Which of the following best defines a virtual machine (VM)?

A virtual machine (VM) is best defined as an emulation of a computer system that operates like a physical computer. Essentially, a VM provides all of the functionality of a physical computer, enabling applications and operating systems to run as if they were on actual hardware. This includes having its own memory, CPU, and storage resources, all of which are allocated from the physical hardware of the host machine where the VM operates.

This definition captures the core functionality of a VM, highlighting its ability to simulate hardware yet exist solely as software. It leverages hypervisors to abstract the underlying physical infrastructure, making it possible to run multiple VMs on a single physical server. Thus, users can benefit from resource optimization, isolation, and increased flexibility in managing IT environments.

The other choices do not align with the definition of a virtual machine. A physical server is, by definition, tangible hardware rather than an emulation. Network storage solutions refer to data storage accessible over a network and do not cover the aspect of virtualization. Lastly, a hardware component refers to individual parts of a computer system and does not encompass the concept of a virtual machine as a software-based emulator of a computer system.