K

kernel

The core of layered architecture that manages the most basic operations of the operating system and the computer s processor. The kernel schedules different blocks of executing code, called threads, for the processor to keep it as busy as possible and coordinates multiple processors to optimize performance. The kernel also synchronizes activities among Executive-level subcomponents, such as I/O Manager and Process Manager, and handles hardware exceptions and other hardware- dependent functions. The kernel works closely with the hardware abstraction layer.

kernel mode

A highly privileged mode of operation where program code has direct access to all memory, including the address spaces of all user -mode processes and applications, and to hardware. Also known as supervisor mode , protected mode , or Ring 0 .

Key

In Registry Editor, a folder that appears in the left pane of the Registry Editor window. A key can contain subkeys and entries. For example, Environment is a key of HKEY_CURRENT_USER.

In IP security (IPSec), a value used in combination with an algorithm to encrypt or decrypt data. Key settings for IPSec are configurable to provide greater security.

See also Internet Protocol security (IPSec); registry; subkey .

key pair

A private key and its related public key. See also private key; public key.