How can access to services published on ArcGIS Server be controlled?

Access to services published on ArcGIS Server can be controlled effectively by setting access permissions and roles at the service level. This method allows administrators to define who can access specific services based on user roles, ensuring that only authorized users can interact with the data or functionalities offered by those services.

By managing permissions at this level, you can ensure a tailored approach to security. For instance, certain users may be granted view-only access, while others might have rights to edit or analyze the data. This granular control over access levels is essential for maintaining data integrity and security in environments where sensitive information is handled.

Implementing firewalls at the network level or using a VPN provides broader network security measures but does not address service-specific access management. These methods protect the network as a whole rather than controlling individual service access. Additionally, limiting access to specific geographic areas does not align with user permissions set at the service level and does not adequately restrict access based on user roles. Therefore, the most effective way to control access specifically to services in ArcGIS Server is through the use of permissions and roles.