Figure 3.8: ExpressRoute network architecture
Connecting to on-premises datacenters from Azure Virtual Network (VNet) allows users to create a hybrid cloud environment that can provide more flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. This can be achieved through two methods: VPN Gateway and Azure ExpressRoute.
VPN Gateway allows users to establish a secure connection between Azure VNets and on-premises networks over the public internet. To set up a VPN Gateway, users can create a gateway subnet within the VNet and then create a VPN Gateway. They can also configure a local gateway to establish a connection between the on-premises network and the VPN Gateway. Once the VPN Gateway is set up, users can connect to the on-premises network from within the VNet.
Azure ExpressRoute, on the other hand, provides a private, dedicated connection between Azure VNets and on-premises networks, bypassing the public internet. This results in faster, more reliable, and more secure connectivity. To set up Azure ExpressRoute, users need to create a dedicated circuit from a connectivity provider, such as an Internet Service Provider (ISP) or a network service provider. Once the circuit is established, users can configure their VNet to use the ExpressRoute circuit as a gateway to the on-premises network.
Both VPN Gateway and Azure ExpressRoute provide secure connectivity between Azure VNets and on-premises networks. However, users need to consider factors such as bandwidth requirements, latency, and security when choosing between the two methods. VPN Gateway is more suitable for smaller workloads with lower bandwidth requirements, while Azure ExpressRoute is more suitable for larger workloads with higher bandwidth requirements that require faster and more secure connectivity.
Connecting to on-premises datacenters from Azure Virtual Network is essential for creating a hybrid cloud environment that provides more flexibility, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. Users can choose between VPN Gateway and Azure ExpressRoute to establish secure connectivity between Azure VNets and on-premises networks, based on their specific requirements.