A software-based computer that runs its own operating system and applications on shared physical hardware.
A virtual machine (VM) behaves like a separate physical computer, with its own virtual CPU, memory, storage, and network interface. A layer of software called a hypervisor divides a physical server's resources among multiple VMs and keeps them isolated from one another.
Virtualization transformed data centers by letting one powerful server replace many underused ones, and it is the foundation of cloud infrastructure services. Developers use VMs to test software on different operating systems, and security researchers use them to analyze malware safely. Compared with containers, VMs are heavier, since each includes a full operating system, but they provide stronger isolation. Popular hypervisors include VMware ESXi, Microsoft Hyper-V, KVM, and VirtualBox for desktops.
Delivering computing resources such as servers, storage, databases, and software over the internet on a pay-as-you-go basis.
ContainerA lightweight, portable package that bundles an application with its dependencies so it runs the same way across different environments.
Infrastructure as a ServiceA cloud model, known as IaaS, in which a provider rents out computing resources such as virtual servers, storage, and networking on demand.
KernelThe core part of an operating system that manages hardware, memory, processes, and communication between software and devices.
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