Azure ExpressRoute Direct

Azure ExpressRoute Direct provides a direct connection from your premises to Microsoft's global network. This service offers higher bandwidth, lower latency, and enhanced reliability for your critical enterprise workloads.

Overview

ExpressRoute Direct allows you to connect directly to an Azure ExpressRoute Point of Presence (PoP) location. Instead of connecting through a network service provider, you establish a physical cross-connection from your equipment to the Microsoft router at the ExpressRoute Direct facility.

Key Features and Benefits

  • High Bandwidth: Up to 100 Gbps per port, with options for redundant circuits.
  • Low Latency: Direct physical connection minimizes network hops and reduces latency.
  • Enhanced Reliability: Dedicated circuits with redundant paths ensure business continuity.
  • Predictable Performance: Dedicated bandwidth provides consistent and predictable network performance.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: Can be more cost-effective for high-bandwidth requirements compared to traditional MPLS or VPN solutions over time.
  • Global Reach: Connect to Azure regions worldwide through Microsoft's extensive network.

When to Use ExpressRoute Direct

ExpressRoute Direct is ideal for:

  • Organizations with significant bandwidth requirements.
  • Applications that are sensitive to latency, such as high-frequency trading or real-time data processing.
  • Scenarios requiring the highest levels of network reliability and availability.
  • Direct peering requirements with Microsoft services.

Prerequisites

Before you can set up ExpressRoute Direct, ensure you have:

  • Access to an ExpressRoute Direct enabled colocation facility.
  • Physical network equipment that supports the desired link speeds.
  • A plan for circuit provisioning with Microsoft.

Getting Started

The process for setting up ExpressRoute Direct involves several steps:

  1. Identify a supported ExpressRoute Direct location: Choose a location near your data center that is equipped with ExpressRoute Direct ports.
  2. Order circuits: Work with Microsoft to order your ExpressRoute Direct circuits. This involves specifying the speed, port type (e.g., 10 Gbps or 100 Gbps), and the desired ExpressRoute location.
  3. Physical cabling: Arrange for the physical cabling to be run from your equipment to the Microsoft demarcation point at the colocation facility.
  4. Configure your network: Once the physical connection is established, configure your routers and network devices. This typically involves BGP peering with Microsoft's routers.
  5. Configure ExpressRoute circuits in Azure: Create an ExpressRoute circuit resource in your Azure subscription and link it to your physical connection.

Example Configuration Snippet (Conceptual)

Below is a conceptual example of how BGP peering might be configured:


# Example BGP configuration on your router
router bgp 65001
 neighbor 10.0.0.1 remote-as 12076
  description Peer to Microsoft ASN
  address-family ipv4 unicast
   route-map IN route-map OUT
  !
 exit-address-family
!

Key Considerations

  • Cost: ExpressRoute Direct has associated port fees, data transfer charges, and colocation costs.
  • Cross-connects: You are responsible for the physical cross-connects within the colocation facility.
  • Technical Expertise: Requires strong network engineering expertise for setup and management.

Note: ExpressRoute Direct is a premium service designed for enterprise-grade connectivity. For simpler connectivity needs, consider standard ExpressRoute or Azure VPN Gateway.

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