Connecting to Microsoft Azure ExpressRoute
Using your regional’s infrastructure in conjunction with the Internet2 Network, you can reach cloud resources, including Azure ExpressRoute The robust regional and national networks allow access to Azure ExpressRoute in Ashburn, VA, Chicago, IL, Dallas, TX, and San Jose, CA. Depending on your preference, you can implement either a Layer 2 or Layer 3 solution. Additionally, you will need to subscribe to the cloud provider’s service.
Layer 2 Azure ExpressRoute Connection
The layer 2 option consists of layer 2 VLANs connecting the campus routers to routers inside the Microsoft Azure cloud. The campus and Microsoft exchange routes via BGP.
Layer 3 Azure ExpressRoute Connection
With the layer 3 option, Internet2 creates an L3VPN unique for each campus. The L3VPN BGP peers with Microsoft Azure and the campus, in turn, BGP peers with the L3VPN. The regional network, if any, passes the VLANs through the campus and Internet2.
Additional Layer 3 Connectivity
Another advantage of the Layer 3 option is the possibility of connecting to other Microsoft regions and other cloud service providers. In this case, the Internet2 L3VPN peers with the additional sites/providers and the campus simply continue to peer with the L3VPN over the existing VLANs.
Build an Azure ExpressRoute Connection
Visit the Insight Console to build a connection.