Azure SQL Database provides multiple authentication options to secure access to databases. Here are some examples of Azure SQL Database authentication options:
- Azure Active Directory authentication: Azure AD authentication is a managed identity service that allows users to sign in to Azure SQL Database with their Azure AD credentials. This provides a secure way to access databases without the need for passwords or SQL Server authentication. Users can use their Azure AD account to authenticate to Azure SQL Database using Azure AD authentication.
Example: An organization that has already set up Azure AD can use Azure AD authentication to manage user access to Azure SQL Database. By enabling Azure AD authentication, users can log in to Azure SQL Database using their Azure AD credentials, and administrators can control access to databases based on user roles and permissions in Azure AD.
- SQL Server authentication: SQL Server authentication is a traditional authentication method that uses a username and password to access databases. Users can create and manage their own SQL Server login credentials to authenticate to Azure SQL Database.
Example: An application developer who needs to access an Azure SQL Database can use SQL Server authentication to log in with a username and password. The developer can create a SQL Server login account in Azure SQL Database and then use that account to authenticate to the database from their application.
- Azure Key Vault authentication: Azure Key Vault is a service that stores and manages cryptographic keys, certificates, and secrets. Azure SQL Database can use Azure Key Vault to store and manage database connection strings, allowing applications to securely access databases without exposing sensitive information.
Example: A financial institution that needs to protect sensitive data in Azure SQL Database can use Azure Key Vault to store and manage connection strings. The institution can configure Azure SQL Database to use Azure Key Vault to store connection strings, and then use managed identities or service principals to access the connection strings securely. This ensures that only authorized users and services can access sensitive data in the database.
These are just a few examples of Azure SQL Database authentication options that can be used to secure access to databases. Depending on the requirements of your application, you can choose the authentication option that best fits your needs.
