What does configuring a firewall and virtual network do for Azure resources?

Configuring a firewall and virtual network for Azure resources specifically focuses on enhancing security by restricting access to authorized users only. This means that only users or systems that have been explicitly granted permission can interact with the resources within the Azure environment, thereby protecting sensitive data and maintaining compliance with regulatory requirements.

The firewall acts as a barrier to block unauthorized access attempts, while the virtual network establishes a private network that can further segment and control traffic. As a result, this dual-layer approach not only safeguards resources but also mitigates risks associated with potential cyber threats.

While performance improvements and user authentication features are important aspects of cloud infrastructure, they are not the primary functions of firewalls and virtual networks. Therefore, the emphasis is squarely on security and access control.