I just started replaying DAO on my PS3 today. Ha ethe same issue, cannot connect to online servers.
However, I haven't replayed long enough to see if it still applies or if I am just lucky. My DLCs were already downloaded to the system years ago, so far it seems I still have access to them, for now. I guess if my system fails one day, I 'll be out of luck and unable to download the DLCs to a new system. (Yes, they still sell new and refurbished PS3s in 2019 in my area of the world!)
It's a pity this stuff happens; requiring access to a server to play DLCs or even original content that was paid for brings us back to the days of "caveat emptor" as access can cease at anytime if you read the license agreement fine print--one of the many reasons why I've stopped purchasing games that require an Internet connection and access to proprietary servers. I just replay the old titles in my libraries ... until I can't.
At least DAO has provided me with years of pleasure and replay value! Good luck to you.
