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.