communications A popular packet-oriented
protocol from
Columbia University for transferring text files and binary files on both
full-duplex and
half-duplex 8 bit and 7-bit serial connections in a system- and medium-independent fashion, and implemented on hundreds of different computer and
operating system platforms. On full-duplex connections a
sliding window protocol with selective retransmission provides excellent performance and error recovery characteristics. On 7-bit connections, locking shifts provide efficient transfer of 8-bit data.
When properly implemented, as in the Columbia University Kermit Software collection, performance is equal to or better than other protocols such as
ZMODEM,
YMODEM, and
XMODEM, especially on poor connections.
Kermit is an open protocol - anybody can base their own program on it, but some Kermit software and
source code is
copyright by Columbia University.
(https://columbia.edu/kermit/).
(1996-01-29)