Xampp doesn't show the files - it pulses madly instead

[kupe]

I've installed three different versions of xampp onto a new laptop, and I get the same reaction from each -

When I click on a database, the left part of the browser shows the tables in the db, as usual.

But the main part of the browser pulses between what the taskbar describes as looking for the site, finding the site and waiting for a reply.

Occasionally, it produces the files and works satisfactorily. Then, the next time, it goes into this jerky mode.

Anyone experienced this please? Anyone know the answer?