In a significant development for users of Windows 11, a long-standing bug associated with Intel audio drivers has finally been resolved. This issue, which has persisted for nearly a year, specifically impacted PCs equipped with Intel’s 11th-generation processors, preventing them from upgrading to the latest version of the operating system, known as 24H2.
The glitch arose from a compatibility hold imposed by Microsoft due to problems with the Intel Smart Sound Technology (SST) driver, an essential audio controller. As reported by Neowin, the problem primarily affected devices powered by Intel’s Rocket Lake and Tiger Lake chips, leading to frustrating experiences for users who encountered the dreaded Blue Screen of Death, now more commonly referred to as a black screen.
Microsoft’s reliance on Intel to rectify this driver issue delayed the resolution, which was finally marked as complete on September 26, 2025. Users with affected Intel Rocket Lake CPUs are now encouraged to download and install the Intel SST driver version 10.30.00.5714 or later. For those unsure about their specific Windows version, the alternative driver version 10.29.00.5714 may also be applicable. The necessary driver should appear in Windows Update, and once installed, users can check for the long-awaited Windows 11 version 24H2 update.
However, if the driver does not show up even after a reasonable wait, Microsoft advises that it may be due to the absence of compatible drivers for the user’s specific hardware configuration. In such cases, reaching out to the PC manufacturer for further assistance is recommended.
Analysis: Deja-vu with 22H2
This recent bug fix adds to a series of challenges faced by users attempting to upgrade to Windows 11 24H2, with several other glitches having taken a considerable amount of time to resolve. The timing of these fixes, just ahead of the anticipated 25H2 update, raises questions about the overall upgrade experience for users.
While Microsoft deserves some leniency for relying on Intel to address the driver issues, the recurrence of the SST complication is particularly noteworthy. A similar glitch had previously hindered upgrades to Windows 11 22H2 and even the original 21H2 version, leaving many users stranded during their transition from Windows 10.
Estimates suggest that Intel’s Rocket Lake processors power approximately 10% to 15% of Windows PCs currently in use, indicating that a significant number of users have been affected by this persistent issue. As the software landscape evolves, it remains crucial for both Microsoft and hardware manufacturers to ensure smoother transitions for users, minimizing disruptions caused by compatibility issues.
