Windows 8 to 8.1

i purchased a new laptop last week: Lenovo G500.it has Windows 8 pre-installed.at present i am still using the pre-installed McAfee Internet security programme for my AV;i have successfully done all updates(which are set to automatic)

however-despite 5 attempts to free upgrade to 8.1 i am still getting the Error Code 0x80072ee2 message and installation fails. on checking this out i am finding 'fixes' but these require installation of 'repair tool' type applications(only operable if bought etc)
the Microsoft site is equally vague on finding fixes for this. any member have comment or advice on this or point me to any previous posts on this?
thx for any input on this.