Microsoft Azure Security Technologies (AZ-500)

Which authentication method should database developers use to connect to an Azure SQL database while minimizing prompts?

1. Azure AD token

2. Azure Multi-Factor authentication

3. Active Directory integrated authentication

The correct answer is: Active Directory integrated authentication

Using Active Directory integrated authentication is ideal for database developers connecting to an Azure SQL database while minimizing prompts. This method allows applications to authenticate users using Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) credentials seamlessly, eliminating the need for users to enter their passwords multiple times during the connection process. It leverages the security features of Azure AD, ensuring that sensitive actions such as credential management are handled securely without frequent interruptions for re-authentication. Additionally, Active Directory integrated authentication does not require a password to be embedded in the application code, which enhances security by reducing the risk of credential exposure. By using this method, developers can streamline user experience, making it more efficient, while still maintaining robust security measures inherent to Azure AD. In contrast, while Azure AD token authentication also reduces prompts, it typically requires more setup and potentially leaves room for more user interaction compared to integrated authentication, especially when managing tokens. Azure Multi-Factor authentication, although enhancing security through additional verification steps, is designed specifically to enforce an extra layer of security and would inherently lead to more prompts, making it less suitable for minimizing user interactions during initial database access.