What Caused the Largest IT Outage Ever?
Waveform: The MKBHD Podcast
Innovative Updates and Certification in Software Systems
The software update by CrowdStrike did not directly modify the kernel-level code on Windows systems but updated an instruction set for Falcon sensor software, operating at the kernel level, enabling quick deployment without Microsoft's certification. This led to a significant issue affecting 8.5 million computers worldwide, requiring manual intervention through safe mode reboots for resolution. The incident raised questions about the necessity and implications of allowing such updates without formal approval, with CrowdStrike compensating users with $10 Uber Eats gift cards. The reliance on Microsoft systems globally made the issue particularly widespread and challenging to address, showcasing the crucial role of IT engineers in resolving large-scale software disruptions.
