What is Hyper-V used for in the Windows operating system?

Hyper-V is a virtualization technology included in the Windows operating system that allows users to create and manage virtual machines. This capability enables the running of multiple operating systems on a single physical machine, allowing for efficient use of hardware resources. With Hyper-V, users can create isolated environments for testing software, running different applications, or even hosting servers, all within separate virtual instances. The technology supports features like snapshots for backups, dynamic memory for efficient memory usage, and integration services for improved performance of the virtual machines.

The function of creating and running virtual machines is essential in various scenarios, such as software development, testing, and server virtualization for businesses. This ability to simulate multiple computing environments helps organizations optimize resources and reduce costs, making Hyper-V a valuable tool in modern computing environments.