It's been a while since I've used Windows, but I don't think using the Microsoft Gaming Store stops you from installing software from the internet. I could be wrong.

The Microsoft Store now allows you to use your own payment processing to avoid giving them a cut at all (https://blogs.windows.com/windowsexperience/2021/06/24/build...). They also allow the installation of other app stores.

Microsoft has been overly keen to open up their own store on Windows to use as a cudgel against Apple in future courtroom cases such as the Epic one.

>The Microsoft Store now allows you to use your own payment processing to avoid giving them a cut at all

Not for games. https://www.engadget.com/microsoft-zero-percent-cut-doesnt-e...

you mean like how I'm free to install any games I wish to download on my PC without Microsoft taking a cut?