Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Virtual Machines in Azure

A virtual machine (VM) is a software-based emulation of a physical computer system. It allows users to run multiple operating systems and applications on a single physical machine, thus enabling them to isolate and run different tasks or programs in separate environments. VMs are commonly used for software development, testing, running multiple operating systems on a single machine, and server consolidation. They provide flexibility, scalability, and efficiency in managing and utilizing computing resources.