A method and
system for operating a network
server to discourage inappropriate use are disclosed. A
server is connected to a plurality of connected
client devices, and is configured to transfer information between any selected one of the
client devices and a memory for static storage of information. The method comprises the steps of receiving a request to transfer a file between the memory and one of the plurality of
client devices, removing a packet comprising a defined number of information bits from the file, transferring the packet between the memory and the client device per the request, then pausing for a defined
delay period, and repeating the removing, transferring, and pausing steps in order until all of the file has been transferred. Preferably, the method further comprises increasing the defined
delay period after each execution of a packet transfer cycle, thereby discouraging the transfer of unacceptably large files. The
delay period may be initiated, and the amount of increase or other adjustment to the delay period during the transfer cycle may be controlled, by selected a predetermined value from a table, or by calculating a value based on variable input parameters such as the
file size,
server load, network
response time, and number of transfer requests from the client device within a defined prior period. The number of information bits in the packet may similarly be initiated, and adjusted during the transfer cycle. The
system comprises the server having an application for performing the method according to the invention.