Is a Microsoft Outlook Account mandatory to be able to 'shop' in the Windows Store?

In the Windows Store is the upgrade software from Win 8 to 8.1. Any idea of by-passing that 'App' store completely to get the 8.1 stuff, if one's Win 8 'machine'** comes pre-loaded with Win 8?
** machine is a generic term for Notebooks, Desktops, and
Laptops.

And on System Recovery DVD/USB/hard drive set, does it contain the various standard drivers, such as for Soundcards, Displays/Monitors, Comm Ports, etc ?

And on RJ45 10/100/1000 connection, is it supposed to take precedence over a wireless (WiFi) connection for a 'machine'** if a ethernet cord with a RJ45 is plugged into the appropriate socket?
I have asked this question to a techie friend who works in a local computer store; he looked at me as if I had just arrived from Mercury. He said what part of the solar system was I living before, and where did I find a machine which does not, but he did not give me a straight answer. Perhaps I got him in his jovial mood.


Appreciate you good people's help !!!