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What is DataTable in ADO.NET and how is it used?
Updated Apr 22, 2026
Short answer
DataTable is an in-memory table that stores rows and columns of data, allowing you to manipulate data without maintaining a database connection.
Deep explanation
- What is DataTable:
- A core component of disconnected architecture in ADO.NET
- Represents a single table of relational data in memory
- Key Features:
- Supports rows, columns, constraints, and relations
- Can be filled using
SqlDataAdapter - Allows CRUD operations without database connection
- Why Use It:
- Ideal for UI binding (e.g., GridView)
- Useful for offline data processing
- Comparison:
DataTable→ in-memory, editableSqlDataReader→ forward-only, read-only
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