A multi-core processor is a single computing component that contains two or more independent processing units, known as cores. Each core can perform tasks simultaneously, allowing for better performance and efficiency compared to single-core processors. This design helps computers run multiple applications at once 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 handle complex calculations and multitasking more effectively, making them essential for modern computing needs.