Windows 8.1 Update Error Code: 0x80240031

I had the same error code when trying to upgrade from 8 to 8.1 on my Lenovo ThinkPad Tablet 2. It's a tablet so no LAN port, that "quick fix" isn't an option.

After trying step one of this post (http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows8_1-windows_install/error-code-0x80240031-installing-81-from-windows/0c91e8f6-ca97-4700-a2b9-38d23c6655a8?page=1 the fourth reply in the thread) it worked with no trouble at all. I also disabled Windows Defender when I downloaded it but this works. After two days of struggle, and many many attempts at a fix, the update is finally installed and 8.1 works.

Any one with this error code on a tablet try this method. If it worked for me it will probably work for you too. Try even if you aren't using a tablet, it still might work.

Thank you Harsh Trivedi I am eternally grateful.

A Microsoft engineer has posted a fix to this problem See the post marked as Answer here: http://answers.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/forum/windows8_1-windows_install/windows-81-upgrade-fails-with-error-code/e4bd43b8-cca8-4c44-b2c3-5977130bb46f

Change your primary DNS to 4.2.2.1 and secondary DNS to 4.2.2.2.

I've wasted a whole week on this stupid issue. Hope this would work for you also >.<"

According to the Microsoft tier 2 support representative, the error code "Is due to an error in the network." They went on to say that it is mostly caused by a slow network and/or inconsistency in the speed. This is the solution that I was given:

Step 1. Take a flash drive to a public place, friend's, or relative's house with fast internet access.

Step 2. Go to this webpage: http://www.vinaybalraj.blogspot.in/

Step 3. Download the correct file for your computer. This might take some time, depending on the speed of the internet.

Step 4. Take the flash drive to your computer and upload it to your computer. Internet is not required because you are uploading it.

Step 5. If it downloads completely and correctly, skip to step 7.

           If it fails continue to step 6.

Step 6. Go to this webpage for help from Microsoft technicians:

https://support.microsoft.com/ContactUs/TechnicalSupport?wa=wsignin1.0#gsproductselector

Step 7. Windows 8.1 should be downloaded correctly!

I am tired of trying. I used an Ethernet connection and tried the WiFi as well.. I even changed the IP address and all that sh*t but the download wouldn't proceed.. Now, I have stopped looking for solutions because I know MS won't help anyway. That's why the other brands are trusted by people. I am afraid MS will loose if it's officials came down to bantering with the troubled customers. Clearly they aren't smart enough to have a row with us!  No offence but Apple is much much better at customer servicing.