Description: Ado.NET is a set of classes that expose data access services for the .NET Framework. This framework allows developers to interact with various data sources, such as SQL Server databases, Oracle, and other database management systems. Ado.NET is based on an object-oriented programming model, making it easier to manipulate data in applications built on the .NET ecosystem. One of its most notable features is the ability to work with disconnected data, meaning that data can be retrieved from a database, manipulated in memory, and then sent back to the database without needing to maintain a constant connection. This improves the efficiency and performance of applications, especially in environments where connectivity may be intermittent. Ado.NET also includes components like DataSet, DataTable, and DataAdapter, which allow developers to effectively manage and manipulate data. In summary, Ado.NET is a fundamental tool for developing applications that require data access, providing a robust and flexible interface for interacting with various data sources.
History: Ado.NET was introduced by Microsoft in 2002 as part of the .NET Framework 1.0. Its development focused on providing more efficient and flexible data access compared to earlier technologies like ADO (ActiveX Data Objects). Over time, Ado.NET has evolved to include support for new technologies and design patterns, such as Entity Framework, which allows for a more object-oriented approach to data access.
Uses: Ado.NET is primarily used in desktop and web applications developed in the .NET environment to access and manipulate data in databases. It is common in enterprise applications that require efficient management of large volumes of data, as well as in applications that need to perform CRUD (Create, Read, Update, Delete) operations on databases. It is also used in the creation of web services that require data access.
Examples: A practical example of Ado.NET is an inventory management application that uses a DataSet to load product data from a SQL Server database, allows users to update product information, and then saves the changes back to the database using a DataAdapter. Another example is a web application that uses Ado.NET to authenticate users by storing their credentials in a database and validating access through SQL queries.
