Azure ExpressRoute: Private and High-Performance Cloud Connectivity

Introduction

Azure ExpressRoute provides a dedicated, private connection from your on-premises infrastructure to Microsoft Azure. Unlike connections over the public internet, ExpressRoute offers predictable performance, higher speeds, lower latencies, and increased security. This makes it ideal for mission-critical workloads, large data transfers, and hybrid cloud scenarios.

Key Benefits of ExpressRoute

• Reliability: Dedicated circuits ensure consistent network performance and uptime.
• Speed: Supports connection speeds from 50 Mbps to 10 Gbps and beyond.
• Security: Traffic does not traverse the public internet, enhancing security.
• Low Latency: Optimized routing paths provide lower and more predictable latency.
• Global Reach: Connect to Azure regions worldwide through a global network of partners.
• Bandwidth Options: Flexible bandwidth tiers to meet diverse needs.
• Traffic Shaping: Control and optimize network traffic flow.

How ExpressRoute Works

ExpressRoute uses network connectivity providers that have a physical presence in Microsoft's network co-location facilities. You provision an ExpressRoute circuit through one of these partners, which establishes a direct, private connection between your network and Azure. This connection can then be used to send traffic to Microsoft cloud services, including Azure and Microsoft 365.

Connectivity Models

ExpressRoute offers three primary connectivity models:

• Cloud Exchange Co-location: Connect directly to ExpressRoute via a Microsoft Azure cloud exchange partner. This is the most common model, offering a wide choice of providers and locations.
• Service Provider Co-location: Connect to ExpressRoute through a network provider that has a co-location facility within a Microsoft co-location facility.
• Any-to-Any (IP VPN) Network: Connect to ExpressRoute through a Layer 3 provider that offers VPN services.

Circuit Provisioning

Circuit provisioning involves several steps:

1. Choose a Provider: Select an ExpressRoute partner based on your geographical location and service needs.
2. Order a Circuit: Order an ExpressRoute circuit from your chosen provider, specifying the desired speed and location.
3. Configure Your Network: Set up your on-premises routers and establish BGP peering with Microsoft's edge routers.
4. Activate the Circuit: Once the physical connection is established and configured, the ExpressRoute circuit becomes active in Azure.

Partner Ecosystem

Microsoft partners with numerous global and regional network providers to offer ExpressRoute services. These partners provide the physical connectivity and often additional services like network management and traffic optimization.

Explore the ExpressRoute locations and partners page for a comprehensive list.

Management and Monitoring

Once provisioned, ExpressRoute circuits can be managed and monitored through the Azure portal. Key monitoring metrics include bandwidth utilization, packet loss, and latency. You can also configure ExpressRoute QoS to prioritize critical traffic.

Key management tasks:

• Viewing circuit status and configuration.
• Monitoring performance metrics.
• Managing authorization keys for peering services.
• Modifying circuit bandwidth (if supported by your provider).

Getting Started

To get started with Azure ExpressRoute:

1. Review the prerequisites.
2. Identify and contact an ExpressRoute partner.
3. Order your ExpressRoute circuit.
4. Configure your network and Azure resources.
5. Monitor your connection.

For detailed configuration steps and best practices, refer to the official Azure ExpressRoute documentation.