To best manage security and centrally handle credentials across multiple agents, you should add a connection to the Azure AI Search resource at the Azure AI Foundry project level.
Why This Works
Central Hub: The project acts as the single security perimeter for all your agents.
Credential Masking: Agents inherit access without hardcoding secrets, API keys, or connection strings in their code.
Identity Management: It allows you to leverage Microsoft Entra ID (formerly Azure AD) for role- based access control (RBAC).
How to Implement It
1. Navigate to your Azure AI Foundry portal.
2. Select your specific project from the dashboard.
3. Open the "Management Center" or "Project settings" tab.
4. Click on "Connected resources" or "Connections".
5. Add the Azure AI Search resource.
6. Choose Entra ID (managed identity) over API keys for maximum security.
Reference:
https://partner.microsoft.com/en-us/blog/article/azure-updates-december-2025