A virtual machine functions as “a virtual computer that works like a computer within a computer.” These systems operate on isolated partitions with dedicated CPU, memory, and storage resources borrowed from the host machine, contained within a computer file known as an image.
Running a virtual OS requires sufficient computational power, as older computers lack the resources to support multiple operating systems simultaneously.
How do a Virtual Machine work?
Virtual machines operate through virtualization — creating virtual versions of hardware, storage, and network resources using specialized hypervisor software. This technology distributes a physical machine’s capabilities across multiple environments by simulating virtual hardware devices.
Security represents a primary advantage: “security experts are some of the people that used virtual machines the most.” They employ VMs to test questionable software in isolated environments, reducing organizational security risks.
What are VMs used for?
Historically, purchasing new servers represented significant business expenses. Virtualization technology has enabled companies to deploy virtual servers, conserving hardware resources.
The author personally uses VirtualBox for testing Linux distributions like Ubuntu and Linux Mint before installation.
Common VM applications include:
- Accessing or testing infected operating systems
- Running legacy applications on older OS versions
- Operating software across alternative operating systems
- Building and deploying cloud applications
- Evaluating new OS releases, including beta versions
- Backing up existing operating systems
How To Run a Virtual Machine
Multiple free and paid virtualization applications exist. VirtualBox is a recommended open-source alternative compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux. Commercial options include Parallels (for Apple systems) and Hyper-V (for Windows).
Popular virtual machine applications:
- VirtualBox: Described as “one of the most popular virtualization products for enterprise as well as home,” this free, open-source software runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
- VMware: Offers desktop software compatible with Linux, Microsoft Windows, and macOS.
- Parallels: Specialized macOS virtualization software with a polished interface designed specifically for Apple computers.
The Bottom Line
Virtual machines provide isolated environments where guest operating systems remain separate from host systems. “One of the greatest advantages of running an operating system in a virtual machine is security.”