Common Log (CLFS) Service Defaults in Windows 8

General-purpose logging service.

Default Settings

Startup type: Boot
Display name:Common Log (CLFS)
Service name:CLFS
Service type:kernel
Error control:critical
Group:Filter
Path:%SystemRoot%\System32\drivers\CLFS.sys
Registry key:HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\CLFS

Default Behavior

The Common Log (CLFS) service is a kernel device driver. In Windows 8 it is being loaded by Boot Loader before Kernel initialization. If Common Log (CLFS) fails to load or initialize, the error details should be automatically logged. Then Windows 8 is restarting the PC and attempting to use the Last Known Good configuration. If the Last Known Good configuration isn't working properly, Windows 8 startup ends with a Stop error. If you disable the CLFS service, Windows 8 will fail to start.

Restore Default Startup Configuration of Common Log (CLFS)

1. Run the Command Prompt as an administrator.

2. Copy the commands below, paste them into the command window and press ENTER:

sc config CLFS start= boot
sc start CLFS

3. Close the command window and restart the computer.

The CLFS service is using the CLFS.sys file that is located in the C:\Windows\System32\drivers directory. If the file is removed or corrupted, read this article to restore its original version from Windows 8 installation media.