A multi-core processor is a single computing component that contains two or more independent processing units, known as cores. Each core can execute its own tasks simultaneously, allowing for better performance and efficiency compared to single-core processors. This design helps computers handle multiple applications or processes at the same time without slowing down. Multi-core technology is commonly found in devices like smartphones, laptops, and servers. By distributing workloads across multiple cores, these processors can improve speed and responsiveness, making them ideal for tasks such as gaming, video editing, and running complex software applications.