> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.link11.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.link11.com/product-guides/network-ddos-legacy/faq/establishing-layer-2-connections.md).

# Establishing Layer 2 Connections

## Introduction <a href="#establishinglayer2connections-introduction" id="establishinglayer2connections-introduction"></a>

Establishing an Ethernet (Layer 2) connection with a remote datacenter for companies housing equipment on-premise can be confusing. In order to provide clarity, we have identified four different options for establishing L2 connections to a Link11 site, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.

The up-to-date list of the Link11 points of presence: <https://www.peeringdb.com/net/1081>

## 1. Multiservice Port: <a href="#establishinglayer2connections-1.multiserviceport" id="establishinglayer2connections-1.multiserviceport"></a>

Link11 has established relationships with various transport providers, allowing our customers to establish a connection to our datacenters via the below-mentioned partners.

Customers who can easily connect to any of these transport providers, can leverage this relationship for ***faster provisioning*** and ***lower costs.***

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note**:

This service is only an option if the prospect is connected, or can easily connect, to one of these transport providers.
{% endhint %}

The list of providers and where we are connected to them are as follows:

| Provider   | Location            |
| ---------- | ------------------- |
| BSO        | London              |
| EuNetworks | FFM/Germany         |
| Colt       | FFM/Germany, London |

The customer ***should*** order the circuit directly with the mutually agreed-upon transport provider, and Link11 will then provide the port the circuit will terminate on.

**Advantages**:

* quick onboarding time
* customer does not need to take care of cross connects in the datacenter

## 2. Cloud connect <a href="#establishinglayer2connections-2.cloudconnect" id="establishinglayer2connections-2.cloudconnect"></a>

Some of the IXP/datacenters provide cloud connect services. If you are already have presence in a datacenter or are connected with a mentioned IXP you can leverage this for a connectivity to Link11 platform:

| Provider | Location                    |
| -------- | --------------------------- |
| DECIX    | Frankfurt                   |
| Equinix  | Frankfurt, Miami, Singapore |

{% hint style="info" %}
We strongly recommend avoiding multiplexing ddos-protected and unprotected services on the same physical links.
{% endhint %}

## 3. Order Your Own Local Loop/X-Connect: <a href="#establishinglayer2connections-3.orderyourownlocalloop-x-connect" id="establishinglayer2connections-3.orderyourownlocalloop-x-connect"></a>

This is the the most popular option, given the diversity of transport providers. Customers should already know what transport/local loop options exist in their facilities and as such, they can negotiate with those suppliers directly to connect to an agreed upon set of locations with the Link11sites.

If option 1 is not feasible, then this should be the default method.

{% hint style="warning" %}
Please take into account when choosing this option, the transport service shall be terminated in the Link11 Rack. With this option, the customer is in charge for transport service, end to end.
{% endhint %}

{% hint style="warning" %}
Single mode fiber, single mode SFP 1310 nm is needed.\
Please avoid using multi-mode SFP and/or patch cords.
{% endhint %}

## 4. Concierge Service: <a href="#establishinglayer2connections-4.conciergeservice" id="establishinglayer2connections-4.conciergeservice"></a>

If the customer is adamant that we order the transport service on their behalf, In this case, we will work on the opportunity to find and negotiate the 3rd party service, as we have experience in this area.

{% hint style="info" %}
**Note:**

By choosing this option Link11 will :

* Find and negotiate a service to the customer premise
* Manage a 3rd party contract so that it terminates at the same time as the customer contract with Link11
* Co-ordinate any maintenance and outages with the 3rd party and the end customer.
  {% endhint %}

## Sizing & Pricing information: <a href="#establishinglayer2connections-5.sizing-and-pricinginformation" id="establishinglayer2connections-5.sizing-and-pricinginformation"></a>

Establishing a Layer 2 comes with additional costs for the customer:

| Type of connection                                    | Ordered from                                             | Fees and Costs                                                                                                                                                                                                  |
| ----------------------------------------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Direct Connect                                        | Layer 2 access line provider like BT, AT\&T; COLT, aso … | <ul><li>Includes setup fee depending on location and effort</li><li>Includes monthly costs</li></ul>                                                                                                            |
| <p>Cross Connect</p><p>X-Connect</p><p>Local Loop</p> | the local DC Provider, depends on the Provider           | <ul><li>Normally includes standard setup fee</li><li>Includes monthly costs depending on DC Provider and DC location.</li><li>Only delivered to customers of the DC (so no end customer can order it)</li></ul> |
| Inter Connect                                         | <ul><li>the DC Vendor/Provider</li></ul>                 | <ul><li>includes Setup Fee depending on location and effort</li><li>will only be delivered to customers of the DC (can be done with a LOA)</li><li>additional Cross Connect might be necessary</li></ul>        |
| Local Patch                                           | done by the Rack owner                                   | <ul><li>includes Setup Fee depending on location and effort if remote hands is chosen</li><li>Can be done by the customer himself</li></ul>                                                                     |

## Conclusion <a href="#establishinglayer2connections-6.glossar" id="establishinglayer2connections-6.glossar"></a>

We hope that this documentation provides the necessary information to help you make an informed decision when establishing your L2 connection to the Link11 network.

If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to [contact us](mailto:support@link11.com).

## Glossary <a href="#establishinglayer2connections-6.glossar" id="establishinglayer2connections-6.glossar"></a>

**Direct Connect / Leased Line / Access Line :** Regardless of the product name or the designation by the selling provider, the terms mean a physical line and cable connection from the starting point (called A-End) to the destination (called B-End).

**Cross Connect:** The cabling required to establish a connection between two separate devices in a data center (means the same data center but different Racks).

**Interconnect:** An Interconnect is used to link active equipment in DC1 with another hardware unit in DC2. (Both DCs are usually property of the same vendor.)

**Local Patch:** Defines the network (RJ45) or fiber optic cable (LC, FSM-A) from your own server or router in your own rack to the patch panel within the same rack in the data center.