What is Crowdstrike Windows Blue Screen? On July 19, 2024, a software update by the cybersecurity firm Crowdstrike caused a widespread blue screen problem around the world, crashing numerous computer systems. This incident is a striking example of how even cybersecurity software can cause unexpected bugs, leading to widespread system outages.

How did it happen?

The problem occurred after a routine update for Crowdstrike’s Falcon sensor. The update led to an incompatibility with system files on some computers, causing a blue screen error and system crashes. The blue screen error left users unable to use their computers and an intensive effort was launched to identify the source of the problem and find a solution.

Which Systems are Affected?

The impact of the problem was widespread across the globe. From PCs to servers and workstations, many systems were affected by the blue screen. Computers using the Microsoft Windows operating system were particularly affected. Among the organizations affected were banks, airports, public institutions and companies from the private sector.

How to crowdstrike update?

Crowdstrike Falcon updates can be done either automatically or manually. Which method you use depends on your installation type and the way you manage it.

Automatic Updates:

• Local Management: Crowdstrike Falcon Agent enables automatic updates by default. This way, updates are automatically downloaded and installed in the background.
• Cloud Management: Crowdstrike Falcon Cloud centrally manages updates. This way, you can be sure that all your agents have the latest version.

Manual Updates:

• Local Management: You can manually download and install updates using the Crowdstrike Falcon console.
• Command Line Tools: You can also install updates using command line tools.

Update Steps:

For Automatic Updates:

1. No action is required. Crowdstrike Falcon Agent downloads and installs updates automatically.

For Manual Updates (Local Administration):

1. Log in to the Crowdstrike Falcon console.
2. Go to the Targets tab.
3. Select the targets you want to update.
4. Select Download and Install Updates from the Actions menu.

For Manual Updates (Command Line Tools):

1. Download and install Crowdstrike Falcon command line tools.
2. Use the command falcon-agent update to download updates.
3. Use the command falcon-agent restart to install updates.

Important Points About Updates:

• Updates are important to close security holes, make performance improvements and add new features.
• We recommend installing updates as soon as possible.
• If you have any problems with updates, you can contact Crowdstrike Falcon documentation or support team.

Cause and Solution

Crowdstrike quickly identified the source of the problem and created a temporary fix by disabling a faulty part of the update. It then released a new update to fix the problem permanently. Users were able to fix the issue by restarting their computers and installing the new update.

Lessons from the Event

This incident provides an important lesson that even cybersecurity software can introduce critical bugs that can lead to widespread system outages. Therefore, cybersecurity software updates should be carefully tested and precautions should be taken against potential bugs. It is also vital for organizations to have backup and recovery plans in place against data loss and system outages.

How to Open Windows 10 Safe Mode?

Starting Windows 10 in safe mode can help you troubleshoot your PC and resolve potential software errors. In safe mode, only the essential drivers and programs necessary for Windows to run are installed. This way, you can identify any third-party software or drivers that are causing problems on your PC.

There are several ways to open safe mode in Windows 10:

Method 1: Using Initial Settings

1. Open the Start menu and go to Settings.

2. Click Update and Security.

3. Go to the Recovery tab.

4. Under Advanced startup, click Restart now.

5. After your computer restarts, the Select an option screen will appear.

6. Troubleshooting > Advanced options > Startup Settings > Click Restart.

7. After your computer restarts, a list of options will appear.

8. Select the option you want to start in safe mode:

   • Safe Mode: Installs only basic drivers and programs.
   • Safe Mode with Networking: Installs basic drivers, programs and network functions.
   • Safe Mode (No Services): Installs only basic drivers and programs, but disables third-party services.
   • Safe Mode (No Services with Networking): Installs basic drivers, programs and network functions, but disables third-party services.

Additional Information:

• Crowdstrike apologized for the issue and stated that they are working quickly to resolve the issue.
• Users who encounter a blue screen error can get help from Crowdstrike’s website or technical support line.
• This incident once again highlighted the importance of cybersecurity and emphasized the need for organizations to proactively take measures against cyber risks.