How can you optimize the performance of ADO.NET applications?

Short answer: Performance can be optimized by: Using DataReader for large result sets. Using parameterized queries to avoid SQL injection and improve performance. Enabling connection pooling to reduce the overhead of opening and closing database connections. Using asynchronous operations to prevent blocking the main thread. Minimizing the number of round trips to the database.

Real-world example (ShopNest)

ShopNest’s reporting job still uses ADO.NET for a heavy SQL query where raw performance and stored procedures matter more than EF convenience.

Say this in the interview

1. Define — one clear sentence (the short answer above).
2. Example — relate it to a project like ShopNest or your real work.
3. Trade-off — when you would not use it.