Windows 10: Windows deactivated-- activation troubleshooter not working

Hello!
My copy of Windows was deactivated on my computer, and I can't get it to reactivate. I suspect it has something to do with the Software Protection service, which I can't get to run (Error code 5: Access Denied). The product key came with the computer itself, so I don't believe the key is invalid. I've tried:

- taking ownership of the sppvsc file and editing permissions (was able to take ownership, no effect)

- editing permissions of sppvsc (edited to full control, no effect)

- restoring sppvsc to default settings in regedit (no effect)

- scanhealth and restorehealth in DISM with administrator settings (no effect)

- running activation troubleshooter (error code 0xc0020036-- trouble communicating with activation servers)

- re-entering the product key (error code 0xc0020036, which popped up nigh instantaneously)

- refreshing the pc (no effect)

These are the things I can recall off the top of my head, but there may be more I've tried. Does anyone think they have any ideas?

Thanks!

:)

 

Windows 10 infinite restart black screen


The tutorials provided are just a list of troubleshooting steps. Use only the steps which apply to you.

Since none of the troubleshooting steps here worked, I'd suggest you do a Clean install.

John

 

MSFT acknowledges some Win10 Pro licenses being mistakenly deactivated

Source: Microsoft acknowledges some Windows 10 Pro licenses being mistakenly deactivated - Neowin

More:

• Windows 10 Pro goes Home as Microsoft fires up downgrade server - The Register
• Windows suddenly deactivated - Microsoft Community
• Windows 10 activation bug baffles, angers users | ZDNet

UPDATE: You can now run the Windows Activation troubleshooter to activate again.

*Arrow Use Activation Troubleshooter in Windows 10 | Windows 10 Tutorials

 

Windows activation doesn't work

Hi Michael,

This might be caused by Windows Firewall issues. We'd like to know where you bought the activation code. As an initial troubleshooting step, we suggest turning Windows Firewall On. Follow the steps below:

• Go to Control Panel.
• Click System and Security then Windows Firewall.
  
• Then on the left panel, select Turn Windows Firewall on or off.
  
• Select Turn on Windows Firewall, click OK then restart PC.

If the issue persists, check this article for more troubleshooting steps:
Get help with Windows activation errors.


Get back to us with the outcome so we can help you out further.