Network

AWS Direct Connect

AWS Direct Connect establishes a dedicated network connection from on-premises to AWS. Bypass the public internet for consistent, low-latency private connectivity.

What is Direct Connect? (Simple Explanation)

Direct Connect is an AWS service in the Network category. AWS Direct Connect establishes a dedicated network connection from on-premises to AWS.

When Would You Use This?

  • Hybrid cloud architecture
  • High-throughput data transfer
  • Real-time data replication
  • Latency-sensitive workloads
  • Private connectivity for compliance requirements

Who Uses Direct Connect?

From startups to enterprises, Direct Connect powers:

StartupsMid-size CompaniesLarge EnterprisesGovernmentNonprofits

What Makes Direct Connect Powerful

1 Gbps, 10 Gbps, and 100 Gbps port speeds
LAG (Link Aggregation Groups) for higher bandwidth
Direct Connect Gateway for multi-VPC connectivity
Transit Virtual Interface for Transit Gateway integration
MACsec encryption for Layer 2 security

Services That Work with Direct Connect

Direct Connect is rarely used alone. It's typically combined with:

Compliance & Security

How AWS Direct Connect fits into major compliance standards:

CIS AWS Foundations

Direct Connect configuration is audited by CIS Benchmarks 1.5–3.0 for secure cloud defaults.

NIST 800-53

Direct Connect access controls, encryption, and audit logging map to NIST 800-53 AC, SC, and AU control families.

PCI DSS 4.0

Direct Connect encryption, access control, and logging support PCI DSS for cardholder data environments.

SOC 2

Direct Connect security, availability, and confidentiality controls evaluated under SOC 2 Trust Services Criteria.

ISO 27001

Direct Connect configuration and monitoring controls map to ISO 27001 Annex A information security management.

Ready to secure your Direct Connect configuration?

Pavora continuously monitors your AWS Direct Connect for misconfigurations, compliance violations, and security risks.