Questions
- What antivirus software is on my Bowdoin-issued computer?
- What is CrowdStrike Falcon?
- How does CrowdStrike protect my Bowdoin computer?
- Will CrowdStrike slow down my computer?
- Does CrowdStrike collect my personal information?
- How will I know if CrowdStrike finds a threat on my computer?
- Do I need to do anything to keep CrowdStrike running?
- Is CrowdStrike different from Windows Defender?
Environment
This article applies to all Bowdoin faculty and staff using Bowdoin-issued computers managed through Jamf Pro (macOS) or Intune (Windows). CrowdStrike Falcon is installed and managed automatically on all Bowdoin-issued faculty and staff devices. Applies to macOS Sequoia (15.x), macOS Tahoe (26.x), and Windows 11.
For student-owned devices, see Antivirus Software for Student Laptops in the Related Articles section.
Resolution
What is CrowdStrike Falcon?
CrowdStrike Falcon is a cloud-based endpoint security platform that provides advanced antivirus protection, threat detection, and real-time monitoring. It uses a lightweight sensor to analyze activity on your computer and compare it against data from millions of endpoints worldwide, enabling it to detect and stop threats quickly — including malware and behaviors that traditional antivirus products may miss.
How will it benefit me?
CrowdStrike monitors your computer's processes and network traffic continuously, learning what normal activity looks like so it can detect anything unusual. It works silently in the background and reports findings to a central console monitored by Bowdoin IT staff. If a threat is found that requires your attention, IT will reach out to help resolve it.
Will it slow my computer down?
No. CrowdStrike uses a lightweight sensor that runs quietly in the background with minimal impact on your computer's speed or performance.
What information does it collect?
CrowdStrike does not collect personal information. It monitors machine processes and network activity to detect unusual behavior. It does not have access to your files, emails, or personal data.
How will I know if it finds something?
Most detections are handled automatically and reported to Bowdoin IT staff through a central console without any alert appearing on your screen. If a detected threat requires action on your part, IT will contact you directly to help resolve it.
Is CrowdStrike different from Windows Defender?
Yes. CrowdStrike replaces Windows Defender as the primary antivirus on Bowdoin-issued Windows computers. If you see a Windows notification saying Defender has been turned off or is unavailable, this is expected behavior — it means CrowdStrike has taken over as the active protection. See I Receive a Warning That Windows Defender Is Off on Bowdoin Computers in the Related Articles section for more detail.
Do I need to do anything?
No. CrowdStrike is installed, managed, and updated automatically by Bowdoin IT. No user action is required.
Additional Help
If you need further assistance, you have several options:
- Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
- Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
- In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
- Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.