Understanding the GraalVM architecture

In this section, we will look at the various architectural components of GraalVM. We will look at how various runtimes, tools, and frameworks come together to provide the most advanced VM and runtime. The following diagram shows the high-level architecture of GraalVM:

Figure 3.1 – Graal VM architecture

Let's go through each of these components in detail.

JVM (HotSpot)

JVM HotSpot is the regular Java HotSpot VM. The C2 compiler, which is part of the HotSpot VM, is replaced with the Graal JIT compiler implementation. The Graal JIT compiler is an implementation of Java Virtual Machine Compiler Interface (JVMCI) and plugs into the Java VM. We covered the architecture of JVM HotSpot in the previous chapters. Please refer to them for a more in-depth understanding of how JVM HotSpot works and the various architectural components of JVM.

Java Virtual Machine Compiler Interface (JVMCI)

JVMCI was introduced...