Intel Broadwell and Haswell users report reboots after security update

Intel says it has received reports from users of systems with Broadwell and Haswell processors about unexpected reboots after implementing security updates against the Specter and Meltdown exploits.

The issues with unexpected reboots affect both client systems and systems in data centers, according to Intel. The company nevertheless advises users to implement the updates “recommended by system and OS providers.” However, according to The Wall Street Journal, the company advises some customers to wait before patching. That article can be read in its entirety on an archive site.

Intel says it is working with customers to investigate the issues. “If a modified firmware update is required, we will provide it through the normal channels,” the company said. It’s not the first problems the security updates for Specter and Meltdown cause. Users of Windows systems with mostly older AMD processors complained that their PCs no longer boot. The Ubuntu update also caused boot issues.

AMD reports that Microsoft will release new updates next week that should solve the problems with Opteron, Athlon and Turion X2 chips. Also providers of Linux distros release patches for AMD systems, according to AMD. Processors’ Specter and Meltdown exploits were revealed in early 2018. Since then, the IT industry has been rushing to plug the vulnerabilities through firmware, OS and other updates.