AZ-800 Administering Windows Server Hybrid Core Infrastructure Exam

Implement Share and NTFS Permissions with Azure AD Authentication

Windows Server file shares in a hybrid Azure environment need both share-level permissions and NTFS permissions to stay secure. Share-level permissions control who can access the share over the network, while NTFS permissions manage what users and groups can do with files and folders on the server. Together, they create a two-layered approach that helps prevent unauthorized access or changes.

To assign permissions effectively, start by setting up share-level permissions for the file share itself. You can:

• Specify users or groups and grant them read, change, or full control at the share level.
• Use Azure Active Directory (Azure AD) to authenticate users, which simplifies management by relying on central identities.
• Apply the principle of least privilege so that each account gets only the access it needs.

Next, configure NTFS permissions on the folders and files within the share. NTFS settings let you:

• Control actions like read, write, modify, or delete at a more detailed level.
• Combine permissions from multiple groups to give people the exact access they require.
• Inherit permissions down folder trees to keep management simple and consistent.

Integrating Azure AD authentication adds an extra layer of security. By enabling identity-based authentication with AES-256 Kerberos ticket encryption, you reduce reliance on storage account keys. Don’t forget to turn on the Secure transfer required option for your storage account so that all data moves over encrypted channels (HTTPS).

Finally, use access-based enumeration (ABE) and auditing to keep your file shares clean and monitored. ABE ensures that users see only the files and folders they’re allowed to access, cutting down on confusion and security risks. Auditing helps you track who did what and when, giving you insights if something goes wrong. For best results:

• Periodically review and update permissions.
• Store critical keys in Azure Key Vault.
• Enforce TLS 1.2 or higher for all connections.
• Monitor activity with tools like Microsoft Defender for Storage.

Conclusion

Securing Windows Server file shares in Azure hinges on carefully combining share-level permissions, NTFS permissions, and Azure AD authentication. By assigning the right access at both the network and file-system layers, you create a strong defense against unauthorized use. Adding access-based enumeration and auditing helps you keep track of what users can see and do, while best practices like key management and encrypted transfers round out your security strategy. With these steps, your file shares will stay both accessible to the right people and protected from the wrong ones.