Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)
The EVM is the deterministic runtime that executes smart contract bytecode on Ethereum and EVM-compatible networks.
- Acronym
- EVM
- Also known as
- EVM
The Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) is the execution environment for Ethereum smart contracts. Every node must compute the same result from the same transaction, so EVM execution is deterministic.
The EVM uses a stack-based instruction set with temporary memory, persistent contract storage, logs, and access to limited blockchain context. It is sandboxed from the host computer's file system and network.
EVM operations consume gas, which prices computation, storage, and transaction bandwidth. Gas prevents infinite loops and makes users pay for the network resources their transactions consume.
EVM compatibility lets other networks run similar bytecode and use Ethereum tooling, wallets, and development libraries. Compatibility does not mean identical security, decentralization, fees, or bridge risk.
Related terms
2 linkedExplore connected entries beyond the alphabetical index.
Ethereum (ETH)
→Ethereum is a proof-of-stake smart contract blockchain; ETH is its native asset used for gas, staking, and settlement.
Decentralized Exchange
→A decentralized exchange (DEX) lets users trade digital assets from their wallets through smart contracts or peer-to-peer settlement.
All terms and definitions may update as the Cryptionary improves.
