What is the EVM?

The Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) is like the "brain" of the Ethereum blockchain. It's what makes Ethereum special and allows it to perform tasks that other blockchains can't.

Virtual Computer

Imagine the EVM as a giant, virtual computer that exists across thousands of computers (called nodes) all over the world. When you use Ethereum, you're interacting with this virtual computer.

Smart Contracts

A smart contract is like a small computer program that runs on the EVM. These programs can perform tasks automatically, such as sending money, keeping records, or running a decentralized app (dApp). Once deployed, a smart contract remains on the blockchain, accessible to all, but unchangeable by anyone.

Programming Language

Smart contracts on Ethereum are typically written in a language called Solidity. When you write a smart contract in Solidity, it gets converted into bytecode, which the EVM executes.

How Does the EVM Work?

Running Smart Contracts

When you want to use a smart contract, your request is sent to the EVM. The EVM reads the bytecode of the smart contract and executes it as specified.

Gas and Fees

The EVM doesn't operate for free. Each action (like running a smart contract) incurs a cost known as "gas," paid in Ether (ETH). More complex actions require more gas.

Why Gas?

Gas fees exist to maintain network safety. Without them, the EVM could be overwhelmed with excessive requests, leading to potential slowdowns or crashes. Requiring gas ensures that users request meaningful work from the EVM.

Decentralization

The EVM runs on every Ethereum node globally. Thus, when you ask the EVM to perform an action, thousands of computers validate the work, making the network secure and trustworthy.

Isolation

Each smart contract operates in its own isolated environment within the EVM. This means that if one contract encounters issues, it won't affect others or the network itself.

EVM vs. Other Systems

Bitcoin

Bitcoin, the first blockchain, does not have an EVM. Its system is simpler and primarily handles transactions. In contrast, the EVM supports more complex tasks like running dApps.

Other Blockchains

Other blockchains, like Binance Smart Chain and Polygon, have versions of the EVM or are compatible with it. This allows developers to create apps that function across multiple blockchains.

Why is the EVM Important?

Flexibility

The EVM enables Ethereum to support a range of applications, from decentralized finance (DeFi) to unique digital art (NFTs), earning it the title "world computer."

Innovation

Being Turing complete, the EVM empowers developers to find new and innovative uses for Ethereum, resulting in countless dApps and emerging technologies.

Compatibility

Many new blockchains aim for compatibility with Ethereum, the leading platform for smart contracts. This ensures they can easily support Ethereum’s applications and contracts.

Summary

The Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) is the powerful engine driving the Ethereum blockchain. It enables smart contracts and dApps, operating across thousands of nodes for security and decentralization. The concept of "gas" maintains network safety by requiring payment for computational work. Thus, Ethereum transcends being merely a cryptocurrency; it is a platform for the future of decentralized applications.