What is Azure Container Registry?
Azure Container Registry (ACR) is a managed Docker registry for storing and managing container images. The service supports Docker images, Helm charts, and OCI artifacts. ACR integrates seamlessly with Azure Kubernetes Service, Container Apps, and Azure DevOps for automated build pipelines.
Core Features
- Private registry with Azure AD authentication
- Geo-replication for global deployments (Premium tier)
- Vulnerability scanning with Microsoft Defender for Containers
- ACR Tasks for automated image builds in the cloud
- Content Trust for signed images
Typical Use Cases
DevOps teams store application images for Kubernetes deployments. Multi-region applications use geo-replication for fast image pulls. Security teams scan all images for vulnerabilities before production deployment.
Benefits
- Native integration with AKS, Container Apps, and Azure DevOps
- Enterprise security with Azure AD and Private Endpoints
- Geo-replication for low latency on global deployments
- Automated builds without custom CI infrastructure
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Basic, Standard, and Premium tier?
Basic offers 10 GB storage and basic features. Standard increases storage and throughput. Premium provides geo-replication, Private Endpoints, and Content Trust for signed images. The choice depends on security requirements and deployment regions.
How does vulnerability scanning work in ACR?
Microsoft Defender for Containers automatically scans all images on push and regularly at rest. Vulnerabilities are displayed with severity rating and remediation recommendations. Integration is available in Premium tier.
Can I build images automatically in ACR?
Yes, ACR Tasks enables automated image builds directly in Azure. You can trigger builds on Git commits, base image updates, or on schedule. This replaces custom build servers for container images.
How do I secure my container registry?
Use Private Endpoints for network isolation, Azure AD with RBAC for access control, and Content Trust for signed images. In Premium tier, you can additionally configure firewall rules and VNet integration.
Integration with innFactory
As a Microsoft Solutions Partner, innFactory supports you with Azure Container Registry: CI/CD pipeline setup, security configuration, and multi-registry strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Basic, Standard, and Premium tier?
Basic offers 10 GB storage and basic features. Standard increases storage and throughput. Premium provides geo-replication, Private Endpoints, and Content Trust for signed images. The choice depends on security requirements and deployment regions.
How does vulnerability scanning work in ACR?
Microsoft Defender for Containers automatically scans all images on push and regularly at rest. Vulnerabilities are displayed with severity rating and remediation recommendations. Integration is available in Premium tier.
Can I build images automatically in ACR?
Yes, ACR Tasks enables automated image builds directly in Azure. You can trigger builds on Git commits, base image updates, or on schedule. This replaces custom build servers for container images.
How do I secure my container registry?
Use Private Endpoints for network isolation, Azure AD with RBAC for access control, and Content Trust for signed images. In Premium tier, you can additionally configure firewall rules and VNet integration.
