Abstract
The concept of Big Data refers to massive, complex, and rapidly growing datasets that cannot be handled using traditional database systems. Big Data provides organizations with the ability to extract meaningful insights, improve decision-making, and drive innovation. This paper explores the definition of Big Data, its characteristics, tools and technologies, applications across sectors, challenges, and future directions. The study concludes that Big Data, coupled with artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and cloud computing, will revolutionize industries and society.