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Introduction
Azure security is a critical pillar in modern cloud infrastructure, encompassing tools like Microsoft Sentinel for XDR, Entra ID for identity management, and AI-driven threat detection. Uros Babic, a Microsoft Security MVP, has curated free educational content on these topics, offering hands-on guidance for professionals. This article distills key technical insights from his resources, providing actionable commands and configurations.
Learning Objectives
- Deploy Microsoft Sentinel for centralized threat detection.
- Harden Azure cloud environments using best practices.
- Leverage AI and data security tools for proactive defense.
1. Microsoft Sentinel Query for Threat Hunting
Command/KQL Query:
SecurityEvent | where EventID == 4625 // Failed logins | summarize FailedAttempts = count() by Account, TargetServer | sort by FailedAttempts desc
Step-by-Step Guide:
This Kusto Query Language (KQL) query detects brute-force attacks by counting failed login attempts. Use it in Sentinelās “Logs” tab to identify suspicious activity. Modify `TargetServer` to filter specific assets.
- Azure CLI: Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) in Entra ID
Command:
az ad user update --id [email protected] --force-change-password-next-login true
Guide:
Forces password reset and pairs with Azure MFA policies. Replace `[email protected]` with the target UPN. Combine with Conditional Access policies for granular control.
3. Cloud Hardening: Restrict Public Blob Access
Azure PowerShell:
Set-AzStorageAccount -ResourceGroupName "MyRG" -Name "MyStorage" -AllowBlobPublicAccess $false
Explanation:
Disables public access to Azure Blob Storage, mitigating data leakage risks. Audit existing containers with Get-AzStorageContainer.
4. AI Anomaly Detection in Sentinel
KQL Query:
AnomalyDetection_UserLogons | evaluate basket()
Use Case:
Identifies unusual login patterns (e.g., geographic anomalies) using Sentinelās built-in ML. Tune thresholds via `Analytics` > Rule templates.
5. Secure API Endpoints with Azure API Management
Azure CLI:
az apim create --name "SecureAPIM" --resource-group "MyRG" --publisher-email "[email protected]" --sku-name "Consumption"
Steps:
1. Deploy API Management for centralized security.
- Apply rate limiting and OAuth 2.0 policies via the Azure Portal.
6. Vulnerability Mitigation: Patch Management via Azure Automation
PowerShell:
Register-AzAutomationPatchConfiguration -ResourceGroup "MyRG" -AutomationAccountName "MyAutomation" -Windows -AzureVMResourceGroup "VMsRG"
Guide:
Automates OS patching for Azure VMs. Schedule monthly runs and exclude critical systems during peak hours.
7. Entra ID: Audit Risky Sign-Ins
KQL Query:
AuditLogs | where OperationName == "Risky sign-in detected" | project TimeGenerated, UserPrincipalName, RiskDetail
Analysis:
Monitors Entra IDās risk engine. Integrate with Sentinel for automated playbooks (e.g., block IPs via Azure Logic Apps).
What Undercode Say
- Key Takeaway 1: Sentinelās KQL and AI capabilities reduce mean time to detect (MTTD) by 70% when tuned properly.
- Key Takeaway 2: Cloud misconfigurations (e.g., public storage) remain the top attack vectorāautomate hardening.
Analysis:
Azureās security tools are robust but require proactive configuration. Babicās focus on Sentinel and Entra ID aligns with industry shifts toward XDR and identity-centric defense. Expect AI-driven automation (e.g., auto-remediating anomalies) to dominate future Azure updates.
Explore Further:
IT/Security Reporter URL:
Reported By: Uros Babic – Hackers Feeds
Extra Hub: Undercode MoN
Basic Verification: Pass ā
