Why do we need to minimize the network activity of ~30 people? If it's a question of everyone doing it, could possibly add a level limit to it.

Then why are people allowed to circumvent it?

Perhaps the addition of a certain command that you can type in to prevent you from being afk kicked would be a method that satisfies all parties?

By the way, I actually appreciate that the system kicks me if I am afk for too long. It gives me a definate answer for whether or not it has been at least 15 minutes since I have last advertised, and I often accidentally leave chat open and it will steadily consume my internet allotment.

I believe it is so that people don't leave the chat room open and walk away from the computer (as I have often accidentally done). I believe it is also to make sure that chat doesn't get filled by people who are not actually at their computer.

I do like the idea of this, some people come into the chat and sit and watch.

Alternatively - Extend the afk timer