Using an offline license disables cloud-based features. You will not be able to use the RealVNC cloud to discover or connect to devices outside your local network.
| Aspect | Online/Floating License | Offline Exclusive License File | |--------|------------------------|-------------------------------| | | Yes (for check-out/check-in) | No (except to generate file) | | Seat sharing | Yes (concurrent usage) | No (1 machine only) | | Move license | Automatic (check-in/out) | Manual deactivation + new file | | Management | Central server | Per-machine files | | Best for | Dynamic, connected teams | Secure, static, air-gapped systems | vnc+offline+license+file+exclusive
A German auto parts manufacturer with 300 headless Ubuntu servers. Problem: They cannot run a floating license manager due to firewall rules between VLANs. Solution: Each server gets its own exclusive static file. The "exclusivity" prevents an admin from accidentally licensing a dev server with a prod file. Using an offline license disables cloud-based features