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

Want to integrate DigitalOcean and Microsoft Azure? This guide provides a detailed walkthrough on how to create a seamless connection between your DigitalOcean VPC and Azure using Megaport. You'll learn to establish a high-bandwidth, low-latency connection.

Why Connect DigitalOcean and Azure?

Connecting your DigitalOcean VPC to Microsoft Azure unlocks several advantages:

• Enhanced Performance: Achieve high-speed, low-latency network connections ideal for demanding applications.
• Simplified Multi-Cloud Management: Streamline operations across different cloud environments.
• Improved Data Transfer: Enable fast and secure data replication, backup, and disaster recovery.

This solution is ideal for organizations requiring robust, reliable connectivity between their hybrid or multi-cloud infrastructure.

What is a Megaport Cloud Router (MCR)?

A Megaport Cloud Router (MCR) is a virtual router that lets you create and manage connections between different cloud platforms and on-premise locations without needing physical hardware.

• Centralized Management: Simplify your network with a single, easy-to-use platform.
• Advanced Routing: Optimize your network for speed and efficiency.
• Enhanced Security: Protect your data with robust security features.

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure you have the following:

• A DigitalOcean account with a configured VPC.
• A Microsoft Azure account with an active subscription.
• A Megaport account with access to Megaport Cloud Router services.

Step 1: Create a Partner Attachment on DigitalOcean

This step creates a connection point within your DigitalOcean VPC for Megaport.

1. Log into your DigitalOcean account.

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

3. Click Create partner Attachment.

4. Select your Region and VPC.

5. Choose your desired bandwidth plan.

6. Configure Border Gateway Protocol (BGP) settings. The defaults work in most cases, but you can customize:

   • BGP authentication key
   • ASN
   • Local Router IP
   • Peer Router IP

7. Name your attachment and click Create partner Attachment.

8. Copy the generated Megaport Service Key. You'll need this in the next step.

Saving the BGP configuration is critical for ensuring seamless connection during the Megaport configuration stage.

Step 2: Create a Megaport Cloud Router (MCR)

Next, set up your MCR in Megaport to manage your cross-cloud connections.

1. Log in to your Megaport account.

2. Go to Services -> Create MCR.

3. Select a location close to both your DigitalOcean and Azure data centers.

4. Configure the MCR settings:

   • Rate Limit
   • MCR Name
   • Minimum Term (choose "No Minimum Term" for testing)
   • ASN (leave as default unless otherwise configured)

5. Deploy the MCR and note your MCR ID.

6. Finalize the order and set up billing details.

Step 3: Create a VXC on Megaport to DigitalOcean

This step establishes the virtual connection between your MCR and your DigitalOcean VPC.

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 it. Click Next.

4. Enter a Connection Name.

5. Select the Rate Limit (matching your bandwidth plan from Step 1).

6. Choose a Minimum Term.

7. Leave the Interface IP Address blank (optional).

8. Click Add BGP Connection:

   • Use the Local IP configured during DigitalOcean setup.
   • Enter BGP details from Step 1.
   • Use the BGP Password from Step 1.

9. Verify all information.

10. Click Next, then Add VXC.

11. Finalize the order.

A Virtual Cross Connection (VXC) is the virtual cable attaching your Megaport Cloud Router to DigitalOcean Partner Network Connect,

Step 4: Create a VXC on Megaport to Azure ExpressRoute

Now, create the connection from your MCR to Azure.

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.

For comprehensive setup information, see the official Megaport + Azure ExpressRoute PDF documentation.

Step 5: Verify Connectivity

Confirm that your connections are active and functioning correctly.

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

Successful connection is confirmed by green indicators across DigitalOcean, Megaport, and Azure.

Maximize Your Cloud Potential

By connecting DigitalOcean and Azure with Megaport, you've created a powerful and flexible cloud infrastructure. This setup allows you to leverage the strengths of each platform, optimizing performance and scalability for your applications.