Data virtualization is a technology that allows data to be accessed and managed without requiring detailed knowledge of the physical location, format, or structure of the data. It enhances protection by providing a unified layer for data access while enforcing security policies across diverse data sources. This approach ensures that sensitive information is securely accessed and shared, with consistent application of encryption, access controls, and auditing. Data virtualization helps organizations maintain data integrity, comply with regulatory requirements, and improve the efficiency of their data security strategies by simplifying data management and reducing the need for data replication.