Definition
WASM (WebAssembly) is a low-level, binary instruction format designed as a portable compilation target for high-level languages. In blockchain systems, it functions as a deterministic execution environment for on-chain code, such as smart contracts and runtime logic. As a system component, WASM specifies a virtual machine model, type system, and execution semantics that enable sandboxed, resource-constrained computation across heterogeneous nodes.
In Simple Terms
WASM is a compact machine-like code format that blockchains use to run programs in a controlled, predictable way. It defines a virtual machine where smart contract code can execute safely and consistently on many different computers that participate in a network.
Context and Usage
Within blockchain architectures, WASM is referenced as an execution layer component that hosts smart contract logic or core protocol logic. It is discussed in relation to virtual machine design, determinism, gas metering, and cross-language compilation targets. Protocol specifications, node implementations, and validator software often treat WASM as the standardized runtime environment for validating and executing state transitions across the network.