attempt to install the 2001 offline installer. Instead, use the DirectX End-User Runtime (June 2010) DirectX End-User Runtime Web Installer - Microsoft
A verified community mirror of the full original 2001 development kit and runtimes. download directx 81 offline installer link
While not labeled "8.1," the is the most comprehensive offline package provided by Microsoft. It is a cumulative installer that includes components from previous versions, including those needed for DirectX 8.1 software. Source: DirectX End-User Runtimes (June 2010) attempt to install the 2001 offline installer
Available for archival purposes at OldVersion.com (24.6 MB). download directx 81 offline installer link