Playback Failed Because Roon Couldn't connect to HQPlayer on Windows 10 desktop

Roon Core Machine

Windows 10 with McAfee, Intel i7 13700K, 32GB DDR5

Networking Gear & Setup Details

Realtek Ethernet Driver with separate gigabit ethernet card installed just for connecting it to Merging NADAC

Connected Audio Devices

Merging NADAC via Ethernet - RJ45

Number of Tracks in Library

Approx 7000

Description of Issue

Whenever I am trying to play to HQPlayer it is giving me the error of “Playback Failed Because Roon Couldn’t connect to HQPlayer”, when both Roon core & HQPlayer are installed on the same desktop. Earlier i was able o connect to HQPlayer and play, but now I am not able to. Please help as its very frustrating. I am HQPlayer for desktop (licensed version) with latest version running (HQPlayer 4.21.1) for both Roon & HQPlayer. The address for HQPlayer is given as localhost inside Roon. I have tried disabling McAfee & it’s firewall, but still no luck.

“Allow network control” button is pressed down in HQPlayer toolbar (the right most button)?