What is typically a core component of Docker’s architecture?

The core component of Docker's architecture is Docker Images. Docker Images serve as the blueprint for creating Docker containers. They are read-only templates that contain everything needed to run an application, including the code, runtime, libraries, environment variables, and configuration files. When a Docker image is executed, it becomes an instance called a container, which is a lightweight and portable executable package. This encapsulation allows developers to build, ship, and run applications in a consistent environment across different systems, regardless of the underlying infrastructure.

In contrast to other components listed, such as virtual machines, physical servers, and cloud computing resources, Docker images specifically embody the containerization concept that distinguishes Docker from traditional virtualization methods. Virtual machines involve a hypervisor and have their own operating system, which makes them heavier in terms of resource usage. Docker’s architecture, centered around images and containers, promotes efficiency and speed, making it easier and faster to deploy applications in a variety of environments.