Entity Framework Core: Advanced Query Optimization Techniques for Complex Scenarios in 2024

Entity Framework Core (EF Core) is a friend of every developer. However, as applications grow in complexity, developers often face performance challenges. This article is all about EF Core query optimization techniques, backed by benchmarks.

1. Understanding EF Core Query Execution

Before proceeding with optimization techniques, it’s important to understand how EF Core processes queries in an ASP.NET environment. This knowledge forms the foundation for effective optimization.

The Query Lifecycle

1. Query Construction

In this stage, we’re just defining what we want to retrieve. No database interaction has occurred yet.

public async Task<IActionResult> Index()
{
    var query = _context.Products
        .Where(p => p.Category == "Electronics")
        .OrderBy(p => p.Price);

    // Query is not executed yet
    var products = await query.ToListAsync();
    return View(products);
}