VMLAUNCH

VMLAUNCH is a term encountered in virtualization contexts to describe the component, command, or API responsible for initiating the boot process of a virtual machine. The exact meaning varies by platform, and there is no single standardized specification for VMLAUNCH across hypervisors or cloud environments.

Typically, a VMLAUNCH module coordinates the allocation of a VM's resources (CPU, memory, storage), configures virtual devices, and starts the boot sequence by loading the guest operating system through its boot loader. It operates within the hypervisor or management plane and can be invoked by administrative tools, orchestration platforms, or automation scripts via a command line or API.

In many systems, the launch process is tightly coupled with lifecycle management features such as snapshotting, live migration readiness, and security isolation. It may also set up integration with virtualization extensions, device emulation, and firmware interfaces (BIOS/UEFI) required to boot the guest.

Implementation details vary: VMLAUNCH can be a standalone binary, a library function, or a function within the hypervisor's control plane. It uses configuration parameters including VM name, allocated resources, storage backends, and network interfaces.

Because VMLAUNCH is not universally standardized, documentation often explains it in platform-specific terms; users should consult the relevant platform's guides for exact usage, options, and behavior.