What is Runtime?

Runtime, or execution time, is the final phase of a computer program's lifecycle when the code is being executed through the computer's central processing unit (CPU). Runtime can also refer to the period of time when a program is running, beginning when the program is executed (or opened) and ending when the program is closed. Generally, when a program is operating in the runtime phase, the application is utilizing Random Access Memory (RAM). Blockchains and computer networks are often designed with a pre-built runtime environment that implements portions of an execution model when needed.