I feel the same way. I bought into HexOS in the rush to get in on the initial launch price and didn't quite realize the non-local first concept. I only want it to use internet for license, updates, and apps. The cloud command deck is a non-starter for me and almost makes me want a refund.
As an extra bonus where I'm definitely a minority on, I'd prefer an option for offline update files even. Then I could have HexOS on my locked down no-internet VLAN and only update/deploy app bundles to it at my leisure. I know many think that goes against the simplicity of HexOS, but I find TrueNAS to be overly complex and would prefer HexOS simplicity for setting up pools and shares along with just having a zip/tarball to upload for updates/apps. I IT all day and don't want to come home to a TrueNAS mess, but also don't want to succumb to a cloud/internet first service. I'll choose TrueNAS complexity over internet requirements especially given the free price tag.
