Which Azure service offers advanced threat protection for databases?

Azure Defender for SQL is specifically designed to provide advanced threat protection for SQL databases hosted in Azure. It enhances the security of SQL databases by continuously monitoring and analyzing the database for potential vulnerabilities and threats. This service uses adaptive machine learning algorithms to detect suspicious activities and provide alerts about potential attacks, such as SQL injection, anomalous access patterns, and sensitive data exposure.

Furthermore, Azure Defender for SQL includes features like vulnerability assessment, which helps identify and remediate potential security risks within SQL Server databases. The integration with Azure Security Center allows for a centralized view of the database security posture, making it easier for security teams to manage and respond to threats effectively.

In contrast, Azure Security Center is a broader security management system that provides a unified view across various Azure services but does not exclusively focus on databases. Azure Active Directory is primarily responsible for identity and access management, and Azure Monitor is focused on the performance and health monitoring of applications and resources rather than directly addressing threats to databases. Therefore, Azure Defender for SQL is uniquely suited for advanced threat protection in database environments.