Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)

The Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) is the runtime environment responsible for executing smart contracts on the Ethereum blockchain. It acts as a decentralized global computer, ensuring that smart contract code runs consistently across all nodes in the network, regardless of where they are located. The EVM plays a critical role in allowing developers to build decentralized applications (Dapps) and execute complex logic in a trustless manner.

The EVM enables developers to write smart contracts in programming languages like Solidity, which are then compiled into bytecode and executed on the EVM. This ensures that all Ethereum nodes reach the same consensus regarding the outcome of smart contract executions, preserving the integrity of the network.