> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.console.zenlayer.com/welcome/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.console.zenlayer.com/welcome/cloud-networking/get-started/create-a-port.md).

# Create a Port

## Background Information

Ports provide the access points, while cross connects create the physical link between these points. For example, in a data center, your server has a port that connects to a switch via a cross connect. The switch may then connect to other network devices or external providers, allowing data to flow between systems.

We support two kinds of ways to build the cross connect needed for your port: **Self-Build** and **Assisted Build**. View [**Create a Cross Connect**](/welcome/cloud-networking/get-started/create-a-port/create-a-cross-connect.md) for details.

## Port Types

When creating a port, you can choose between two port types based on your business scale and network needs:

* **Standard Port**\
  A standard physical access port suitable for most general access scenarios.
* **Unlimited Port**\
  Building on the Standard Port, it supports **higher port rates** for bandwidth-intensive, high-throughput scenarios. In addition, the Unlimited Port comes with **free metro backbone**, meaning backbone traffic within the same city incurs no extra charge, helping you reduce cross-facility interconnection costs.\ <img src="/files/BWTIZWYCb7GnrFL9mThK" alt="" data-size="line"><mark style="color:blue;">**Note**</mark>\ <mark style="color:blue;">- The Unlimited Port currently supports Layer 2 connections only; Layer 3 connections are not yet supported.</mark>\ <mark style="color:blue;">- The Unlimited Port is currently available for purchase in the Singapore region only, but its cross-city connectivity is not affected and is not limited to use within Singapore.</mark>

## Procedures

On the upper left corner of zenConsole, go to **Products** > **Cloud Networking** > **Port** > [**Create Port**](https://console.zenlayer.com/sdn/port/create).\
The overall steps of creating a port is shown below.

<figure><img src="/files/utLwOUFfanLt1Th57FJj" alt=""><figcaption><p>Create a Port Flow</p></figcaption></figure>

1. Select the port location closest to your data center.
2. Select the port type: **Standard Port** or **Unlimited Port**.

   Choose the Unlimited Port if you need higher port rates and free metro backbone (currently available in the Singapore region only). See [Port Types](#port-types) for details.
3. Select the port specification. 1 Gbps, 10 Gbps, 100 Gbps and 400 Gbps are supported.\ <img src="/files/BWTIZWYCb7GnrFL9mThK" alt="" data-size="line"><mark style="color:blue;">**Note**</mark>\ <mark style="color:blue;">To future-proof your business, a 10 Gbps above port rate is recommended.</mark>
4. Select the build method of the cross connect.

   * **Self-Build**\
     You'll set up the cross connect offline by yourself. You need to provide the legal business name of the authorized party. We will upload the LOA (letter of authorization) for you to establish your cross connect.\ <img src="/files/BWTIZWYCb7GnrFL9mThK" alt="" data-size="line"><mark style="color:blue;">**Note**</mark>\ <mark style="color:blue;">**-**</mark> <mark style="color:blue;">Entity name for LOA should match the name registered with the colocation facility.</mark> \ <mark style="color:blue;">- It will take</mark> <mark style="color:blue;">2 to 3 days to upload LOA.</mark>\
     \- <mark style="color:blue;">The LOA will expire in 30 days. Please establish your cross connect as soon as possible.</mark>\ <mark style="color:blue;">-</mark> <mark style="color:blue;">If you encounter any issues beyond your control, you can also create a cross connect on zenConosle.</mark>
   * **Assisted Build**\
     Zenlayer will build the cross connect for you offline. You need to provide a valid PDF file including your cross connect location and build method, as well as your contact information.\ <img src="/files/BWTIZWYCb7GnrFL9mThK" alt="" data-size="line"><mark style="color:blue;">**Note**</mark>\ <mark style="color:blue;">It usually takes</mark> <mark style="color:blue;">15 business days to construct the cross connect. Please be patient.</mark>

   View [**Create a Cross Connect**](/welcome/cloud-networking/get-started/create-a-port/create-a-cross-connect.md) for details.
5. Label your port for identification.