Automated Solutions for Fixing Windows 10 CrowdStrike BSOD and Recovery Boot Loop Issues

2024/07/19

Key Notes

You must have Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit (ADK) installed.
A modified WinPE image is essential for fixing the reboot loop.
Ensure connectivity options like PXE Boot for easier device patching.

Resolving the CrowdStrike BSOD Reboot Cycle: An Expert’s Guide

As numerous organizations grapple with crashing Windows PCs due to the Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) linked to a faulty CrowdStrike patch, it’s crucial to understand how to navigate these obstacles effectively. This guide provides a systematic approach to rectify this issue using a modified WinPE image with automated processes.

How to Automatically Fix CrowdStrike BSOD Reboot Loop on Windows 10

Step 1: Install Windows ADK

Begin by downloading and installing the Windows Assessment and Deployment Kit (ADK) tailored for your environment directly from Microsoft.

Step 2: Mount the WinPE Image

Use Wimlib or Microsoft’s tools to mount your WinPE image. If you are familiar with DISM, you can execute the following command:

dism /Mount-Wim /WimFile:"C:\Path\To\WinPE.wim" /index:1 /MountDir:"C:\Path\To\MountDir"

Pro Tip: Replace the paths with those that correspond to your actual WinPE image and desired mount directory.

Step 3: Edit the startnet.cmd File

Navigate to the directory of the mounted image by running:

cd "C:\Path\To\MountDir\Windows\System32"

Edit startnet.cmd using a text editor and include the following lines:

del C:\Windows\System32\drivers\CrowdStrike\C-00000291*.sys exit

Pro Tip: Be careful while editing the script to ensure syntax correctness.

Step 4: Unmount the WinPE Image

After saving your changes to the startnet.cmd file, unmount the WinPE image by executing the following DISM command:

dism /Unmount-Wim /MountDir:"C:\Path\To\MountDir" /Commit

This step ensures that the modifications are saved to the WinPE image.

Step 5: Create a Bootable WinPE Media

To deploy the modified WinPE image on affected systems, follow these steps:

Use Rufus to copy the modified WinPE image to a USB drive, ensuring it becomes bootable.
In Rufus, select your USB drive and designate the modified WinPE image file.
Click Start to generate the bootable USB drive.
Power on your impacted system, insert the USB drive, and boot from it by selecting it in the BIOS/UEFI menu.

Pro Tip: Ensure that Secure Boot is disabled to allow for the booting of your WinPE media.

Once executed, the system will boot into WinPE and automatically trigger the commands embedded in startnet.cmd, effectively removing the problematic C-00000291*.sys file.

For organizations looking to patch multiple devices, consider setting up a PXE Boot server, allowing PCs to boot from the network and streamlining the patching process.

Additional Tips

Ensure your backups are verified before performing these actions.
Consider utilizing network monitoring tools to assess patch deployment effectiveness.
Document the changes and maintain a checklist for future reference.

Summary

This guide offers a detailed approach to resolving the CrowdStrike BSOD reboot loop utilizing a modified WinPE image. By following the structured steps outlined, IT professionals can facilitate a swift and efficient recovery process for affected systems.

Conclusion

In navigating the challenges posed by CrowdStrike-related BSOD issues, a proactive approach through automated patching procedures can save significant time and minimize disruption. Leverage these techniques to ensure your systems remain operational and avoid the pitfalls of this IT crisis.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What is CrowdStrike and why is it causing BSOD?

CrowdStrike is a cybersecurity platform that may, in some cases, deploy faulty patches leading to system instability and the Blue Screen of Death on Windows systems.

Can I perform these steps on encrypted devices?

The automated patch process may not work with encrypted devices, so it’s advisable to decrypt them first if possible.