What does the 'docker exec' command do?

The 'docker exec' command is specifically used to run a command inside an already running container. This command is quite powerful as it allows users to interact with the container by executing various commands in its context without having to stop or restart the container. For example, you can use 'docker exec' to access a bash shell inside the container, run scripts, or perform administrative tasks such as checking logs or inspecting system status, all while the container continues to operate normally.

This functionality is essential for debugging and managing applications in a containerized environment. It allows for dynamic interaction with running services and applications, which is a common requirement in container management and orchestration.

The other options, while related to container management, serve different purposes that do not align with the primary function of 'docker exec'. For instance, removing a container is handled by the 'docker rm' command, creating a new image involves using 'docker commit' or 'docker build', and stopping a container is done with the 'docker stop' command. Understanding these specific roles helps clarify the unique capabilities of 'docker exec'.