Apache Ignite is an open-source distributed database and computing platform designed to handle large-scale data processing. It provides in-memory data storage, which allows for faster data access and processing compared to traditional disk-based databases. Ignite supports various data models, including key-value, SQL, and compute grid capabilities, making it versatile for different applications. One of the key features of Apache Ignite is its ability to scale horizontally, meaning it can easily add more nodes to accommodate growing data needs. It also integrates with popular frameworks like Apache Spark and Hadoop, enhancing its functionality for big data analytics and real-time processing.