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 Database first vs Code first 

In this article, we will discuss two approaches in the entity framework for creating a database 
we will discuss the pros, cons, and use cases of each one 


    Database-First


what is database-first?

simply this approach means starting with the existing database and using entity framework to generate
entity classes based on the database 

what are the pros of using database-first approach?

1-Minimum Errors:
  •   because the entity classes are generated from the database schema, there's less chance of introducing errors through typos or inconsistencies between your code and the database.
 2- Integration with Existing Systems
  • if you work with legacy systems or integrate with external databases, You can modify the existing database structure and generate the necessary Entity Framework components for seamless interaction.
3-visual design 
    • Entity Framework tools provide a visual designer that allows you to graphically modify the database schema

    what are the cons of using  database-first approach?

    1-less control over code
    • The generated code from the database won't follow your preferred coding standards or patterns.

    2-limited customization
    • Customizing the generated classes can be difficult and might require partial classes.

    3-database dependency
    • because you depend on database structure, you cannot apply some flexible practices like agile development practices 

    when we use database-first?

  • When you already have an existing database.
  • When the database schema is stable and unlikely to change frequently.

    • Code-First

    what is code-first?

    in this approach, you start by writing C# or VB.NET classes that define your data model. Entity Framework then generates the database schema based on these classes.

    what are the pros of using code-first approach?

    1-full control of code 
    • full control over the code, allowing for clean, maintainable, and testable code.

    2-flexibility 
    • it is to change the database schema if the model classes change during development.

    3-agile development
    • this approach is more suitable for agile 

    what are the cons of using code-first approach?

    1-Pre Setup
    • Requires setting up and configuring model classes and the DbContext.

    2-Learning Curve
    • You  need to study more if you are new to EF code first 

    3-Potential for Errors:

    if you change the database or model before the code it will lead to differential errors

    when we use a code-first?

    • When starting a new project where the database schema is expected to change frequently.
    • When following an agile development process that involves continuous integration and delivery.

    At the end 

    Both database-First and Code First have their own advantages and are suited to different scenarios. The choice between the two depends on your project requirements, existing infrastructure, and development practices

    These are links for how to apply db-first and code-first 


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