@markf2748 - was that the correct link to verify "Are JRiver Media Center 28 Service and Process set to always be running?" I don't see where I am able to set the Service and Process...
Link is correct - in its Reply #1:
Step 1) is done from the Microsoft Windows Settings menu.
Step 2) 1st part is done from within MC
Step 2) 2nd part is done from Windows Services app (find with windows search, searching on "Services", or use Windows File Explorer to click through
This PC > RMB > Manage > Services and Applications > Services )
If you can't find the post, let me know and I'll re-post here.
but don't have an Android app to check with.
I don't have a Denon or wired ethernet. DLNA is absent from Denon's specs, there is only a meager reference to it in the manual. So I'm just suggesting some way to look from the "outside" in to see if that piece works reliably between Denon and MC.
If you don't want to install a music player on your phone, try looking for the Denon DLNA renderer in
Windows File Explorer > Network > Media Devices. Sometimes you may also see your server laptop listed as a Media Device (DLNA) (shows up intermittently for me), but may need to look from another networked PC which has access to your server laptop.
Another check would be to use the Denon software to play from the JRiver Media Center Service 28.