When you internet conection is via proxy-server problems with activation and loading basemaps can occure.
In this case you should set up proxy-server parameters in Sputnik.ini file.
The file is located in the installation folder, the default location is: C:\Program Files\GeoScan\Sputnik
To configure the proxy (for instance, proxy IP address - 127.0.0.1, port - 8080, login - someUserName, password - somePassword) add the following keys:
-Dhttp.proxyHost=127.0.0.1
-Dhttp.proxyPort=8080
-Dhttp.proxyUser=someUserName
-Dhttp.proxyPassword=somePassword
Be shure that ports 80 and 443 are opened.