Exit Code 106: A Common Error Message from CrowdStrike

As a security professional or IT administrator, you may have encountered a plethora of error messages and codes while working with security software. One such error code that you may have seen is “Exit Code 106” from CrowdStrike, a leading endpoint security platform. In this article, we will delve into the meaning and possible causes of this error code, as well as provide some troubleshooting steps to help you resolve the issue.

What is Exit Code 106?

Exit Code 106 is a common error message that appears when CrowdStrike encounters an unexpected issue or error while running a scan or performing an operation on the system. This error code is usually accompanied by a descriptive message that provides more information about the cause of the error.

Causes of Exit Code 106

There are several reasons that can trigger the Exit Code 106 error. Some common causes include:

1. Insufficient disk space: If the system’s disk space is running low, CrowdStrike may not be able to complete a scan or operation, resulting in the Exit Code 106 error.
2. Corrupted files or folders: Damaged or corrupted files or folders on the system can cause CrowdStrike to terminate unexpectedly, leading to the Exit Code 106 error.
3. Windows operating system issues: Issues with the Windows operating system, such as conflicts with other software or driver malfunctions, can cause CrowdStrike to fail and result in the Exit Code 106 error.
4. CrowdStrike configuration issues: Misconfigured CrowdStrike settings or invalid configuration files can also trigger the Exit Code 106 error.
5. System malware infections: Malicious software infections on the system can interfere with CrowdStrike’s operation and cause the Exit Code 106 error.

Troubleshooting Steps

To resolve the Exit Code 106 error, follow these troubleshooting steps:

1. Check disk space: Ensure that the system has sufficient disk space available. You can check disk space usage by using the Task Manager or by running the Disk Space tab in the CrowdStrike console.
2. Run a virus scan: Run a full virus scan on the system using a reliable antivirus software to detect and remove any malware infections.
3. Check for corrupted files or folders: Run a disk check using the Check Disk (chkdsk) utility to identify and repair any corrupted files or folders on the system.
4. Update CrowdStrike: Ensure that CrowdStrike is running the latest version. Check for updates in the console or by contacting CrowdStrike support.
5. Reset CrowdStrike configuration: Try resetting the CrowdStrike configuration to its default settings. This may resolve any configuration issues that are causing the error.
6. Contact CrowdStrike support: If none of the above steps resolve the issue, contact CrowdStrike support for further assistance. They can help you troubleshoot the issue and provide guidance on how to resolve it.

Conclusion

The Exit Code 106 error is a common issue that can be caused by a variety of factors. By understanding the causes of this error and following the troubleshooting steps outlined above, you can resolve the issue and ensure that your CrowdStrike deployment is running smoothly and effectively. Remember to always keep your system and CrowdStrike software up to date, and to monitor system logs for any unusual errors or issues that may indicate a larger problem.