Description: An image builder is a tool or service that automates the creation of container images, facilitating the process of packaging applications and their dependencies into a format that can be run in container environments. These images are essential for deploying applications on container platforms like Kubernetes, as they allow developers and system administrators to create, manage, and deploy applications efficiently and reproducibly. Image builders often offer features such as integration with version control systems, optimization of image layers to reduce size and improve performance, and the ability to customize the build process through scripts or specific configurations. In the context of container orchestration, image builders play a crucial role by enabling the creation of images tailored to the specific needs of applications running in cloud-native environments, thus ensuring greater efficiency and flexibility in resource management.