Downloadable zip files - non-automated

I have yet to set up the zencart for this store but have used zen for years so am familiar with everything other than digital downloads.
I need to make sure I have this correct

If I set the default Order Status to PENDING and the client pays through Paypal, the file STILL could not be downloaded until I set the status to Processed or whatever I decide?

The customer needs to pay me for the poduct, but then has to send me a fax of a license that they have the rights to use the product I am supplying (can't get more vague than that can you) :)

So, until I get the license confirmation from the client, they should not be able to download the file.

Hope this makes sense and if this is correct my life just became a lot easier.

Thanks

If you set the Order Status setting in your PayPal module to "Pending" then yes, ALL your sales will sit in Pending status until you MANUALLY update EACH of them ... one at a time. This includes digital sales as well as physical.

NOTE: I'm referring to the Order Status IN THE PAYPAL MODULE, and that affects ONLY payments made with THAT MODULE.

Your post said "default Order Status". If you were actually referring to the list of Order Status choices under the Localization menu and setting one of those as a "Default", then that setting NAMED "Default" would only apply to Payment Modules which have selected "Default" as their Order Status setting. NORMALLY THIS "Default" IS NOT USED, IN FAVOR OF SETTING SPECIFIC ORDER-STATUS SETTINGS INSIDE EACH MODULE.

Yep got it, that is kind of what I meant but I wasn't too clear.. yes, pending as default for all transaction methods.
Thanks so much!
Whew! Life just got a bit easier. :)