Entity Framework is an object-relational mapping (ORM) framework in C# that provides a way to interact with relational databases using .NET objects. It allows developers to work with database tables and their relationships using C# classes and objects, eliminating the need to write SQL queries manually.
Some key features of Entity Framework include:
1. Entity Data Model: Entity Framework uses an entity data model to represent the database schema and its entities. This model can be created using either the Entity Data Model Wizard or Code First approach.
2. LINQ Support: Entity Framework supports Language Integrated Query (LINQ), allowing developers to write type-safe queries using C# syntax. LINQ queries are translated into SQL and executed against the underlying database.
3. CRUD Operations: Entity Framework provides a set of methods for creating, reading, updating, and deleting data (CRUD operations) in the database. These operations can be performed on individual entities or on collections of entities.
4. Object Tracking: Entity Framework tracks changes made to entities and can automatically generate SQL statements to perform the necessary database operations. This helps developers to avoid writing boilerplate code for handling database updates.
5. Lazy Loading: Entity Framework supports lazy loading, which means that related objects are loaded from the database only when they are accessed. This can help improve performance by minimizing the number of queries executed against the database.
6. Database Migrations: Entity Framework supports database migrations, which allow developers to easily update the database schema as the application evolves. Migrations can be used to create, modify, and delete database tables, columns, and relationships.
Overall, Entity Framework simplifies the process of working with databases in C#, providing a higher level of abstraction and reducing the amount of boilerplate code required. It is widely used in enterprise applications and supports various database providers, including SQL Server, MySQL, Oracle, and PostgreSQL.