if you have slic 2.1 just use windows loader 2.2.2 - it will install cert and oem key properly without crack.
Did you try DAZ' Windows Loader? On systems with a valid slic for 7 it only installs the certificate + key.
I will try these suggestions on Sunday and report back with [answered] or more questions (hopefully not). Thank you very much! It seems like an easy fix.
@Nox Covenant Can you please post screenshots of SLIC Toolkit Basic & Advanced tab, RW report & possibly the OEM cert? @abbodi1406 AFAIK, the step isn't needed for OEM:SLP activation.
Eagle eye observation! I opened up my unit and it turns out this unit underwent a previous repair before I purchased it as an open-box. The motherboard is an Asrock B250 instead of the Asrock B150 (which was the original board). I imagine some technician just took a motherboard from the retail floor without the proper BIOS. I'll be returning to this microcenter later today. Thanks. I would have never guessed because the certificate and product key injection were reporting as successful.