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3.1.6. Implement Secure Data Solutions

First Principle: Implementing secure data solutions in Azure ensures that sensitive information is protected throughout its lifecycle (at rest, in transit, and during processing). This is fundamental for maintaining data confidentiality, integrity, and compliance, which is critical for trustworthy applications.

What It Is: "Data encryption" is a cornerstone of cloud security, protecting information from unauthorized access and ensuring compliance. In Azure, encryption must be applied to both data at rest and in transit.

Visual: "Data Encryption Lifecycle in Azure"
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Data at Rest:
  • "Concept": Encryption ensures that stored data remains confidential, even if storage media is compromised.
  • "Azure Storage Encryption": "Azure Storage automatically encrypts data at rest" for Blob, Queue, Table, and File storage. You can use "Microsoft-managed keys (default)" or "customer-managed keys (CMK)" stored in Azure Key Vault for greater control.
  • "Azure Disk Encryption (ADE)": Encrypts OS and data disks on Azure VMs using "BitLocker" (Windows) or "DM-Crypt" (Linux). Keys can be managed via Key Vault.
Data in Transit:
  • "Concept": Encrypting data as it moves between services, users, and applications prevents interception and tampering.
  • "HTTPS/TLS": Azure enforces "HTTPS/TLS (Transport Layer Security)" for secure communication between most Azure services and for client-to-service communication.
  • "VPN Gateway/ExpressRoute": For secure communication between on-premises networks and Azure.
Key Azure Services:
  • "Azure Key Vault": Centralized management for encryption keys, secrets, and certificates. Enables secure key storage and access control. Use "managed identities" for secure, passwordless access.
  • "Azure Storage Encryption": Provides automatic encryption for all data at rest, with options for Microsoft-managed or "customer-managed keys".
  • "Azure Disk Encryption (ADE)": Encrypts OS and data disks on Azure VMs.
Best Practices:
  • Always encrypt sensitive data, both at rest and in transit.
  • Use "managed identities" to access Key Vault, avoiding hardcoded credentials.
  • Implement network security ("private endpoints", firewalls) to restrict access to data services.
  • Regularly audit and monitor access to sensitive data and key management operations.

Scenario: You are developing an application that stores sensitive customer PII in Azure Blob Storage and processes it using an Azure Function. You need to ensure this data is encrypted both when it's stored and when the Function accesses it. You also need to manage the encryption keys securely.

Reflection Question: How does implementing encryption for data at rest ("Azure Storage Encryption", "Azure Disk Encryption") and in transit ("HTTPS/TLS"), managed by Azure Key Vault, fundamentally protect sensitive information throughout its lifecycle, ensuring data confidentiality, integrity, and compliance?