Azure ExpressRoute: Private Connections to Azure

Introduction to ExpressRoute

Azure ExpressRoute extends your on-premises networks into the Microsoft cloud over a private connection provided by a connectivity provider. This connection offers lower latencies, higher throughput, and increased reliability compared to typical internet connections.

With ExpressRoute, you can establish connections to Microsoft cloud services, such as Azure and Microsoft 365. This service is ideal for organizations that need dedicated, high-performance, and reliable connectivity to the cloud.

Key Benefits of ExpressRoute

• Increased Reliability: Dedicated circuits offer predictable performance and reduced packet loss.
• Faster Throughput: Higher bandwidth options are available, up to 100 Gbps.
• Lower Latency: Optimized routing paths reduce latency to Microsoft services.
• Enhanced Security: Traffic travels over a private connection, bypassing the public internet.
• Simplified Hybrid Cloud: Seamlessly integrate your on-premises infrastructure with Azure.

ExpressRoute Connectivity Models

ExpressRoute offers several connectivity models, allowing you to choose the best fit for your organization's needs:

1. Cloud Exchange Co-location

Connect to an ExpressRoute Exchange partner within a co-location facility. This model is quick to set up and offers easy peering with multiple cloud providers.

2. Direct Connection

Establish a direct physical connection from your premises or data center to a Microsoft peering location. This model offers the highest level of control and potentially the lowest latency.

3. Partner Connection

Work with an ExpressRoute partner to provision a Layer 2 or Layer 3 connection from your location to Microsoft's network. This is a popular choice for many organizations.

ExpressRoute Features

Global Reach

ExpressRoute is available in numerous locations worldwide, allowing you to connect to Azure from virtually anywhere.

Redundancy

ExpressRoute circuits can be configured with primary and secondary paths for high availability, ensuring continuous connectivity.

Bandwidth Options

Choose from various bandwidths, from 50 Mbps to 100 Gbps, to match your performance requirements.

Getting Started with ExpressRoute

1. Choose a Connectivity Provider

Select an ExpressRoute partner that offers services in your region.

2. Order an ExpressRoute Circuit

Work with your chosen partner to order an ExpressRoute circuit with your desired bandwidth and configuration.

3. Configure Your Network

Set up your on-premises network and virtual network in Azure to utilize the ExpressRoute connection. This involves configuring routing and peering settings.

Configuration Example (Conceptual)

Below is a conceptual representation of configuring an ExpressRoute circuit using Azure CLI. Actual commands and parameters will vary based on your setup.

# Create an ExpressRoute circuit
az network express-route create --name MyExpressRouteCircuit \
    --resource-group MyResourceGroup \
    --location westus \
    --provider <YourProviderName> \
    --peering-location <PeeringLocation> \
    --bandwidth 1000

# Create an ExpressRoute circuit peering
az network express-route peering create --circuit-name MyExpressRouteCircuit \
    --resource-group MyResourceGroup \
    --name MicrosoftPeering \
    --peering-type Microsoft \
    --peer-asn 65001 \
    --primary-peer-subnet 10.0.0.0/30 \
    --secondary-peer-subnet 10.0.0.4/30

# Link a Virtual Network to the ExpressRoute circuit
az network vpn-connection express-route create --name MyVnetConnection \
    --resource-group MyResourceGroup \
    --virtual-network MyVirtualNetwork \
    --express-route-circuit MyExpressRouteCircuit \
    --location westus
                

Learn More

For detailed technical specifications, deployment guides, and best practices, please refer to the official Azure ExpressRoute documentation.