For an Azure Security Architecture role with a focus on networking in the public cloud and penetration testing, the most critical aspects to look for in a candidate are:
· Deep Knowledge of Azure Networking: The candidate should have a strong understanding of Azure-specific networking concepts, including Virtual Networks (VNets), Network Security Groups (NSGs), Azure Firewall, Application Gateway, load balancing, and connectivity options like VPNs and ExpressRoute.
· They should also be familiar with securing these components in a cloud-native environment.
Cloud Security Best Practices:
· The candidate should be well-versed in cloud security frameworks and standards, such as the CIS benchmarks, Zero Trust Architecture, and the Shared Responsibility Model.
· They should understand how to secure identity and access management (IAM), storage, databases, and applications running in Azure.
Penetration Testing Skills:
· Expertise in conducting penetration testing specifically in cloud environments is key.
· The candidate should be able to identify, exploit, and remediate vulnerabilities within Azure services, using tools like Azure Security Center, Microsoft Defender for Cloud, and third-party tools like Burp Suite or Metasploit.
Azure Security Certifications:
· Look for certifications like Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), which demonstrate both security and cloud-specific knowledge.
Experience with Threat Detection and Response:
· The candidate should know how to configure and manage threat detection, logging, and monitoring solutions like Azure Sentinel and Azure Monitor, to detect and respond to security incidents within the cloud.
Automation and Scripting:
· Experience in automating security controls and network configurations using Azure Resource Manager (ARM) templates, PowerShell, and scripting languages (e.g., Python) is beneficial, especially for maintaining scalable and repeatable security practices.
Compliance and Governance:
· Familiarity with regulatory frameworks like GDPR, HIPAA, and PCI DSS, and how they apply to cloud environments, will be important for ensuring the cloud architecture aligns with legal and compliance requirements.
