Azure ExpressRoute Documentation

High-performance private connections to Microsoft Azure

What is Azure ExpressRoute?

Azure ExpressRoute allows you to create private connections between Azure datacenters and infrastructure that's either on-premises or in a colocation environment. ExpressRoute connections don't go over the public Internet, and offer lower latencies, higher speeds, more reliability, and increased security than typical Internet connections.

Key Benefits:

  • Increased Reliability: ExpressRoute offers a dedicated path with built-in redundancy.
  • Higher Bandwidth: Access higher bandwidth options than what's typically available over the public internet.
  • Reduced Latency: Predictable performance and lower latency for your critical applications.
  • Enhanced Security: Data does not traverse the public internet, reducing exposure to threats.
  • Optimized Performance: Better performance for services like Office 365 and Dynamics 365.
Azure ExpressRoute Topology Diagram

How ExpressRoute Works

ExpressRoute utilizes a network of global providers and partners to extend your network to Microsoft Azure. You can choose to connect via a network service provider, an exchange provider, or a direct connection.

Connection Models:

  • Cloud Exchange Co-location: Connect to an ExpressRoute partner's co-location facility and peer with Microsoft through their infrastructure. This is often the quickest way to get started.
  • Any-to-Any Network Provider: Use a network service provider that can connect your on-premises network to Azure over their existing MPLS or IP network.
  • Direct Cloud Provider: Connect directly to Microsoft's network at an ExpressRoute peering location. This model typically offers the highest bandwidth and lowest latency.

ExpressRoute Circuits

An ExpressRoute circuit is the logical connection between your on-premises network and Microsoft's network. You provision these circuits and associate them with your Azure Virtual Network(s).

Circuit SKUs:

ExpressRoute offers different pricing tiers (SKUs) that determine the monthly data allowance and potentially the available bandwidth. Common SKUs include:

  • Standard: Offers a higher monthly data allowance.
  • Premium: Includes all Standard features plus global connectivity across Azure regions and a larger data allowance.
  • Local: Provides the lowest latency to Azure regions and is billed based on port speed.

Provisioning a Circuit:

You can provision an ExpressRoute circuit through the Azure portal, Azure CLI, or PowerShell. This typically involves:

  1. Choosing a provider and a location.
  2. Specifying the desired bandwidth.
  3. Requesting a service key from Microsoft.
  4. Providing this key to your network provider for circuit activation.
Important Note: Azure ExpressRoute is designed for scenarios where you need predictable and reliable connectivity. For simpler VPN connectivity over the public internet, consider using Azure VPN Gateway.

Next Steps

Explore the following resources to learn more: