Azure SQL Managed Instance is a fully managed database service that provides comprehensive network security features to protect your data. It operates within a virtual network (VNet), which is fundamental to its security architecture.
VNet Integration is the cornerstone of Managed Instance network…Azure SQL Managed Instance is a fully managed database service that provides comprehensive network security features to protect your data. It operates within a virtual network (VNet), which is fundamental to its security architecture.
VNet Integration is the cornerstone of Managed Instance networking. The instance is deployed within a dedicated subnet in your Azure VNet, providing complete isolation from public internet traffic by default. This subnet must be delegated to the Microsoft.Sql/managedInstances service and requires specific configurations including Network Security Groups (NSGs) and route tables.
Network Security Groups control inbound and outbound traffic to the Managed Instance subnet. Azure automatically creates mandatory rules for management traffic, health probes, and internal Azure services. You can add custom rules to restrict access from specific IP ranges, other subnets, or virtual networks while ensuring required management ports remain accessible.
Private Endpoints enable secure connectivity from other VNets or on-premises networks through Azure Private Link. This ensures traffic flows through the Microsoft backbone network rather than traversing the public internet, enhancing security posture.
Service Endpoints and VNet peering allow secure communication between Managed Instance and other Azure services or resources across different VNets. This enables complex enterprise architectures while maintaining network isolation.
Public Endpoint is an optional feature that can be enabled for scenarios requiring external connectivity. When enabled, it should be protected using firewall rules and NSG configurations to limit access to trusted IP addresses only.
TLS Encryption ensures all data in transit is encrypted using Transport Layer Security, protecting against eavesdropping and man-in-the-middle attacks.
Azure Defender for SQL provides advanced threat protection, vulnerability assessments, and security alerts for suspicious database activities.
Proper network configuration requires careful planning of address spaces, route tables with appropriate User Defined Routes, and NSG rules that balance security requirements with operational needs for Azure management services.
Network Security for Azure SQL Managed Instance
Why Network Security for Azure SQL Managed Instance is Important
Azure SQL Managed Instance is a fully managed PaaS database engine that provides near 100% compatibility with on-premises SQL Server. Securing network access to this service is critical because databases often contain sensitive business data, customer information, and intellectual property. Proper network security prevents unauthorized access, data breaches, and compliance violations. For the AZ-500 exam, understanding these concepts demonstrates your ability to protect critical data assets in Azure.
What is Network Security for Azure SQL Managed Instance?
Network security for SQL Managed Instance encompasses the configurations and controls that restrict and manage network traffic to and from your managed database instances. Key components include:
• Virtual Network Integration - SQL Managed Instance is deployed inside a dedicated subnet within an Azure Virtual Network (VNet) • Network Security Groups (NSGs) - Filter inbound and outbound traffic at the subnet level • Service Endpoints - Provide secure connectivity to Azure services • Private Endpoints - Enable private connectivity using Azure Private Link • Public Endpoint - Optional configuration for external access with specific security controls
How Network Security Works
Subnet Requirements: SQL Managed Instance requires a dedicated subnet with a minimum of 16 IP addresses. The subnet must be delegated to the Microsoft.Sql/managedInstances service. This delegation ensures proper network configuration and management.
NSG Configuration: Required inbound rules include ports 9000, 9003, 1438, 1440, and 1452 for management traffic. Port 1433 is used for TDS (Tabular Data Stream) client connections. The NSG must allow Azure Load Balancer and management plane traffic.
Public Endpoint: When enabled, the public endpoint uses port 3342. It should be secured using NSG rules to restrict source IP addresses. This feature is disabled by default and must be explicitly enabled.
Private Endpoint: Provides a private IP address within your VNet for accessing SQL Managed Instance. Traffic remains on the Microsoft backbone network, enhancing security.
How to Answer Exam Questions
When facing questions about SQL Managed Instance network security:
1. Identify the connectivity scenario - Determine whether the question involves on-premises connectivity, cross-VNet access, or public internet access
2. Recognize subnet requirements - Remember that SQL Managed Instance needs a dedicated, delegated subnet
3. Understand port requirements - Port 1433 for internal VNet connections, port 3342 for public endpoint access
4. Evaluate security controls - Consider NSGs, firewalls, and private endpoints as layers of defense
Exam Tips: Answering Questions on Network Security for Azure SQL Managed Instance
• Remember the dedicated subnet requirement - SQL Managed Instance cannot share a subnet with other resources
• Know the default state - Public endpoint is disabled by default; private connectivity through VNet is the primary access method
• Understand port numbers - 1433 for VNet connections, 3342 for public endpoint
• Recognize minimum subnet size - /28 CIDR is the minimum (16 addresses), but /27 or larger is recommended
• Identify management traffic requirements - Azure management services need specific ports open in NSGs
• Private Link vs Service Endpoints - Private endpoints provide a private IP within your VNet, while service endpoints route traffic over the Azure backbone
• Look for security best practices - The most secure option typically involves private endpoints combined with restrictive NSG rules