What’s New in Azure Networking: A Cloud Architect’s Perspective
Introduction
Cloud computing is rapidly becoming the standard for many organizations, with Azure being one of the leading cloud computing platforms. As organizations move to the cloud, the need for a secure and efficient networking infrastructure is paramount. In this article, we will take a look at some of the recent updates to Azure networking, from a cloud architect’s point of view.Azure Networking Services
Azure provides several services that enable network connectivity and traffic management. These services include: * Virtual Network (VNet)
* Azure Firewall
* Azure Load Balancer
* Azure Application Gateway
* Azure Traffic Manager
Virtual Network (VNet)
Virtual Network (VNet) is a private cloud network that is isolated from other networks in Azure. It enables users to securely connect to other networks and resources within the same VNet. It also allows users to create virtual private networks (VPNs) to securely connect to other networks outside Azure.Azure Firewall
Azure Firewall is a managed cloud-based service that provides application-level, network-level, and user-level protection against malicious traffic. It is designed to protect applications and resources from malicious traffic and threats. It can also be used to monitor and control traffic to and from a VNet.Azure Load Balancer
Azure Load Balancer is a service that distributes incoming traffic across multiple instances of an application or service. It can also be used to ensure high availability of applications and services.Azure Application Gateway
Azure Application Gateway is a web traffic manager that provides layer 7 load balancing, URL routing, and application-level traffic management. It enables users to control the flow of web traffic to their applications.Azure Traffic Manager
Azure Traffic Manager is a DNS-based service that enables users to achieve greater scalability and availability of applications and services. It provides traffic routing capabilities that can be used to direct client requests to the most appropriate endpoint.Recent Updates to Azure Networking
Microsoft has recently released several new features and updates to Azure Networking. These updates include: * Azure Private Link
* Azure Firewall Manager
* Azure Network Watcher
* Azure Network Adapter
* VPN Gateway
Azure Private Link
Azure Private Link is a service that enables users to securely access Azure services from their own private networks. It provides a secure and private connection to Azure services, such as Storage and SQL, from within a user’s VNet.Azure Firewall Manager
Azure Firewall Manager is a service that helps users manage and monitor Azure Firewall deployments across multiple virtual networks or subscriptions. It enables users to centrally configure and manage firewalls across their organization.Azure Network Watcher
Azure Network Watcher is a service that helps users monitor and diagnose network performance. It provides tools to monitor network performance, diagnose and troubleshoot network issues, and detect security threats.Azure Network Adapter
Azure Network Adapter is a service that enables users to securely connect their on-premises networks to Azure VNets. It is designed to simplify the process of connecting on-premises networks to Azure.VPN Gateway
VPN Gateway is a service that enables users to securely connect their on-premises networks to Azure. It supports multiple connection types, including IPsec/IKE, SSTP, and Point-to-Site connections.Conclusion
Azure networking provides a secure, reliable, and scalable solution for organizations looking to move to the cloud. Microsoft has recently released several new features and updates to Azure networking, including Azure Private Link, Azure Firewall Manager, Azure Network Watcher, Azure Network Adapter, and VPN Gateway. These updates make Azure an even more attractive option for organizations looking to move to the cloud.As a cloud architect, it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in cloud computing and Azure. By doing so, you can ensure that you are providing your clients with the best possible solution for their needs.
References:
Wired for Hybrid – Episode 3 – What’s New in Azure Networking – February 2023 Edition
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1. Azure Networking
2. Hybrid Networking
3. Network Security
