This term is shorthand for computer architecture, referring specifically to the instruction set architecture that a processor uses. It dictates how software must be compiled to run on the hardware. Systems administrators and developers use it to specify whether a binary or operating system image is meant for x86, ARM, or another processor design.
Heard on the job
Make sure you pull the correct container image for the server's arch, or it will just crash on boot.
Insider tip
When someone asks what the arch is, they are usually checking if a machine is ARM-based or standard x86_64 before deploying software.
Also heard as
- architecture