Introduction to Azure SQL Database Security
Securing your data in Azure SQL Database is paramount. Azure SQL Database offers a robust set of security features that protect your data from unauthorized access and malicious attacks. This documentation covers the key security aspects, including network security, authentication, authorization, data encryption, threat detection, and compliance.
Understanding and implementing these features will help you maintain a strong security posture for your mission-critical applications.
Network Security
Control access to your Azure SQL Database at the network level. Key features include:
- Firewall Rules: Define IP address ranges that are allowed to connect to your server.
- Virtual Network Service Endpoints: Secure your Azure SQL Database by restricting access to a virtual network.
- Private Link: Provide private connectivity from your virtual network to Azure SQL Database, eliminating public internet exposure.
For detailed configuration, refer to the official Azure documentation on network security for Azure SQL Database.
Authentication and Authorization
Azure SQL Database supports various methods for authenticating users and applications, and for managing their permissions.
Authentication Methods:
- SQL Authentication: Using a username and password specific to SQL Server.
- Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) Authentication: Integrate with Azure AD for centralized identity management, enabling single sign-on (SSO).
Authorization:
Once authenticated, users are authorized based on their assigned roles and permissions. Use database roles and granular permissions to enforce the principle of least privilege.
Explore more about authentication and authorization in Azure SQL Database.
Data Protection
Protect your sensitive data at rest and in transit.
- Transparent Data Encryption (TDE): Encrypts data files and transaction logs at rest.
- Always Encrypted: Protects sensitive data (like credit card numbers) stored in database tables from unauthorized access by privileged users.
- Dynamic Data Masking: Masks sensitive data in result sets to prevent non-privileged users from viewing it.
- SSL/TLS Encryption: Ensures secure data transmission between your application and the database.
Threat Detection and Monitoring
Proactively identify and respond to potential threats and suspicious activities.
- Azure Defender for SQL: Provides advanced threat protection capabilities, including vulnerability assessments and anomalous detection.
- Auditing: Track database events to understand data access patterns and identify potential breaches.
- SQL Server Audit: Configure detailed auditing of database activities.
Learn more about Azure Defender for SQL and its features.
Compliance and Governance
Meet regulatory requirements and maintain compliance standards.
- Compliance Certifications: Azure SQL Database adheres to numerous international and industry-specific compliance standards.
- Data Governance: Implement policies and controls for managing data throughout its lifecycle.
- Resource Locks: Prevent accidental deletion or modification of critical Azure resources.
Security Best Practices
Follow these recommended practices to enhance your Azure SQL Database security:
- Use Azure AD authentication for improved security and manageability.
- Apply the principle of least privilege for all users and applications.
- Enable TDE and Always Encrypted for sensitive data.
- Configure firewall rules and virtual network endpoints to limit access.
- Regularly review audit logs and alerts from Azure Defender for SQL.
- Keep your database software up to date.
- Perform regular vulnerability assessments.
For a comprehensive list, consult the Azure SQL Database security best practices guide.