Ethereum Virtual Machine
The Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) is a decentralized, Turing-complete virtual machine that executes smart contracts on the Ethereum blockchain. It processes transactions and runs code in a sandboxed environment, ensuring deterministic execution across all nodes in the network. The EVM is the core runtime engine that enables decentralized applications (dApps) and automated agreements to function on Ethereum.
Developers should learn the EVM to build and deploy smart contracts, dApps, and decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols on Ethereum, as it provides the foundational execution layer. It is essential for creating trustless applications, token standards like ERC-20, and interacting with blockchain state, making it crucial for roles in blockchain development, Web3, and cryptocurrency projects.