What is a benefit of using a virtual machine for digital archives?

Using a virtual machine for digital archives provides the capability to test different operating systems without the need for any hardware changes. This is particularly valuable in archiving contexts, where various software solutions and operating systems may be employed to manage and access archived data. For instance, a digital archivist might need to evaluate how different software interfaces with the archival material or adapt to legacy systems that are no longer in widespread use. By utilizing a virtual machine, these tests can be conducted swiftly and efficiently in a controlled environment, thus allowing archivists to assess compatibility and functionality without risking the integrity or performance of the primary hardware setup. This versatility enhances flexibility and reduces costs associated with managing multiple physical machines.