Entity Framework Core (EF Core) is a widely used Object-Relational Mapping (ORM) framework that enables .NET applications to interact with databases using C# objects. However, excessive database queries can lead to performance bottlenecks, making caching a vital optimization strategy.
Caching in EF Core
EF Core supports two levels of caching:
- First-Level Caching: This is enabled by default and stores query results within the same DbContext instance, reducing redundant queries. However, this cache is cleared when the DbContext instance is disposed.
- Second-Level Caching: This extends caching across multiple DbContext instances by storing frequently accessed data in a shared cache, significantly reducing database calls and improving performance, especially in distributed systems.
Benefits of Caching with EF Core
Integrating caching into EF Core applications provides several advantages:
- Faster Data Retrieval – Cached data ensures quicker access to frequently used records.
- Improved Scalability – Reduces database load and supports high-traffic applications.
- Efficient Query Execution – Avoids repetitive database queries, optimizing performance.
Understanding Reference Data
Reference data includes information that remains stable for longer time periods but still requires periodic updates, such as product catalogs, country lists, and configuration settings. Since it is accessed frequently but modified less often, caching reference data significantly improves performance and reduces unnecessary database queries.
For optimal performance, reference data should be cached as complete datasets rather than individual records. This ensures that LINQ queries run efficiently against the cache, providing accurate results without needing database access.
Understanding Reference Data Caching in EF Core
NCache seamlessly integrates with EF Core to optimize reference data caching. Two key methods are LoadIntoCache and FromCacheOnly.
- LoadIntoCache
The LoadIntoCache method should be used to load entire datasets (e.g., all products) into the cache at once. This ensures that applications can later run queries on the cached dataset without requiring further database access.
Example:
- FromCacheOnly
After loading the dataset into the cache using LoadIntoCache, you should use the FromCacheOnly method to query data directly from the cache. This prevents unnecessary database queries and ensures fast data retrieval.
Example:
Implementing Reference Data Caching
To use NCache for reference data caching in EF Core applications, follow these steps:
Implementing Reference Data Caching
To use NCache for reference data caching in EF Core applications, follow these steps:
- Step 1: Install the NCache EF Core Provider
- Step 2: Configure NCache in Your Application
Modify your DbContext to enable caching:
Conclusion
By leveraging NCache’s LoadIntoCache and FromCacheOnly methods, EF Core applications can efficiently manage reference data, reducing database load and improving performance. Clearly, implementing these caching strategies ensures faster data retrieval and enhances application scalability.
For more detailed information, refer to the NCache documentation on EF Core caching:
