🔥$100K Hit! Where Will Bitcoin Go Next? Find Out Live!
Crypto Terms:  Letter V
Jul 07, 2023 |
updated: Apr 02, 2024

What is Virtual Machine?

Virtual Machine Meaning:
Virtual Machine - a distributed system that is intended to mimic the architecture of a computer.
medium
2 minutes

Let's find out Virtual Machine meaning, definition in crypto, what is Virtual Machine, and all other detailed facts.

An operating system, programs, and files are all part of a virtual machine (VM). It functions similarly to a real computer. An OS can run programs, host web pages, and connect to other systems in the network. VM looks like a window that runs on the operating system of a computer when it is seen on the screen.

VM contains a CPU, memory, and storage. However, these are all virtual rather than physical. Numerous virtual machines can exist next to each other on a single server as a result of this.

The server manages multiple VMs using a software called a hypervisor. The hypervisor connects the virtual hardware of the VM with the server's physical components. Theoretically, one physical server can run two, three, and many more virtual machines. Practically, the number is limited by the server's resources. This is because an excessive amount of VMs can result in poor performance.

The Main Purpose of Virtual Machines

Essentially, virtual machines are sandboxes. Sandboxes are isolated areas of virtual space. Various programs operate on sandboxes without interfering with the rest of the system. This is the reason why virtual machines are great for testing new software. In addition, they can be used to run potentially harmful applications.

The VM allows the user to run a different or an older operating system. This provides the user with the ability to utilize software that is incompatible with the computer's operating system. Thus, you could use a virtual machine to run macOS software on a Windows device to test out how it would work.

The Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)

One of the key examples of VM is the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM). The EVM is used to execute smart contracts on all nodes on the Ethereum network. This process provides significant security benefits for the Ethereum platform because it takes place in a distinct sandbox. This makes Ethereum immune to DDoS attacks, which are a popular hacking method.