ExpressRoute connectivity models

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ExpressRoute allows you to create a connection between your on-premises network and the Azure cloud in four different ways, CloudExchange Co-location, Point-to-point Ethernet Connection, Any-to-any (IPVPN) Connection, and ExpressRoute Direct. Connectivity providers may offer more than one connectivity models. You can work with your connectivity provider to pick the model that works best for you.

ExpressRoute connectivity model diagram

Co-located at a cloud exchange

If you're co-located in a facility with a cloud exchange, you can request for virtual cross-connections to the Azure cloud through the co-location provider's Ethernet exchange. Co-location providers can offer either Layer 2 cross-connections, or managed Layer 3 cross-connections between your infrastructure in the co-location facility and the Azure cloud.

Point-to-point Ethernet connections

You can connect your on-premises datacenters or offices to the Azure cloud through point-to-point Ethernet links. Point-to-point Ethernet providers can offer Layer 2 connections, or managed Layer 3 connections between your site and the Azure cloud.

Any-to-any (IPVPN) networks

You can integrate your WAN with the Azure cloud. IPVPN providers (typically MPLS VPN) offer any-to-any connectivity between your branch offices and datacenters. The Azure cloud can be interconnected to your WAN to make it appear like any other branch office. WAN providers typically offer managed Layer 3 connectivity. ExpressRoute capabilities and features are all identical across all of the above connectivity models.

Direct from ExpressRoute sites

You can connect directly into the Azure global network at a peering location strategically distributed across the world. ExpressRoute Direct provides dual 100-Gbps or 10-Gbps connectivity that supports Active/Active connectivity at scale.

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