To the kernel, all open files are referred to by file descriptors. A file descriptor is a non-negative integer. When we open an existing file or create a new file, the kernel returns a file descriptor to the process.
The news that the software giant will now allow companies such as McAfee and Symantec access tothekernel of the 64-bit version of Vista has been met with cautious approval.
If the Union expands to, say, 20 members over the next five years or so, it will be harder still for the integrationists to create even thekernel of a United States of Europe.