Connect DigitalOcean VPC to Azure: A Step-by-Step Guide Using Megaport

Want to connect your DigitalOcean VPC to Microsoft Azure for faster, more secure data transfer? This guide walks you through setting up a direct connection using Megaport Cloud Router (MCR). Learn how to build a seamless multi-cloud environment and optimize your network performance.

Why Connect DigitalOcean to Azure?

Many organizations benefit from a hybrid or multi-cloud approach. Connecting your DigitalOcean VPC to Azure enables:

• High-speed data transfer: Move large datasets between clouds quickly and efficiently.
• Low-latency connections: Improve application performance with minimal delays.
• Secure communication: Establish private, dedicated links, bypassing the public internet.

This method is especially useful for businesses leveraging the strengths of both platforms, such as using DigitalOcean for development and Azure for production workloads.

What is a Megaport Cloud Router (MCR)?

A Megaport Cloud Router (MCR) acts as your virtual router in the cloud, enabling simplified and efficient management of your cloud network connections.

• Centralized Management: Monitor and control your network from a single platform.
• Advanced Routing: Optimize traffic flow and reduce latency.
• Enhanced Security: Protect your cloud connections from unauthorized access.

Think of it as a central hub for all your cloud connections, providing the tools to manage them effectively.

Prerequisites

Before diving in, make sure you have the following:

• A DigitalOcean account with a configured VPC in a supported region.
• A Microsoft Azure account with an active subscription.
• A Megaport account with access to Megaport Cloud Router (MCR) services.

Step-by-Step: Connecting DigitalOcean to Azure

Step 1: Create a Partner Attachment on DigitalOcean

1. Log in to your DigitalOcean account.

2. Navigate to Networking -> Multi-cloud Integrations.

3. Click Create partner Attachment.

4. Select your desired Region and VPC.

5. Choose a bandwidth plan.

6. Configure Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) settings. While defaults often work, you may need to customize these settings:

   • BGP Authentication Key
   • ASN
   • Local Router IP
   • Peer Router IP

   Keep these details handy – you'll need them later! If you're unsure, leaving the settings as default is generally acceptable for initial setups.

7. Give your attachment a Name and click Create partner Attachment.

8. Copy the generated Megaport Service Key – this is crucial for the next steps!

Step 2: Create a Megaport Cloud Router (MCR)

1. Log in to your Megaport account.
2. Navigate to Services -> Create MCR.
3. Select a location near your DigitalOcean and Azure data centers.
4. Configure the MCR:
   • Rate Limit
   • MCR Name
   • Minimum Term (choose "No Minimum Term" for testing)
   • ASN (defaults to 133937)
5. Deploy the MCR and note the MCR ID.
6. Complete the order by setting up billing details.

Step 3: Create a VXC on Megaport to DigitalOcean

This step connects your DigitalOcean partner attachment to your Megaport Cloud Router.

1. In the Megaport portal, under your created MCR, select Add Connection.
2. Choose DigitalOcean.
3. Enter the Service Key from Step 1. Megaport will validate the key. Click Next.
4. Enter a clear Connection Name.
5. Select a Rate Limit, matching the bandwidth chosen in Step 1.
6. Choose a Minimum Term.
7. Leave the Interface IP Address blank (optional).
8. Click Add BGP Connection and:
   • Use the Local IP configured earlier.
   • Enter BGP details from Step 1.
   • Use the BGP Password from Step 1.
9. Verify all information is correct.
10. Click Next, then Add VXC.
11. Finalize the order to complete the VXC setup.

Step 4: Create a VXC on Megaport to Azure ExpressRoute

1. Log in to the Azure Portal.
2. Navigate to Create a Resource -> Networking -> ExpressRoute.
3. Enter a name for the ExpressRoute and select Megaport as the provider.
4. Complete the template and click Create.
5. After provisioning, copy the Service Key.
6. In the Megaport portal:
   • Click +Connection under your MCR.
   • Select Cloud -> Azure.
   • Paste the Service Key.
   • Complete the VXC configuration to link to Azure ExpressRoute.
   • Refer to this documentation for detailed Azure setup: Megaport + Azure ExpressRoute PDF.

Step 5: Verify Connectivity (DigitalOcean to Azure Connection)

1. In DigitalOcean, verify the Partner Attachment status.
2. In Megaport, ensure both VXCs are active and properly configured.
3. In Azure, check that the ExpressRoute link is up.
4. Test by pinging an Azure instance from a DigitalOcean Droplet to confirm the connection.

Green indicators across all platforms signal a successful DigitalOcean to Azure connection!

Troubleshooting Tips

• Double-check all Service Keys and BGP settings. Typos are common!
• Ensure that the bandwidth limits are consistent across all platforms.
• Consult the Megaport and Azure documentation for platform-specific troubleshooting steps.

FAQs

• What are the benefits of using the MCR? The MCR provides centralized management, advanced routing, enhanced security, real-time monitoring, and scalability for your cloud network connections.
• How do I create a Megaport Cloud Router (MCR)? See the official documentation on Configuring an MCR.
• How do I create a VXC on Megaport to DigitalOcean? Refer to this official documentation on Creating MCR connections on DigitalOcean Infrastructure.
• How do I create a VXC on Megaport to Azure ExpressRoute? See the Megaport + Azure ExpressRoute PDF.
• How do I verify connectivity? Check the Partner Attachment status in DigitalOcean, VXCs status in Megaport, and ExpressRoute link in Azure.

Conclusion

Connecting your DigitalOcean VPC to Azure via Megaport Cloud Router provides a powerful and efficient way to manage your multi-cloud infrastructure. By following these steps, you can establish a secure, low-latency connection that enhances the performance and reliability of your cloud-based applications. Embrace the power of interconnected clouds for a competitive edge.