Overview

CEN uses transit routers deployed in different regions to build a full-mesh network on top of the Alibaba Cloud global transmission network. CEN enables global network communication: ● The two transit routers can be connected through multiple highly available and highly reliable lines. ● Transit routers function as the network core in a spoke-hub network topology. You can use transit routers to connect virtual private clouds (VPCs) deployed in the same or different regions and on-premises networks to Alibaba Cloud. ● CEN provides a dashboard that allows you to monitor and manage all your networks.

Features

Large-Scale and On-Demand Networking

Network instances can be attached to the transit router in each region to communicate with each other. Networks are highly scalable and controllable with easy management. Simplified Network Topology Network instances, such as VPCs and virtual border routers (VBRs), can be attached to transit routers to simplify the configurations of point-to-point connections and improve network scalability. Flexible Management Transit routers support network communication, network isolation, and routing policies to improve network security.

Globally Connected Network

Network instances communicate with each other over high-speed, reliable, and stable connections. Globally Connected Network instances (such as VPCs and VBRs) can communicate with each other over private connections. Shortest-Path Algorithm The shortest-path algorithm of CEN automatically selects the optimal connection between the two network instances to reduce network latency and accelerate data transmission. High Redundancy At least four redundant routes exist between the two network instances to ensure service availability.

Automatic Route Learning and Advertisement

Automatic route learning and management simplify network O&M Network Management Automatic route learning and advertisement between nodes, allowing routes to converge quickly. Customer-Side Configurations Route configurations and management are significantly simplified.

Bandwidth Sharing and Management

Enable network communication between two regions with one bandwidth plan. Bandwidth Sharing Bandwidth plans are scoped to areas. Each pair of connected areas shares the same bandwidth plan. Flexible Adjustment Bandwidth resources for inter-region connections can be allocated on demand.

Benefits

Compliant ISP Lines for Cross-Border Communication

For example, Alibaba Cloud cooperates with top ISPs in China to deploy ISP lines that comply with laws and regulations. These ISP lines help enable network communication between Mainland China and regions outside Mainland China.

Extensive Network Resource Coverage

Alibaba Cloud provides more than 280 PoPs and operates 85 availability zones in 28 regions around the globe. Most of these POPs are located in the Asia Pacific. This helps develop your business in Asia.

Diversified Billing Methods

Supports flexible billing (such as subscription bandwidth plans and the pay-by-data-transfer metering method).

Quick Deployment

Enabling inter-region network communication only requires three steps in the console: 1. Create a CEN instance; 2. Attach the network instance to the CEN instance; 3. Purchase a bandwidth plan