Mac OS not finding servers unless client installed as service

I have a weird issue where on my Mac, I can’t see the usb server I have on the network yet my windows laptop can. The second I select the option on Mac to “install client as service” I can now see the server? Any ideas why that would be? 

I’m only doing a one to one link to extend a streamdeck over the network so don’t need the functions of purchasing the server licence yet but the Mac won’t connect to a non purchased server all the while it’s installed as client. Any thoughts why the standalone Mac install can’t find the server? 

#2

Sounds like a network permissions issue.The Mac should popup a dialog asking to allow network access when you run the client normally. Can you add virtualhere client to network permissions in Mac security.

#3

Apparently, turning that permission off then back on again gave it a kick…… classic! Thank you.