Update: Big Ron got back to me and confirmed there are versions of GTL that do not have an online code! What the heck is the point to selling an app like that?
Anyway, knowing that, I will install my other copy and see if it is stable.
I will use the other one for LAN racing I quess.
Meanwhile, I have learned:
If you buy retail, open the pkg and see what keys are included. Also, check with online vendors to see what theirs includes.
If you can't find the bude server, check the .PLR text file to make sure the bude hooks are in place. Running the Autoupdater should make this happen.
Install the app, unlock it, then create a driver (called 'sample' or 'default'

to get a .PLR file with standard settings as a baseline.
Then, load the Altbierbude Autoupdater and load all the cars and tracks (updater 'tweaks' menu has a radio btn which fills your bank acc't and unlocks all the cars etc.).
Read these forums before you make all the mistakes yourself.
Like driving, take your time, think, and do it right. When you log onto the Altbierbude lobby and screw it up (as I did) it is a hassle to get your mistake fixed. Eg. I have my Starforce unlock code in my registry as the online code (dedicated server did this for me, or I entered it the one time GTL asked me for it).
I will be uninstalling GTL, otherwise I would have to edit the registry.
That's all I know so far. I'm sure by the time I finally race on Altbierbude I will have learned some more. I'm just afraid I will not live long enough to know enough!
And remember, the men in Germany are hotter than other countries women probably because:
1. Most other countries hot women have moved to Canada!
2. These hot German 'men' are women in drag!
3. There are no real men in Germany anymore, they all died driving Nordschleife!
I jest, I have encountered some amazing guys(from all over then world)on the tracks at the other budes.
l8r, happy motoring, altmax/maxtork/chuck.