How does Azure address security for its databases?

Azure addresses security for its databases primarily by managing permissions at the database level. This means that access control is implemented through authentication and authorization mechanisms, ensuring that only specified users and applications can access the database and perform certain actions based on their assigned roles. This role-based access control helps in maintaining the principle of least privilege, reducing the risk of unauthorized data access.

Effective permission management allows database administrators to set fine-tuned policies that dictate which users can read, write, update, or delete data. This layer of security is crucial for protecting sensitive data, as it allows organizations to customize their security posture according to their specific requirements and compliance standards.

In contrast, requiring a public IP address for all connections, allowing public network access only, and relying exclusively on encryption do not comprehensively address the multifaceted nature of database security within Azure. Public network requirements can expose databases to potential attacks, while encryption is an important security measure but does not control access or permissions on its own. Therefore, managing permissions at the database level offers a more robust and effective approach to database security in Azure.