Azure Device Provisioning Service
Azure Device Provisioning Service (DPS) is a managed cloud service in Microsoft Azure that enables zero-touch, just-in-time provisioning of IoT devices to Azure IoT Hub. It automates the process of registering and configuring devices securely at scale, without requiring manual intervention. DPS supports various attestation mechanisms like X.509 certificates, TPMs, and symmetric keys to ensure secure device identity and connectivity.
Developers should use Azure DPS when building IoT solutions that require automated, secure onboarding of large numbers of devices, such as in industrial automation, smart cities, or connected vehicles. It is essential for scenarios where devices need to be provisioned dynamically to the nearest or most appropriate IoT Hub instance for load balancing or geographic distribution, reducing operational overhead and enhancing scalability.