W10 Activation problem

Since it seems like slmgr /dlv will not run properly on the computer, something appears to be really wrong with the Windows installed on it. The fact that you are only on build 10586.164 also points to that - you should be on build 10586.494 if you don't have the Anniversary update.

You can try running:
slui 4

in a command prompt (admin). That might bring up the phone activation screen and you can try phone activation.

Unfortunately, though, it seems like the reality of the situation is that you really need a clean install to wipe everything out and start fresh. As of yesterday the Anniversary update build of Windows 10 was still activating from manually entered Windows 7 product keys but we're not sure how long that will last. Pretty much forget about the OEM:SLP Windows 7 product key that showkey is showing - that is for use only when restoring the computer from factory provided software. You want to use the product key from the COA sticker.

I really appreciate your help. It does indeed look as if my installation is messed up (I could use stronger language!). The version I should be on is indeed the one now on my desktop!

I think I may cut my losses and roll back to W7 (if this works). I am pretty reluctant to try another upgrade as this is my third attempt with my laptop. I do not understand why the upgrade works well initially and shows activation with digital entitlement which suddenly fails. I am pretty convinced that this is down to the windows update being corrupted as it will not update and the error messages I am getting all refer to update issues. However I am not a computer wizz!

I will try phone activation but am not confident it will work but it is worth a try.

Thanks

John

NavyLCDR. I hope you are pleased when your advice works. As a conclusion to this saga I did start afresh and make a clean install of Windows 10. It went well and I am now activated with the current version and it is singing along. Don't you like a happy ending!!! Thanks.

John