A virtual machine is defined as
What Does Virtual Machine (VM) Mean?A virtual machine (VM) is an image file managed by the hypervisor that exhibits the behavior of a separate computer, capable of performing tasks such as running applications and programs like a separate computer. Show
In other words, a VM is a software application that performs most functions of a physical computer, actually behaving as a separate computer system. A virtual machine, usually known as a guest, is created within another computing environment referred as a "host." Multiple virtual machines can exist within a single host at one time. Techopedia Explains Virtual Machine (VM)Virtual machines are becoming more common with the evolution of virtualization technology. Virtual machines are often created to perform certain tasks that are different than tasks performed in a host environment. They are also widely implemented as a sandboxed environment that are separated from the rest of the network. For example, they can be used for testing purposes, especially to perform risky tasks such as running malicious software, testing operating systems, and accessing malware-infected data. VMs are also used in production and as back-ups. Virtual machines are implemented by software emulation methods or hardware virtualization techniques. A lightweight software known as hypervisor allocates the computing resources (RAM, CPU power, memory, storage, etc.) of the server or host to each VM, keeping all of them separate to avoid interference. The computer’s operating system and applications are separated from its hardware so that each new virtual machine can access the physical resources of the original server, which are managed by the hypervisor. The VM has virtual hardware resources that map to the physical hardware on the server (host). This allows for load balancing of resources across VMs on a single host. Depending on their use and level of correspondence to any physical computer, virtual machines can be divided into two categories: System Virtual MachinesA system platform that supports the sharing of the host computer's physical resources between multiple virtual machines, each running with its own copy of the operating system. The virtualization technique is provided by the hypervisor, which can run either on bare hardware or on top of an operating system. Process Virtual MachineAlso known as application VM, a process virtual machine is designed to provide a platform-independent programming environment that supports a single process. It is created when the process is started, and destroyed upon exit. A process VM is used to mask the information of the underlying hardware or operating system, and allows program execution to take place in the same way on any given platform. Pros and Cons of Virtual MachinesSome of the advantages of a virtual machine include:
Some of the drawbacks of virtual machines include:
A virtual machine (VM) is a digital version of a physical computer. Virtual machine software can run programs and operating systems, store data, connect to networks, and do other computing functions, and requires maintenance such as updates and system monitoring. Learn about virtual machines and VM family types that are available with Compute Engine, the cloud-based computing infrastructure from Google Cloud. Ready to get started? New customers get $300 in free credits to spend on Google Cloud. Virtual machine definedA VM is a virtualized instance of a computer that can perform almost all of the same functions as a computer, including running applications and operating systems. Virtual machines run on a physical machine and access computing resources from software called a hypervisor. The hypervisor abstracts the physical machine’s resources into a pool that can be provisioned and distributed as needed, enabling multiple VMs to run on a single physical machine. How multiple virtual machines workMultiple VMs can be hosted on a single physical machine, often a server, and then managed using virtual machine software. This provides flexibility for compute resources (compute, storage, network) to be distributed among VMs as needed, increasing overall efficiency. This architecture provides the basic building blocks for the advanced virtualized resources we use today, including cloud computing. Solve your business challenges with Google CloudNew customers get $300 in free credits to spend on Google Cloud. Get started Talk to a Google Cloud sales specialist to discuss your unique challenge in more detail. Contact us What are virtual machines used for?VMs are the basic building blocks of virtualized computing resources and play a primary role in creating any application, tool, or environment—for virtual machines online and on-premises. Here are a few of the more common enterprise functions of virtual machines: Consolidate serversVMs can be set up as servers that host other VMs, which lets organizations reduce sprawl by concentrating more resources onto a single physical machine. Create development and test environmentsVMs can serve as isolated environments for testing and development that include full functionality but have no impact on the surrounding infrastructure. Support DevOpsVMs can easily be turned off or on, migrated, and adapted, providing maximum flexibility for development. Enable workload migrationThe flexibility and portability that VMs provide are key to increasing the velocity of migration initiatives. Improve disaster recovery and business continuityReplicating systems in cloud environments using VMs can provide an extra layer of security and certainty. Cloud environments can also be continuously updated. Create a hybrid environmentVMs provide the foundation for creating a cloud environment alongside an on-premises one, bringing flexibility without abandoning legacy systems. Related products and servicesCompute Engine, Google Cloud’s flexible virtual machine offering, provides computing infrastructure in the form of predefined and customizable VMs. It’s designed to accelerate cloud transformation.
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Why is it called a virtual machine?A virtual machine (VM) is a virtual environment that functions as a virtual computer system with its own CPU, memory, network interface, and storage, created on a physical hardware system (located off- or on-premises).
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