Internet Terms-K

kbps (kilobytes per second) the standard measurement for the transfer of data via a modem.

Kermit a file transfer protocol developed and freely distributed by Columbia University. Kermit is noted for accuracy but not speed.

kernel (sometimes spelled kernal) the central component of an operating system, responsible for disk, memory, task and process management.

kerning adjusting the space between characters in a word, a line of text, or an entire document to allow the text to align or fit properly. This is accomplished by placing characters closer together or farther apart.

key 1. a keyboard button containing a character, numeral or special command. 2.
a password for access to encrypted data or one used to gain entry to a subscriber Website or a private network.

keyboard the input device resembling typewriter keys used to enter data into a computer. The keyboard contains the individual letters of the alphabet, numerals and a host of special command or function keys. see

key pal a term describing an online correspondence buddy contacted either by email, or through a chat forum.

keyword 1. a word that has a special meaning, or identifies a specific file or document within a program. For example, in the Windows environment, if a user forgot where a particular document was created, he could initiate a search for the document by left clicking on Start then Find, then, Files or Folders. Typing a “keyword” such as a single word from the document’s title will prompt a search of all files. 2. When searching for a Web page or information from any of the many search engines, the user will type in a word related to the page or topic. In this case the keyword could be a single word or a phrase.

kilo the metric prefix representing X 1000.

kilobyte 1000 bytes, however, the technical or true value is 1024.

kiosk a free standing computer in a mall, airport, or a commonly traveled public location that offers a user the ability to obtain information, often with touchscreen access. For example, a kiosk at a bus station might offer a menu of bus schedules.

kluge slang term for a temporary fix to a problem.