Describe Azure ExpressRoute

In this lesson, you will learn about Azure ExpressRoute, its features, benefits, and connectivity models. Azure ExpressRoute lets you extend your on-premises networks into the Microsoft cloud over a private connection, enhancing reliability, speed, and security.

Introduction to Azure ExpressRoute

Azure ExpressRoute is a service that allows you to create private connections between Azure datacenters and your on-premises infrastructure or colocation facility. This private connection, called an ExpressRoute Circuit, provides enhanced performance and security compared to typical internet connections.

Features and Benefits of ExpressRoute

Azure ExpressRoute offers several key advantages for connecting your on-premises network to the Microsoft cloud:

Connectivity to Microsoft Cloud Services

ExpressRoute provides direct access to a wide range of Microsoft services, including:

Global Connectivity

With ExpressRoute Global Reach, you can link your on-premises locations worldwide by connecting their ExpressRoute circuits. For example, if you have offices in different continents, you can use Global Reach to enable secure communication between them without using the public internet.

Dynamic Routing

ExpressRoute employs BGP to facilitate dynamic routing between your on-premises network and Azure services. This protocol ensures efficient and reliable route exchange.

Built-in Redundancy

Each ExpressRoute connection uses redundant devices provided by the connectivity provider, ensuring high availability. Additionally, you can configure multiple circuits to further enhance reliability.

ExpressRoute Connectivity Models

Azure ExpressRoute supports several models for connecting your on-premises network to the Microsoft cloud:

CloudExchange Colocation

If your facility is co-located at a cloud exchange such as an ISP, you can request a virtual cross-connect to the Microsoft cloud. This setup simplifies the connection process and leverages the existing infrastructure of the cloud exchange.

Point-to-Point Ethernet Connection

This model involves using a point-to-point Ethernet connection to directly link your facility to the Microsoft cloud. It's a straightforward approach for secure, dedicated connectivity.

Any-to-Any Networks

With any-to-any connectivity, you can integrate your wide area network (WAN) with Azure. This integration allows seamless connections between your datacenters and branch offices, just as you would within your local network.

Directly from ExpressRoute Sites

ExpressRoute Direct offers the option to connect directly into Microsoft's global network at a peering location. This setup provides high-speed, active/active connectivity, supporting dual 100 Gbps or 10 Gbps connections.

Security Considerations

One of the primary benefits of ExpressRoute is that your data doesn't travel over the public internet. This isolation significantly reduces exposure to potential internet-based risks. However, some services, like DNS queries, certificate revocation list checking, and Azure Content Delivery Network requests, still use the public internet.

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