Error 0x80070426. Also can't activate Software Protection!

These are the instructions I found googling my problem:

1. Type services.msc, and then press Enter.
2. In the list of services locate Software Licensing
3. Right-click it, select Properties
4. Change “Startup type:” to Automatic, then click OK
5. You may then need to select Software Licensing again then click “Restart the service”
(from Windows Activation Error, Error Code 0x80070426? - Microsoft Community)

My problem is I can't start the Software Protection. A few minutes later, it just turns itself off. So without starting it, I can't even change the Startup type.

Update!

I found a way to change start-up type by editing regedit.

Here's how:
ctrl + r
regedit
enter
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\sppsvc
Double click 'Start' key to change value
Do the same for 'DelayedAutoStart'

Change accordingly:

Now, my problem is that the service turns itself off automatically, after a few minutes. Someone please chip in.

Best best would be to check Event log for anything associated with sppsvc.exe...there may be some pointers as to why it's breaking.