VM (Virtual Machine)

A Virtual Machine (VM) is a software-based simulation of a physical computer. It runs an operating system and applications just like a real computer, but it's operating within another physical machine. Think of it as a "computer within a computer." VMs allow multiple separate environments on a single hardware device, offering flexibility, isolation, and efficient resource use. They are widely used for testing, development, and server hosting, enabling users to run different operating systems or software without needing multiple physical devices.