Fixing the Blue Screen Error During CrowdStrike Outage: A Step-by-Step Guide

Experiencing a blue screen error during the latest CrowdStrike outage can be frustrating. However, an easy fix is available to help get systems back to normal. Follow these detailed steps to resolve the issue:

1. **Recovery Screen Access**:

After several restarts, the recovery screen should appear. Click on "See advanced repair options".

2. **Navigate Through Options**:

- Click "Troubleshoot".

- Select "Advanced options".

- Choose "Startup settings".

- Hit the "Restart" button.

3. **Activate Safe Mode**:

Once the startup settings screen appears, press the number "4" to enable Safe Mode.

4. **File Deletion Process**:

- Log into the computer.

- Open Windows Explorer.

- Navigate to the drive containing the operating system (commonly the C drive).

- Open the "Windows" folder, then the "System32" folder.

- Locate and open the "drivers" folder, followed by the "CrowdStrike" folder.

- Use the search bar to find the file named "c-00000291*.sys".

- Delete the located file.

5. **Final Restart**:

Restart the computer and cross fingers during boot-up. If done correctly, the system should function normally.

User feedback on this fix includes various reactions. Some found the IT office's emails forbidding computer shutdowns amusing. Others looked into automated solutions to delete the problematic file for multiple companies. Users cautioned against blindly following online instructions, especially without understanding the implications. Some IT departments even deputized remote workers as junior sys admins to handle the fix.

One user shared a faster method by deleting all files from a specific date within the folder and replacing CrowdStrike with dummy files to prevent reinstallation. Another user humorously noted the odd sensation of seeing a video tutorial on something they had already done multiple times at work.

For those with full disk encryption via BitLocker, recovery proved more challenging but manageable. Some users suggested renaming the file from .sys to .bak as a safer approach, while others highlighted the necessity of having admin privileges to perform the fix.

The video creator's tips were praised for their helpfulness, prompting viewers to subscribe to his YouTube content for more tech solutions.

In summary, while the blue screen error during CrowdStrike outage can be a hassle, following the outlined steps can lead to a quick resolution. Always ensure to understand the actions being taken or consult IT professionals when in doubt.