In the context of Azure security, what is the primary benefit of using Microsoft Defender for SQL?

The primary benefit of using Microsoft Defender for SQL lies in its comprehensive auditing capabilities. This service provides in-depth insights into SQL database activities, helping organizations to identify suspicious or potentially harmful actions. By auditing database access and usage, organizations can detect unauthorized access attempts, validate compliance with regulatory standards, and ensure that best practices for data protection are being followed.

Furthermore, Microsoft Defender for SQL facilitates advanced threat protection by providing alerts and recommendations based on detected threats, ensuring that customers can respond promptly to security incidents. This capability is crucial for maintaining the integrity and security of sensitive data stored in SQL databases.

The other choices focus on different aspects of security that are not the primary focus of Microsoft Defender for SQL. For instance, while protection against DDoS attacks and enhanced network security are fundamental components of Azure's security offerings, they are not specific to SQL database management. Similarly, integration with application performance monitoring pertains more to performance optimization rather than directly improving database security.