A recent global computer outage caused a problematic CrowdStrike update to result in millions of Windows computers being hit with Blue Screen of Death (BSoD) errors around the world, affecting airlines, hospitals, banks, and businesses. While thousands of United, Delta, and American Airlines flights to and from the U.S. were canceled due to the outage, Southwest Airlines reportedly continued operations seemingly unaffected.
The problem didn't affect the airline the same way it affected its rivals, not because it was using Linux or employing a robust protection method, but because Southwest was still using Windows 3.1, which obviously never received CrowdStrike's problematic update.
To give you an idea of how outdated this operating system is, Windows 3.1 was originally released in 1992 and Microsoft ended support for it on December 31, 2001, except for the embedded version, which was officially retired in 2008.
Windows 95 was also unaffected
Tom's Hardware Store While other airlines struggled with operational disruptions due to their reliance on more modern computer systems, Southwest's continued use of Windows 3.1 spared it from similar problems. The airline's outdated technology, often the subject of ridicule, ironically served as a buffer against the widespread system failures that plagued other airlines.
Although Southwest's systems are working well, other airports have faced problems that have indirectly affected the airline's operations, although not as much.
Southwest doesn't rely entirely on Windows 3.1 (that would be ridiculous) as the airline also reportedly uses Windows 95 for staff scheduling, another operating system that never received the problematic CrowdStrike update.
Although running outdated software saved the day this time (or at least put the airline in a better position than its contemporaries), Southwest will eventually need to upgrade its operating systems, as newer computers will struggle to run them.
One X user suggested that the company switch to Windows XP because while it no longer receives updates, it is newer (relatively speaking) and can run Windows 3.1 software in compatibility mode.
