When learning Azure security, I realized that many important security controls are already available in the platform but are easy to overlook during deployment and configuration.
To better understand Azure security, I reviewed several identity, networking, secrets management, monitoring, and security posture settings within my lab environment. Throughout this process, I identified a number of commonly overlooked configurations that could increase security risk if left unchecked.
In this article, I share 10 important Azure security settings that I explored, why they matter, how I verified them, and recommendations for improving overall security posture.
1. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Not Enforced
Mistake
One of the first things I checked was whether multi-factor authentication was enforced for user accounts. It is easy to assume that strong passwords alone provide sufficient protection.
Risk
If a user's password is compromised through phishing, password reuse, or credential theft, an attacker may be able to access Azure resources without additional verification.
How I Verified
- Open Azure Portal.
- Navigate to Microsoft Entra ID.
- Select Users.
- Open a user account.
- Click Authentication Methods.
Fix
Enable MFA for all users, especially privileged accounts, and regularly review authentication methods.
Screenshot
3. Secrets Stored Outside Key Vault
Mistake
Application credentials and connection strings are sometimes stored directly in configuration files because it is convenient during development.
Risk
Secrets stored in files or repositories may be exposed through source control, backups, or unauthorized access.
How I Verified
- Create an Azure Key Vault.
- Open Key Vault.
- Navigate to Secrets.
- Click Generate/Import.
- Create a test secret.
- Confirm the secret is stored centrally within Key Vault.
Fix
Store passwords, API keys, and connection strings in Azure Key Vault.
Screenshots
4. Key Vault Accessible from All Networks
Mistake
When I first created a Key Vault, I focused on storing secrets and almost overlooked the networking configuration.
Risk
If credentials are compromised, attackers may attempt access from any location.
How I Verified
- Open Azure Portal.
- Navigate to Key Vault.
- Select the Key Vault.
- Select Settings -> Networking.
- Review Public Access settings.
Fix
Restrict Key Vault access using selected networks or private endpoints.
Screenshot
6. Storage Account Public Network Access Enabled
Mistake
Storage accounts may allow access from any network unless networking restrictions are configured.
Risk
Exposed storage services increase the attack surface and may allow unauthorized access attempts.
How I Verified
- Open Azure Portal.
- Navigate to Storage Accounts.
- Select a Storage Account.
- Open Settings -> Configuration.
- Review Public Network Access settings.
Fix
Restrict access to selected networks or use Private Endpoints where possible.
Screenshot
9. Missing Diagnostic Settings
Mistake
Resources can function normally even when diagnostic logging is not configured.
Risk
Troubleshooting and security investigations become much harder without historical logs.
How I Verified
I reviewed Diagnostic Settings for Azure resources and checked whether logs were being sent to a monitoring destination.
Fix
Configure diagnostic settings and send logs to Log Analytics, Storage Accounts, or Event Hub.
Screenshot
Final Thoughts
One of the biggest lessons I learned while reviewing Azure security settings is that many security risks originate from small configuration decisions rather than sophisticated attacks.
Identity management, permissions, networking, secrets management, monitoring, and security posture all play an important role in protecting cloud environments. Regularly reviewing these settings can help identify gaps early and improve overall security posture.
Security is not a one-time task. It is an ongoing process of verification, monitoring, and continuous improvement.
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