SQL NOLOCK with C# and Entity Framework Core (EFCore)

In Entity Framework Core, there is no direct equivalent to the NOLOCK hint in SQL. The NOLOCK hint is used in SQL Server to allow a SELECT statement to read a table without acquiring a shared lock, and it can be used to improve query performance in certain scenarios.

However, in EF Core, you can achieve a similar effect by using the IsolationLevel option when starting a new database transaction. Here’s an example:

using (var context = new YourDbContext())
{
    using (var transaction = context.Database.BeginTransaction(System.Data.IsolationLevel.ReadUncommitted))
    {
        // Perform your queries or updates here

        transaction.Commit();
    }
}

In this example, ReadUncommitted is used as the isolation level, which is similar to the behavior of NOLOCK. It allows reading uncommitted changes from other transactions, which can improve performance but comes with the risk of reading data that might be rolled back later.

Please note that using ReadUncommitted or similar isolation levels should be done with caution, as it can lead to reading inconsistent or dirty data. Be sure to understand the implications and risks associated with using such isolation levels in your specific use case.

Always carefully consider the trade-offs and potential issues before adjusting isolation levels, and test thoroughly to ensure that the chosen approach meets your application’s requirements.