Updating to Windows 10 Frustration (Windows 8/8.1)

I’m finally getting around to upgrading a couple of machines that I neglected to upgrade to Windows 10 during the free update. As I technically qualify for the still free update for those that utilize accessibility features, I’m finally getting around to upgrading them. However, both of these machines are experiencing the same symptoms… ultimately resulting in failure to upgrade (free or not).

I suspect that part of the problem may be related to not having the latest updates for the current OS. Here’s where the problem really starts… for whatever reason, not able to get the updates!

I should mention that these machines were completely up-to-date when they were shelved but have been sitting around collecting dust for ages. So there are probably a ton of updates available. I’ve attempted letting this process run (checking for updates) for over 24 hours with no success.

I found a page on Microsoft.com that provides 5 concrete steps to try in order to kick-start Windows Update on Windows 8.1; so I suppose I’ll have to give each of these a try. As I type this, the first entry appears to have not worked.

I’m adding this link here so I can easily find it in the near future.