Docker image optimization and security scanning

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Optimized Docker images reduce build time, storage, and attack surface. Alpine-based images start at 5MB versus 100MB+ for Debian. Multi-stage builds separate build tools from runtime—final image contains only production artifacts. Layer ordering matters: copy dependency files first, then source code, maximizing cache hits. Use COPY --from=builder to extract built artifacts. RUN instructions should be combined with && to reduce layers. .dockerignore excludes node_modules, .git, and test files. Pin exact package versions for reproducibility. Run containers as non-root with USER directive. Use docker scout or trivy for vulnerability scanning. HEALTHCHECK enables container health monitoring. Image size directly impacts deployment speed and cold start time.