Entity Framework is an open-source object-relational mapping (ORM) framework for .NET applications. It allows developers to work with databases using .NET objects, eliminating the need for most of the data-access code that developers usually need to write. This simplifies database interactions and enhances productivity. With Entity Framework, developers can perform CRUD (Create, Read, Update, Delete) operations using LINQ (Language Integrated Query), making data manipulation more intuitive. It supports various database engines, including SQL Server and SQLite, and provides features like change tracking and lazy loading, which help manage data efficiently.