Internet requirement - what happens if location has no connectivity?

[robobob]

Hello.  I did a basic search and didn't see this topic being discussed.  I'm currently about a week into a trial of BYE and have been pleased with the results, particularly as I do not have a remote so BYE has been a valued tool to setup my shots and to initiate them without touching the camera.  2 nights ago I drove to the spot I have been visiting and resumed my laptop from hibernation with BYE already running prior to being put into hibernate.  Everything was great for about an hour until the software crashed.  When I re-opened it I was greeted by the a login screen with my license key pre-populated and a field to enter my username.  I no longer have hotspot function on my phone after having to downgrade due to covid-related budget problems, so long story short I cannot provide internet to the laptop when out in the middle of nowhere in search of dark skies.

I was leaning towards purchasing a license since I have had some good results when using BYE, but need to know if this problem will re-occur.  It was one thing having it happen 30 minutes from home, but I've been eyeing a site 3 hours away for the next new moon.  The thought of making that drive to the middle of nowhere and then coming home empty-handed because I can't start the software is something I don't wish to experience.  Once I pay for the software does it still need internet each and every time it starts???  Surely the developers realize the pool of potential customers for this software are going to be using it, by default, in places where internet is hard to come by.  Am I missing something here?

[astroman133]

Only the Trial license requires an internet connection. This is because the program needs to check that the license is still valid. You can thank the people who tried to fudge their Trial license by changing their system clock.

The purchased Classic and Premium license have no such requirement since they are permanent.

[robobob]

3 minutes ago, astroman133 said:

Only the Trial license requires an internet connection. This is because the program needs to check that the license is still valid. You can thank the people who tried to fudge their Trial license by changing their system clock.

The purchased Classic and Premium license have no such requirement since they are permanent.

Okay perfect!  That seals the deal then, I'm buying a permanent license for this wonderful software.