What Is WASI & Why Is It Being Introduced?

Web Assembly System Interface (WASI) is a new technology that's being introduced to make it easier for software programs to run consistently across different computer systems. Think of it like a common language that allows applications to speak to the underlying hardware of various devices, whether it's a computer, a smartphone, or something else.

Now, let's break it down in simpler terms.

Imagine you have a favorite video game. If you want to play it on a different device, like switching from a computer to a tablet, there might be problems. The game is designed to work on your computer, but it might not understand how to talk to the tablet. This is where WASI comes in.

WASI acts as a translator, helping the game (or any other software) understand and communicate with the tablet or any device it wants to run on. It creates a common ground, like a universal language, making it possible for the game to run smoothly on different devices without having to be rewritten for each one.

So, why is WASI being introduced?

1. Compatibility: One big reason is to make software compatible with various devices without much hassle. Developers won't need to make separate versions of their programs for different devices.

2. Efficiency: WASI can make programs run more efficiently because it allows them to directly interact with the underlying system, cutting out unnecessary steps. This means faster and more reliable performance.

3. Security: By controlling how software interacts with the system, WASI enhances security. It ensures that programs can't do anything harmful to the device they are running on.

4. Portability: WASI makes it easy to move software around. If a program works on one device, it can easily be moved to another without much modification.

In essence, WASI is like a bridge that helps software cross over from one type of device to another, making it more versatile and user-friendly. It simplifies the way different devices understand and execute software, ultimately providing a smoother and more consistent experience for users.