro 7th Gen - Trackpad Scrolling Issue
Absolutely not. This is a legitimate, signed system component from The Khronos Group Inc. However, malware sometimes uses similar sounding names to hide. To verify your copy is genuine:
Check Installer Location:
Run a Malware Scan:
Spoiler: For millions of users, this file is 100% safe.