Microsoft has called upon endpoint security firms and government representatives to convene for critical discussions aimed at bolstering security and resilience in the wake of the significant CrowdStrike incident in July 2024. 

This initiative reflects the tech giant’s commitment to bring together cybersecurity firms to discuss the security landscape for its users. And to enhance security and resilience after the CrowdStrike disruption.

The summit will be held behind closed doors. It won't be live-streamed, and members of the press aren't welcome at the high-level meetings.

"This event will not be open to press, and the company has nothing else to share at this time," a Microsoft spokesperson announced.

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Windows Endpoint Security Ecosystem Summit 

On September 10, 2024, Microsoft will host the Windows Endpoint Security Ecosystem Summit at its headquarters in Redmond, Washington. 

This summit will bring together key players in the cybersecurity industry, including CrowdStrike, to develop both short- and long-term strategies to prevent future disruptions and ensure robust protection for users.

“Our objective is to discuss concrete steps we will all take to improve security and resiliency for our joint customers,” stated Aidan Marcuss, Corporate Vice President of Microsoft Windows and Devices, in a blog post.

 Marcuss emphasized the importance of this gathering, noting, “The CrowdStrike outage in July 2024 presents important lessons for us to apply as an ecosystem.

Our discussions will focus on improving security and safe deployment practices, designing systems for resiliency, and working together as a thriving community of partners to best serve customers now, and in the future.”

Kernel Access

The CrowdStrike event occurred when a poorly tested update was rolled out to customers. It had far-reaching consequences causing significant disruptions and financial losses for numerous organizations.

 This event has sparked intense discussions around the risks and benefits of endpoint security products having kernel access.

Kernel access allows security solutions to detect deep-rooted threats such as bootkits and rootkits, while also enhancing performance and tamper resistance. 

However, software malfunctions at the kernel level can lead to severe system impacts. Despite this, a Microsoft executive, who wished to remain anonymous, told CNBC that eliminating kernel access in Windows would address only a small fraction of potential security issues.