@charliestevens That's normal. Software controller needs to re-adopt the devices because it lost connection to the devices before.

Most of the configurations can work without Controller, but a few of advanced function requires keeping controller online.

Check the details: Will the Configuration Still Work with EAPs When the Omada Controller Goes Offline?

  @charliestevens 

As Somnus said this is not un-expected if you are restarting the controller software.  

Generally, software controllers are designed to be run on dedicated server hardware that operate 24/7, laptop isn't really the designed target.  

For your setting, you would be better to either invest in an OC200 hardware controller, or setup the software controller on a Docker / Raspberry Pi Server that can run all the time without any interruptions.

  @Somnus Thanks very much all makes sense!

  @Philbert That's great, thank you for your recommendations!