What is an image registry in the context of Docker?

An image registry is fundamentally a repository designed specifically for storing and managing Docker images. This plays a crucial role in the development and deployment of containerized applications. When developers create a Docker image, they can push it to an image registry, making it available for sharing and deploying on different platforms or environments.

Image registries serve as centralized locations where multiple images can be stored, organized, and versioned, allowing teams to collaborate efficiently. This helps streamline the process of retrieving images, ensuring that the correct version is used in various applications and services.

The other options do not align with the definition of an image registry, as they either pertain to different aspects of Docker (such as performance monitoring, file storage, or command-line interfaces) that do not involve the management and storage of images. In summary, an image registry is an essential component in the Docker ecosystem, facilitating effective image management and sharing among developers and systems.