Creating an ExpressRoute Circuit

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for creating an Azure ExpressRoute circuit using the Azure portal.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure you have the following:

  • An active Azure subscription.
  • Connectivity with an ExpressRoute partner or circuit provider.
  • Information from your connectivity provider, including your Provider SKU, bandwidth, and peering location.

Steps to Create an ExpressRoute Circuit

1. Sign in to the Azure Portal

Navigate to https://portal.azure.com/ and sign in with your Azure account credentials.

2. Navigate to ExpressRoute Circuits

In the Azure portal search bar, type "ExpressRoute circuits" and select it from the results.

3. Create a New ExpressRoute Circuit

Click the + Create button or + Add button to start the creation process.

4. Configure Basic Settings

On the "Basics" tab, fill in the following details:

  • Subscription: Select your Azure subscription.
  • Resource group: Create a new one or select an existing resource group.
  • Circuit name: Provide a unique and descriptive name for your circuit (e.g., MyExpressRouteCircuit).
  • Region: Select the Azure region where you want to create the circuit. This is typically the location closest to your network provider's edge location.

5. Configure Circuit Details

On the "Circuit Details" tab:

  • Provider: Select your ExpressRoute connectivity provider from the dropdown list.
  • SKU: Choose the appropriate SKU based on your needs. Common options include Standard and Premium.
  • Bandwidth: Select the desired bandwidth for your circuit from the available options provided by your provider.
  • Peering Location: Select the location where your physical connection with the provider terminates. This must match the location agreed upon with your provider.
  • Billing mode: Choose between Unlimited Data (flat monthly fee) or Metered Data (based on usage).

6. Configure Tags (Optional)

On the "Tags" tab, you can add tags to categorize your resources for better management.

7. Review and Create

Review all the configured settings. Once you are satisfied, click the Create button.

Important Note:

After the circuit is provisioned, you will need to obtain the Service Key from the Azure portal. This Service Key must be provided to your connectivity provider to activate the circuit.

Obtaining the Service Key

Once your ExpressRoute circuit is created and shows a status of "Provisioned", you can retrieve the Service Key:

  1. Navigate back to your ExpressRoute circuit resource in the Azure portal.
  2. In the "Overview" section, you will find the Service key.
  3. Copy this key and provide it to your connectivity provider.

Next Steps

After your connectivity provider has provisioned the circuit on their end using the Service Key, you will need to configure peering for your ExpressRoute circuit. Refer to the ExpressRoute Peering Configuration guide for detailed instructions.

For any issues or further assistance, please consult the Azure Support documentation or contact your connectivity provider.