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Data Lake
A data lake is a centralized storage system that holds large volumes of raw data in its native format. It can store structured data from databases, semi-structured data like logs and JSON files, and unstructured data such as images or videos. Unlike traditional databases, a data lake does not require data to be cleaned or transformed before storage. This flexibility allows organizations to collect and retain all types of data at scale. Users can later process, analyze, or move the data as needed for business intelligence, machine learning, or reporting. Data lakes support real-time and batch processing, making them suitable for large-scale analytics. When managed properly, they enable faster access to diverse data, reduce silos, and lower storage costs.