What is the main purpose of the KVM module in the context of virtualization?

The primary function of the KVM (Kernel-based Virtual Machine) module in virtualization is to create virtual CPUs (vCPUs) and allocate virtual memory. KVM transforms the Linux kernel into a hypervisor, allowing it to manage multiple virtual machines (VMs). Each VM operates as an independent entity with its own operating system, and KVM enables the allocation of virtual hardware resources, which include vCPUs and memory, to these VMs. This capability is essential for delivering the computational power needed to run numerous isolated environments on a single physical server.

Other options address important aspects of virtualization but do not highlight the core purpose of KVM itself. Simulating I/O operations, managing virtual networks, and handling storage provisioning are essential services in a virtualized environment, but they are not the primary function of KVM. Instead, these tasks are usually handled by other components within the virtualization infrastructure or through additional management layers that work alongside KVM.