CrowdStrike

Winsage
April 17, 2025
Device management is challenging for system administrators, especially when controls are lacking or software rollouts are misaligned with management tools. Jack Gold, a principal analyst at J. Gold Associates, cites an example of a driver update that was incompatible and did not allow users to revert to a previous version, similar to issues faced by Crowdstrike. He stresses the need for a cautious approach to rolling back updates, particularly with Windows 11, which had problems due to an Intune glitch. Gold recommends testing rollbacks on a limited scale before wider deployment to identify and resolve potential issues.
Winsage
April 2, 2025
Microsoft has introduced Quick Machine Recovery (QMR) as part of its Windows Resiliency Initiative to improve the security and reliability of Windows 11 following a global incident with a faulty update. QMR addresses boot failures by allowing users to access the recovery environment, connect to the internet for automatic troubleshooting, and receive targeted fixes via Windows Update. Currently, it is being tested in the Windows 11 24H2 Insider Preview Build 26120.3653 and will be enabled by default for Home edition users. Users can access QMR by entering the recovery environment, selecting Troubleshoot, and then Advanced options. Additionally, an internet-based recovery option in Windows Settings can repair system components while preserving user data.
Winsage
April 1, 2025
Microsoft is enhancing its recovery tools for Windows 11 with the introduction of Quick Machine Recovery (QMR), currently being tested in the Windows Insider Program’s Beta Channel. QMR allows IT administrators to remotely address boot issues, even if the computer fails to start normally, and utilizes the Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) to connect to the internet and send diagnostic data to Microsoft for targeted updates via Windows Update. Initially aimed at business users, QMR will also be available to private individuals by default, with administrators in managed IT environments retaining control over its availability. Users can access QMR in the Windows recovery menu under “Advanced Options,” and it is designed to enhance system resilience by automatically identifying errors and implementing solutions.
Tech Optimizer
March 31, 2025
By 2025, the global cost of cybercrime is projected to reach .5 trillion annually. Many organizations continue to use outdated Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions, which are increasingly ineffective against sophisticated cyber threats. EDR was introduced in 2013 but has struggled to keep pace with evolving attack techniques. Traditional EDR is reactive, responding to incidents after they occur, and relies on known Indicators of Compromise (IoCs), which limits its effectiveness. Real-world examples of traditional EDR failures include a misconfigured update to CrowdStrike’s Falcon EDR causing an IT outage, the Akira ransomware exploiting an unsecured webcam, the Medibank breach despite multiple alerts from EDR, and the BlackCat ransomware attack on Henry Schein. These incidents highlight the inadequacy of traditional EDR in preventing modern threats. The next phase of endpoint security is Preemptive Endpoint Protection (PEP), which actively prevents attacks rather than just detecting and responding to them. PEP utilizes proactive strategies like Automated Moving Target Defense (AMTD) and Adaptive Exposure Management (AEM), and research indicates that organizations using proactive security save 30% more on breach costs compared to those relying solely on reactive measures.
Winsage
March 31, 2025
Microsoft has launched a quick machine recovery feature in its Windows operating system to help IT administrators remotely execute fixes on machines that cannot boot, particularly during widespread outages. This feature allows devices to automatically enter Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE) and connect with Microsoft’s recovery services for tailored remediations delivered via Windows Update. IT administrators can enable or disable this feature remotely and configure settings such as scanning intervals and restart timeouts. Currently, quick machine recovery is in testing and available to users in the Windows Insider Program, with plans for future accessibility to IT administrators managing Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise devices.
Winsage
March 30, 2025
Microsoft is testing a new tool for Windows 11 called Quick Machine Recovery, which aims to address issues related to buggy drivers and configurations that hinder the operating system's startup. This tool is part of the Windows Resiliency Initiative, designed to enhance system stability and minimize downtime by automating the detection, diagnosis, and rectification of critical failures. Quick Machine Recovery will allow Microsoft to deploy targeted remediations remotely during widespread outages affecting device startup, thus automating fixes without complex manual interventions. The tool will automatically initiate when a new driver or configuration change disrupts startup, establishing an internet connection to transmit crash data to Microsoft for analysis and remote fixes. Microsoft plans to enable this feature by default in Windows 11 Home editions, with customization options for enterprise users. A test remediation package will soon be released for Windows Insider Preview Beta Channel users to experience Quick Machine Recovery.
Winsage
March 30, 2025
Microsoft introduced Quick Machine Recovery at the Ignite conference, a feature within its Windows Resiliency Initiative for Windows 11, aimed at improving user experience during system failures. This tool allows users to recover their systems when boot failures occur by transitioning into recovery mode and connecting to the internet to analyze crash data and retrieve fixes via Windows Update. Quick Machine Recovery is currently being tested in the latest Windows 11 Beta build, with plans for a broader rollout across all Windows 11 editions. IT administrators can enable or disable this feature and customize settings such as network credentials and scanning intervals. The feature is designed to help mitigate the impact of widespread outages and assist users with critical bugs and compatibility issues.
Winsage
March 29, 2025
A new feature has been introduced to enhance system reliability and mitigate the risk of widespread outages, following disruptions caused by a recent Crowdstrike update. This initiative aims to address vulnerabilities in complex software ecosystems, instill user confidence, and ensure operations remain resilient against unexpected challenges. Key benefits include enhanced reliability, proactive risk management, and increased user confidence. The development reflects a trend in the tech sector prioritizing reliability and user experience.
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