Short Answer
To manage access to an Azure blob container, you can use Azure Active Directory (AD), storage keys, or shared access signatures (SAS), each offering different control levels. Azure AD provides role-based access control for granular permissions, while storage keys provide full access and SAS offers limited access with time constraints, making it safer for sharing resources.
Step 1: Understand Authorization Methods
To manage access to an Azure blob container, you can use three main methods: Azure Active Directory, storage keys, and shared access signatures (SAS). Each method has its own level of control and flexibility, serving different use cases based on your security needs.
Step 2: Azure Active Directory (Azure AD)
This method provides role-based access control (RBAC), allowing you to assign permissions to users or groups with granularity. Using Azure AD is beneficial because it integrates with existing company security practices, allowing you to manage user access through a centralized identity system.
Step 3: Storage Keys and Shared Access Signatures
The storage key grants full access to all services under the storage account, making it powerful but risky if mismanaged. In contrast, a shared access signature (SAS) allows you to grant limited access to specified resources for a defined time. It’s ideal for situations where you need to share access without exposing full control.