July 19 Update: Microsoft Outages
Notification to our clients: A significant outage affecting Windows servers and computers might impact your operations.
Late Thursday, July 18, companies using CrowdStrike to protect their Windows Servers and Desktop operating systems globally experienced widespread service interruptions. CrowdStrike, a global cybersecurity firm that provides Endpoint Security and Cyberattack response services, identified a technical issue within a Falcon Sensor software patch, which has impacted multiple Microsoft server and desktop systems. This resulted from a flawed software update, not a security breach.
CrowdStrike has published information on the issue here with workarounds and additional information: Statement on Falcon Content Update for Windows Hosts - crowdstrike.com
Current Status and Affected Services
On Thursday evening, July 18, CrowdStrike released a Falcon Sensor content update for their Windows Security software. The update causes BSOD (Blue Screens) on Windows servers and computers that have Crowdstrike installed. This issue is causing global outages for organizations who have deployed CrowdStrike, so although your organization may not be directly affected, you may be impacted by other businesses, suppliers, and vendors who are working through resolving related issues.
What This Means For You
We recommend keeping an eye on any critical processes dependent on Windows servers and computers, or suppliers or vendors impacted by the outages, and exploring temporary workarounds where possible. We also suggest preparing for potential disruptions throughout the next several days as organizations continue to address the residual impacts.
We understand the challenges such disruptions can pose and are here to assist you in navigating this situation as smoothly as possible. Please contact your IX Solutions account executive if you need further information or assistance regarding this matter.
Alternatively, you can reach us by email at support@ixsolutions.ca or by phone at 1.888.868.4979.
We will continue to monitor the situation and provide you with updates as more information becomes available.