ExpressRoute Direct is a service that can connect to Microsoft’s global network at peering locations around the world without needing to connect to other network providers. ExpressRoute Direct provides a redundant 100 Gbps connectivity, which supports active/active connectivity and scalability.

The following diagram shows a schematic view of how ExpressRoute Direct works: 

ExpressRoute Direct was built for customers who have very high bandwidth needs, as well as network providers who want to use the Microsoft global backbone and sea cables to extend their own network to new regions.