Azure ExpressRoute
Network access control software
Zero trust networking software
Network security software
Zero trust architecture software
- Features
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- Ease of management
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What is Azure ExpressRoute
Azure ExpressRoute is a Microsoft Azure service that provides private, dedicated network connectivity between on-premises environments (or colocation facilities) and Microsoft cloud services, bypassing the public internet. It is used by network and cloud infrastructure teams to extend enterprise networks into Azure and to support hybrid connectivity for workloads that require predictable routing and performance characteristics. ExpressRoute connects through connectivity providers and supports private peering to Azure virtual networks as well as Microsoft peering for select Microsoft services. It is typically implemented alongside identity, segmentation, and policy controls rather than serving as a complete zero trust access solution by itself.
Private hybrid cloud connectivity
ExpressRoute provides private connectivity to Azure over dedicated circuits rather than internet-based VPN tunnels. This can reduce exposure to internet routing variability and supports hybrid architectures where workloads span on-premises and Azure. It is commonly used for data center extension, regulated workloads, and large-scale cloud migrations. The service integrates with Azure networking constructs such as virtual networks and route tables.
Provider-based connectivity options
The service is delivered through a broad ecosystem of connectivity providers and colocation exchanges, enabling different procurement and deployment models. Organizations can choose bandwidth tiers and circuit configurations that align with their network design and operational constraints. This flexibility supports multi-site connectivity patterns and staged rollouts. It also allows separation of responsibilities between cloud teams and carrier/network providers.
Enterprise routing and resiliency features
ExpressRoute uses BGP for route exchange, which aligns with common enterprise WAN practices and supports controlled route advertisement. It supports redundant connectivity designs (for example, dual circuits and diverse paths) when implemented with appropriate provider and architecture choices. These patterns help organizations build higher-availability hybrid connectivity compared with single-tunnel approaches. It also supports multiple peering types to separate traffic destinations.
Not a full ZTNA solution
ExpressRoute primarily addresses network transport and private connectivity, not user-to-app access controls. It does not natively provide device posture checks, per-session access brokering, or application-level segmentation typically expected in zero trust network access products. Organizations generally need additional identity, endpoint, and policy enforcement components to implement zero trust access. As a result, it may not replace remote access or NAC tools on its own.
Higher cost and lead time
Dedicated circuits and provider involvement can introduce higher recurring costs than internet-based connectivity options. Provisioning often depends on carrier processes, colocation availability, and cross-connect work, which can extend deployment timelines. Ongoing operations may require coordination across multiple parties for troubleshooting and changes. This can be a barrier for smaller environments or short-lived projects.
Operational complexity in hybrid networks
Designing routing, segmentation, and failover across on-premises networks and Azure requires careful planning to avoid asymmetric routing and overlapping address spaces. Monitoring and troubleshooting span Azure networking, provider infrastructure, and on-premises devices, which can complicate incident response. Misconfiguration can lead to unintended reachability between network segments if not paired with strong network security controls. Teams may need specialized networking expertise to operate it reliably.
Plan & Pricing
Pricing model: Pay-as-you-go (port(s) + optional circuit fees) with two main data plans (Metered Data and Unlimited Data), plus ExpressRoute Direct port pricing and add‑ons.
Metered Data plan
- Inbound data transfer: free (included).
- Outbound data transfer: charged per GB (zone-based). See example outbound rates below.
- Fixed monthly port fee applies (varies by circuit bandwidth, SKU and region).
Unlimited Data plan
- Single fixed monthly port fee that includes all inbound and outbound data transfer charges.
- Port fee varies by port speed, SKU (Local/Standard/Premium) and region.
ExpressRoute Direct (dedicated ports)
- Monthly port-pair fees for direct connectivity (10 Gbps, 100 Gbps, 400 Gbps and Metro variants).
- For Premium circuits an additional premium-circuit monthly fee may apply.
- Outbound data transfer applies to Standard and Premium circuits (not to Local circuits).
Global Reach add-on
- Enables linking ExpressRoute circuits (add-on monthly fee varies by circuit bandwidth/region).
- Global Reach data transfer is charged per GB (zone-based).
ExpressRoute Traffic Collector / Gateway (examples)
- Some gateway/collector components are charged hourly and/or per-GB for processed data.
Example costs (published on Azure pricing page):
- Metered outbound data (by zone): Zone 1 = $0.025/GB; Zone 2 = $0.05/GB; Zone 3 = $0.14/GB; Zone 4 = $0.10/GB.
- Global Reach data transfer (by zone): Zone 1 = $0.02/GB; Zone 2 = $0.055/GB; Zone 3 = $0.112/GB.
- ExpressRoute Traffic Collector (example shown on pricing page): Zone 2 & Zone 3 = $0.8/hour and $0.2/GB (data processed).
Notes & important qualifiers:
- Many port/circuit monthly fees (local/standard/premium circuits and ExpressRoute Direct port-pair fees) are region- and SKU-dependent and are presented interactively on the Azure pricing page (you must select Zone/Region/Currency to display the numeric port fees). The pricing page also notes prices are estimates and that you can request a custom quote or contact Azure sales for pricing.
- Additional charges may apply from connectivity partners/service providers for the physical connection and cross-connects; those are not included in Microsoft’s ExpressRoute portal pricing and should be obtained from the provider.
Seller details
Microsoft Corporation
Redmond, Washington, United States
1975
Public
https://www.microsoft.com/
https://x.com/Microsoft
https://www.linkedin.com/company/microsoft/
