Intel SST (Smart Sound Technology) is an integrated audio DSP (Digital Signal Processor) handled by a dedicated coprocessor. When you wipe ChromeOS and install a traditional operating system like Windows 10 or Windows 11, the OS recognizes the hardware but cannot communicate with it. CoolStar’s SST audio driver acts as a bridge. It enables: Restores crisp, onboard audio playback.
If your Surface will not boot after installing the kernel, you likely have Secure Boot enabled. Either enroll the linux‑surface MOK when the blue screen appears during the first reboot, or disable Secure Boot in your UEFI settings.
For now, if you rely on this driver:
CoolStar maintains a number of open‑source repositories on GitHub that contain the source code for various audio drivers. While these are intended for developers and advanced users who want to compile the drivers themselves, they offer complete transparency and are completely free.
Confirm the installation if Windows displays a security warning. Step 3: Install the Audio Endpoint Drivers
Identify your Chromebook's CPU generation (e.g., Gemini Lake like N4000/N4100, or Comet Lake like i3-10110U).