KB (or K) — Abbreviation for kilobyte, which is 1,024 bytes. Generally, when abbreviated Kilobyte (KB) is distinguished for Kilobit (Kb) with the case of the letter "b".

Kermit — Protocol for transferring binary files that is somewhat slower than XModem/CRC. However, Kermit allows you to transmit and receive either seven or eight data bits per character. See also X/Modem/CRC.

Kernel — 1) The core process of a preemptive operating system, consisting of a multitasking scheduler and the basic services that provide security. Depending upon the operating system, other services such as virtual memory drivers may be built into the Kernel. The Kernel is responsible for managing the scheduling of threads and processes. 2) The central part of other system software. 3) One of the core dynamic-link libraries that make up Windows.

Kernel driver — A driver that accesses hardware. See also device driver.

Kernel Memory — A NetWare memory type that contains the NetWare v3.12 kernel (and DOS if it is not removed).

Kernel mode — The processor mode that allows full, unprotected access to the system. A driver or thread running in kernel mode has access to system memory and hardware

Key — A folder that appears in the left pane of a Registry Editor window. A key can contain subkeys and value entries. For example: Environment is a key of KKEY_CURRENT_USER. See also subkey.

Key map — A mapping assignment that translates key values on synthesizers that do not conform to General MIDI standards. Key maps ensure that the appropriate percussion instrument is played or the appropriate octave for a melodic instrument is played when a MIDI file is played. See also MIDI.

KEYB — Loadable module used at the console to change keyboard language for the console.

Keyboard buffer — A temporary storage area in memory that keeps track of keys you typed, even if the computer did not immediately respond to the keys when you typed them.