A voting machine is a device used to cast and count votes in elections. These machines can vary in design, but they typically allow voters to select their choices electronically or through a paper ballot. Voting machines help streamline the voting process, making it faster and more efficient. There are different types of voting machines, including optical scan systems and direct recording electronic (DRE) machines. Optical scan systems read marked paper ballots, while DRE machines allow voters to make selections on a touchscreen. Both types aim to ensure accurate and secure vote counting during elections.