# Azure Bastion Overview Azure Bastion is a fully managed Platform as a Service (PaaS) that enables secure remote access to an Azure ]]an Azure [[Virtual Machine]] through private IP addresses. It facilitates [[Remote Desktop Protocol]] and [[SSH]] connectivity over TLS, removing the necessity for [[Public IP]] addresses on the resources.  # Key Features Azure Bastion provides several key features that enhance security and connectivity within an Azure Cloud Data Center: - **Secure Remote Access:** Enables secure management of Azure virtual machines via the Azure portal or through native RDP/SSH clients. - **Elimination of Public IP Addresses:** No requirement for public IP addresses on virtual machines, reducing exposure to potential threats. - **TLS Connectivity:** Ensures all RDP and SSH connections utilize TLS protocol, enhancing data security during transmission. - **Centralized Management:** Allows centralized control for virtual machine access directly from the Azure portal. # Importance Azure Bastion is essential for maintaining high security levels in Azure Cloud Data Centers by preventing exposure to the public internet. - **Reduces Attack Surface:** By eliminating public IP addresses, Bastion decreases the potential for unauthorized access or attacks on virtual machines. - **Simplifies Secure Management:** Provides a streamlined and secure method for managing virtual machines without needing to configure VPNs or manage firewalls. - **Compliance and Security Best Practices:** Helps meet compliance requirements and adhere to best practices in network security by ensuring remote connections are through encrypted channels. # Use Cases Azure Bastion serves various use cases for Azure Cloud Data Centers by providing a secure and efficient way to manage infrastructure: - **Remote Administration:** IT administrators can manage virtual machines securely over encrypted sessions without the need for a VPN. - **Development and Testing:** Developers can connect to virtual machines directly within secure development and testing environments. - **Data Center Environments:** Ideal for enterprises managing large-scale environments with strict security requirements, as it eliminates the complexity of setting up isolated access points for remote systems. Azure Bastion is a crucial service for organizations looking to enhance their cloud security posture while simplifying the remote management of their virtual networks in Azure. ## Resources [Connect to virtual machines through the Azure portal by using Azure Bastion - Training | Microsoft Learn](https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/training/modules/connect-vm-with-azure-bastion/)