What does the Java Virtual Machine (JVM) do?

The Java Virtual Machine (JVM) serves as a crucial component in the Java programming ecosystem by running Java bytecode on any platform. This functionality arises from the design principle of Java, which emphasizes "write once, run anywhere." When Java source code is compiled, it is transformed into an intermediate representation known as bytecode. The JVM is responsible for executing this bytecode, allowing Java applications to run seamlessly across different operating systems and hardware configurations without requiring source code recompilation.

The JVM achieves platform independence by abstracting the underlying hardware and operating system details, creating a standardized environment where Java applications can perform consistently. This not only enhances portability but also provides a layer of security and memory management through features like garbage collection, enabling efficient execution of Java applications in a variety of environments.