Ent is a statically typed entity framework for Go that models database structures as a graph of nodes and edges. It functions as a code generation engine that transforms schema definitions into type-safe database clients, query builders, and migration scripts. By representing data as interconnected entities, the framework enables intuitive traversal of complex relationships and ensures that database interactions remain consistent with the application model at compile time.
The framework distinguishes itself through its graph-based approach to data modeling and its reliance on compile-time code generation to enforce type safety. It automates the synchronization of database schemas with application models, providing tools to manage versioned migrations and validate structural integrity before changes are applied. Developers can customize the generation pipeline using templates to tailor the output to specific infrastructure requirements.
Beyond core modeling and generation, the project provides a comprehensive suite of tools for managing the data lifecycle. This includes automated API development for GraphQL, cursor-based pagination for large datasets, and built-in mechanisms for auditing data changes. The system also optimizes data retrieval by automating the loading of related entities, reducing the need for manual query management.
