What is a Container Registry in GitLab used for?

A Container Registry in GitLab is specifically designed to store Docker images. This functionality is crucial for developers who utilize containers to deploy their applications, as it allows them to store, share, and manage containerized applications efficiently. By using GitLab's integrated Container Registry, teams can easily access their Docker images directly from within their GitLab projects, facilitating seamless deployment processes through CI/CD pipelines.

Moreover, the Container Registry supports image versioning, enabling users to manage different versions of their containers, which is essential for maintaining and rolling back deployments when necessary. This feature enhances the overall DevOps workflow by integrating software development and operations into one cohesive environment where images can be built, tested, and deployed all within the same platform.

The other options refer to different functionalities that are not related to container image management. Managing user roles pertains to permissions and access control within the GitLab environment, hosting static files relates to serving web content or assets, and managing version control refers to tracking changes in source code, all of which fall outside the scope of what a Container Registry offers.