What is a Virtual Machine (VM)?
A Virtual Machine (VM) is a software-based computer that runs inside another computer. It acts like a real computer, with its own operating system, storage, memory, and applications, but it runs as a program on your actual machine (host).
Think of a VM like running a separate computer inside your computer!
Why Use a Virtual Machine?
✅ Run multiple operating systems (Windows inside macOS, Linux inside Windows, etc.).
✅ Develop apps for different platforms
✅ Create a secure environment for experiments.
✅ Use old software that doesn't run on modern OS.
How Does a Virtual Machine Work?
A Virtual Machine runs on a physical computer (host machine) using a hypervisor.
Why Use a Virtual Machine?
✅ Host Machine – Your actual computer
✅ Hypervisor – Software that creates and manages virtual machines
✅ Guest Machine – The Virtual Machine (VM) running inside the host
Examples of Virtual Machines
VM Software (Hypervisors):- VMware Workstation (Windows and Linux)
- VirtualBox (Free, cross-platform)
- Parallels Desktop (For macOS)
- Microsoft Hyper-V (For Windows)
- Run Windows inside macOS.
- Run Linux inside Windows
- iOS (Used in iPhones and iPads).
- Run Android inside PC for app testing
Types of Virtual Machines
System Virtual Machine- Runs a full operating system inside your computer.
- Example: Running Windows on a Mac using VirtualBox.
- Runs a single application inside a controlled environment.
- Example: Java Virtual Machine (JVM) for running Java apps.
- iOS (Used in iPhones and iPads).
- Run Android inside PC for app testing
Advantages of Virtual Machines
✅ Run multiple OS on one device
✅ Isolate programs for security
✅ Easy to back up and restore
Disadvantages
✅ Uses more RAM and CPU than running software natively
✅ Can be slower than a real machine
Summary
✅ A Virtual Machine (VM) is software that acts like a real computer inside another computer.
✅ It allows running multiple operating systems on the same device.
✅ Uses a hypervisor to create and manage VMs.
✅ Common for testing, development, and security purposes.