Effective artifact repository management is essential for optimizing CI/CD pipelines by ensuring security, versioning, and dependency management, which enhances software delivery performance and consistency. Tools like Apache Maven, Bazel, and Docker Image Repositories are crucial in streamlining these processes, while Harness CI/CD integrates with such tools to automate and secure artifact management. An artifact repository securely stores artifacts, such as container images and software packages, which are distinct from source code and serve as the backbone of the software delivery process. Key considerations for artifact repositories include centralized versus distributed models, versioning support, permissions, auditability, and scanning for security vulnerabilities. Artifact management tools like Maven, Bazel, and Docker Image Repositories cater to different aspects of artifact management, emphasizing security, automation, and efficiency in modern DevOps practices.