instance1

instance1 refers to a specific occurrence or manifestation of something. In computing, it often denotes a single, independent execution of a program or a process. For example, when you open a web browser application, you are creating an instance of that browser. Each instance typically runs in its own memory space and operates independently of other instances of the same application. This allows users to run multiple copies of a program simultaneously without interference.

In object-oriented programming, an instance is a concrete object created from a class. A class acts as a blueprint, defining the properties and behaviors of a type of object. When you instantiate a class, you create an instance, which is a distinct entity with its own set of data based on the class definition. For instance, if "Car" is a class, then "myRedCar" and "yourBlueCar" could be instances of that class, each with its own color and other specific attributes.

The concept of "instance" is also relevant in other contexts, such as in database management where an instance might refer to a running copy of the database server software. In virtual machine environments, an instance represents a single virtual computer running on a host system. The term emphasizes individuality and a specific realization of a more general concept or template.