AWS Networking Fundamentals
Transit Networks
Direct Connect
AWS Direct Connect provides a private, high-bandwidth network link between your on-premises environment (data center, office, or colocation facility) and AWS. Unlike Internet-based VPNs over IPSec tunnels, Direct Connect offers dedicated 1 Gbps, 10 Gbps, or 100 Gbps connectivity, delivering consistent low latency, higher throughput, and enhanced security.
Key Components
Component | Description | Role |
---|---|---|
On-Premises Network | Corporate data center or office network with an edge router or firewall. | Terminates the Direct Connect link on your side. |
Direct Connect Location | AWS Partner or colocation facility where your customer router and AWS router meet. | Houses the cross-connect between you and AWS. |
AWS Direct Connect Router | AWS-owned endpoint at the Direct Connect location. | Provides the physical port you lease for the connection. |
Establishing a Connection
- Order a Port
Request a 1 Gbps, 10 Gbps, or 100 Gbps port in your chosen Direct Connect location. - Cross-Connect Provisioning
Work with the facility operator to install a cross-connect cable between your customer router and the AWS Direct Connect router. - BGP Session Setup
Configure Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) peering on both ends to exchange routes dynamically over the AWS global network.
Note
Ensure your on-premises edge device supports the desired port speed and BGP configuration.
Virtual Interfaces (VIFs)
After your physical link is active, segment traffic by creating virtual interfaces:
VIF Type | Destination | Use Case |
---|---|---|
Private VIF | Virtual Private Gateway attached to your VPC | Access private subnets and EC2 instances. |
Public VIF | AWS public endpoints (e.g., S3, DynamoDB) | Reach AWS public services over the AWS network. |
Each VIF leverages BGP to advertise and learn routes, ensuring efficient traffic flow.
Pricing Overview
With AWS Direct Connect, you incur two main charges:
Charge Type | Description |
---|---|
Port Hours | Hourly fee per provisioned port, regardless of data usage. |
Data Transfer Out | Standard AWS data transfer rates for outbound traffic. (Inbound is free.) |
Warning
Data transfer rates vary by AWS Region. Always review the AWS Direct Connect pricing page for the latest details.
Links and References
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