How does the implementation of Entity Framework affect the scalability and maintainability of a multi-layered application?

The implementation of Entity Framework in a multi-layered application can positively impact both scalability and maintainability. By abstracting away the details of data access, Entity Framework simplifies data access logic, making it easier to maintain and understand. Additionally, Entity Framework includes features such as query optimization and caching, which can enhance scalability by improving the performance of database queries. However, it's important to note that Entity Framework may introduce performance bottlenecks, especially when dealing with complex object-relational mapping scenarios, which could affect the scalability of the application negatively. Overall, Entity Framework contributes to the scalability and maintainability of a multi-layered application by providing a standardized approach to data access and offering tools for optimizing performance.