Businesses move more of their work to the cloud every year. For example according to Synergy Research Group, companies spent about USD 330 billion on cloud infrastructure in 2024. This is also more than USD 60 billion in 2023. As cloud use grows, companies need a faster and more stable way to connect to cloud services. This is why direct connect is important. It gives companies a private connection to cloud platforms without using the public internet.
Direct connect is useful for companies that move large amounts of data, run important systems, or need very fast response time. For example, this includes hyperscalers, OTT providers, and telecom companies. In this guide, we explain what it is, how much it costs, and how companies can set it up.
What is direct connect?
A private network connection links a company’s office or data center directly to a cloud provider’s network. Unlike a normal internet connection, it does not use the public internet. Instead, it uses a dedicated fiber connection. Because of this, it makes the connection more stable, secure, and consistent. For instance, major cloud providers offer this service with different names, such as AWS Direct Connect, Azure ExpressRoute, and Google Cloud Interconnect.
Direct connect is helpful for companies that move a lot of data or run important systems. Because the traffic does not pass through the public internet, it avoids many common internet problems like slow speeds or unstable performance. As a result, this helps companies get lower delay, higher bandwidth, and a more reliable connection to cloud services.
It is not free, but it can help companies reduce network costs compared to using the public internet. In general, there are usually two main costs: port hours and data transfer fees. Port hours are the cost of keeping the connection port active. Data transfer fees apply to data that leaves the cloud. In many cases, data sent into the cloud is free, which helps reduce total costs.
How to set up a direct connect
Setting up direct connect takes several steps. Companies usually work with a cloud provider and a network infrastructure partner to build the connection.
Step 1: Choose a cloud provider
First, choose the cloud provider you want to use. Then check the nearest location where a private connection service is available.
Step 2: Choose the connection type
Next, decide if you want a dedicated connection or a hosted connection. This choice affects the cost and the speed of the connection.
Step 3: Work with a network provider
A network provider will install the fiber cable between your office or data center and the direct connect location. This physical link is very important for good performance.
Step 4: Set up virtual interfaces
After the cable is ready, you need to configure virtual interfaces (VIFs). These control how data traffic moves between your network and the cloud.
Step 5: Test and monitor the connection
Finally, test the connection to check speed and delay. Cloud providers also offer tools to monitor bandwidth and connection health.
The physical connection depends on the quality of the fiber network. Because of this, choosing the right network partner is very important. A provider that owns its own fiber network and covers many routes can give a more stable and reliable connection.
Your Next Step Toward Better Cloud Connectivity
Direct connect is a simple and cost-effective solution for companies that depend on the cloud. Instead of using the public internet, it creates a stable private connection directly to a cloud provider’s network. As cloud workloads and data continue to grow, this type of connection helps companies improve performance, security, and cost control.
The strength of a direct connect setup depends on the fiber network behind it. ARNet is a dark fiber infrastructure provider in Southeast Asia with an AI-grade fiber network that spans more than 10,000 km. Its network connects over 60 data centers across major markets such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand. Key routes include Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, Cyberjaya, Jakarta, Batam, and Singapore.
ARNet owns and operates its full infrastructure. This includes fiber cables and optical line amplifier (OLA) stations. Everything is built and managed by its in-house engineering team. Its FiberGrid architecture runs through highways, railways, metro routes, and submarine landing points. This design creates strong route diversity and high reliability, with a committed SLA.
About the Author
Nabila Choirunnisa, Digital Marketing Executive at ARNet