A data lake is a centralized repository that allows for the storage of vast amounts of raw data in its native format until it is needed for analysis. Unlike traditional databases, data lakes can store structured, semi-structured, and unstructured data, such as documents, images, and log files. This flexibility enables organizations to collect and manage large volumes of diverse data types from multiple sources. Data lakes support advanced analytics, machine learning, and big data processing, providing a scalable solution for extracting valuable insights and driving data-driven decision-making.