Azure / Documentation / Virtual network / ExpressRoute / Set up an ExpressRoute circuit

Set up an ExpressRoute circuit

This article explains how to create an ExpressRoute circuit using the Azure portal.

Note: ExpressRoute circuits are purchased through a supported network service provider. You can provision a circuit directly with a network service provider, or through the Azure portal. This article focuses on provisioning through the Azure portal.

Before you begin

You must have an active Azure subscription. If you don't have one, create a free account.
You need to work with a supported network service provider to connect to ExpressRoute.

Steps to set up an ExpressRoute circuit

1. Create an ExpressRoute circuit

Follow these steps to create a new ExpressRoute circuit in the Azure portal:

In the Azure portal, search for and select ExpressRoute circuits.
Click + Create.
On the Basics tab, configure the following settings:
- Subscription: Select your Azure subscription.
- Resource group: Select an existing resource group or create a new one.
- Circuit name: Enter a unique name for your circuit.
- Region: Select the Azure region where you want to deploy your circuit. This should be the same region as your connectivity provider's edge router if possible.
Click Next: Location >.

2. Select your connectivity provider and location

On the Location tab, configure the following settings:

Service provider: Select your network service provider from the dropdown list. If your provider is not listed, you may need to provision the circuit directly with them.
Bandwidth: Select the desired bandwidth for your circuit. Note that the available options depend on your selected service provider.
SKU: Choose between Standard or Premium. The Premium add-on offers additional features and broader connectivity.
Peering location: Select the physical location where you will connect to the ExpressRoute network. This must match the location provided by your connectivity provider.

Click Next: Configuration >.

3. Configure circuit properties

On the Configuration tab, you can optionally specify:

Allow classic operations: Enable this if you need to support classic deployment model resources.
Bandwidth (Mbps): This field may be pre-populated based on your previous selection. You can adjust it if needed, but it must be within the limits set by your provider and SKU.

Click Next: Tags >.

4. Add tags (optional)

On the Tags tab, you can add tags to categorize your ExpressRoute circuit for management purposes.

Click Next: Review + create >.

5. Review and create

Review the summary of your ExpressRoute circuit configuration. If everything is correct, click Create.

Tip: Once the circuit is provisioned, you will receive a service key. This service key is essential for your connectivity provider to activate the circuit.

Next steps

After your circuit is provisioned and activated by your provider, you can proceed with configuring peering and connecting your networks.

Key ExpressRoute Circuit Options
Option	Description
SKU	Standard or Premium. Premium offers enhanced features and global reach.
Bandwidth	The speed of your connection (e.g., 50 Mbps, 100 Mbps, 1 Gbps).
Peering Location	The physical location of the ExpressRoute interconnection point.
Service Provider	The network service provider facilitating the connection.

For more detailed information, refer to the official ExpressRoute documentation.