Yes but by going to wupdmgr.exe, you are forcing MS to confirm activation
I wanted to know if you were able to get past the confirmation of activation, basically WGA, that is automatically installed on running Windows Update
Also yes I know some registry hacks for removing this activation message.
But it may stop your computer from logging in again !
Therefore, I believe the backup, and Clean Install of Windows is wisest.
I tell you what, after backing up fully, go to Safe mode and try this legitamit command in the run field:
rundll32.exe syssetup,SetupOobeBnk (and click OK)
(note: one space, after "rundll32.exe " also the Oo are two letter o's in "oobe"; capitals and comma are important)
Warning: Do not attempt this command on a Normal working, activated version of Windows, as it may stop you from logging into Normal mode again.
But, this will try to reset the activation for you, be prepared to install Windows again if un-successfull