What is the difference between DataSet and DataReader?

• DataSet: It is a disconnected, in-memory data structure that can hold multiple tables.

It can also be updated and later written back to the database. You can move back

and forth between rows (using DataRow and DataColumn).

• DataReader: A DataReader is a forward-only, read-only data cursor. It provides

faster, streaming access to the data from the database but doesn’t allow

modifications. It maintains an open connection while reading data.

Example:

• DataSet: If you're working on a report with multiple tables, such as Customers,

Orders, and Products, you'd use a DataSet.

• DataReader: If you're fetching customer details one by one for a quick operation, a

DataReader would be used.