How Virtual Machines are Changing the Game for Developers

A virtual machine (VM) is a software-based emulation of a physical computer that runs an operating system and applications. It allows multiple operating systems to run on a single physical machine, enabling users to run different applications and perform various tasks simultaneously.

Virtual machines are commonly used in cloud computing environments, where they provide flexibility and scalability for running different workloads on the same hardware. They also allow for easier management and deployment of applications, as virtual machines can be quickly provisioned and configured without the need for physical hardware.

Some common uses of virtual machines include software testing and development, running legacy applications, server consolidation, and disaster recovery. Virtual machines are also popular for sandboxing environments, where potentially harmful software can be run in isolation to prevent damage to the host system.