# Create a Cross Connect

## Background Information

### **Cross Connect**

A cross connect uses additional patch panels to link two separate hardware units by patch cords in a data center. It enables the unit owners to set up a private network connection, avoiding the need to use the internet for connectivity.

### **Patch Cable**

A patch cable is a short length of cabling used to connect devices in a network, typically to patch panels, switches, or other devices. It provides the physical connection in the cross connect cabinet.

### **LOA**

An LOA (letter of authorization) contains information such as location, specifications and contactors for cross connect construction. If the contractor encounters any problems, they can refer to the LOA or contact the relevant person.

{% hint style="info" %} <mark style="color:blue;">**Note**</mark>

* <mark style="color:blue;">The business entity name for LOA should match the name registered with the colocation facility.</mark>&#x20;
* <mark style="color:blue;">The LOA will expire in 90 days. Please establish your cross connect as soon as possible.</mark>
  {% endhint %}

## Build Method

We support the following two ways to build the cross connect needed for your port.

### **Self-Build**

You build the cross connect offline all by yourself.&#x20;

* LOA preparation.\
  We will upload the LOA for you to establish your cross connect. It will take 2 to 3 days.
* Offline construction.\
  Download LOA, construct cross connect and your end's patch cables offline. Once completed, notify us so we can arrange our end's patch cable construction.&#x20;

{% hint style="info" %} <mark style="color:blue;">**Note**</mark>

<mark style="color:blue;">The LOA will expire in 90 days. Please establish your cross connect as soon as possible.</mark>
{% endhint %}

### **Assisted Build**

Zenlayer build the cross connect for you offline.&#x20;

* Cross connect construction.\
  On-site construction shall begin after the approval of your uploaded LOA.&#x20;
* Patch cable construction.\
  After your end's patch cable construction is completed, we will arrange our end's patch cable construction.&#x20;

{% hint style="info" %} <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>
{% endhint %}

## Procedures

A cross connect can only be linked to one port. If you have an unlinked or an Inactive self-built port, you can create a cross connect online and link it to your desired port, thus Zenlayer will build the cross connect for you.

1. Go to **Products** > **Cloud Networking** > **Port** > **Cross Connect** > **Create Cross Connect**.
2. Select a desired port.
3. Upload your LOA certificate in the PDF format.
4. Provide your contact information. Please ensure the accuracy of the information provided, as we will use it to contact you if any issues arise during the cross connect build.
5. Label your cross connect.
6. Choose the commitment term of your cross connect.

{% hint style="info" %} <mark style="color:blue;">**Note**</mark>

<mark style="color:blue;">The associated port can only be deleted after the commitment term ends, that is one year temporarily. Please apply one month in advance.</mark>
{% endhint %}

## What to Do Next

Go to cross connect list page, click the cross connect name to view the construction progress.

<div align="left"><figure><img src="https://3201622183-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F9X3FDdkCL2HzhbPpPMFt%2Fuploads%2FYsbFp3qBl3ttIwPXm8ac%2Fimage.png?alt=media&#x26;token=7340e9ff-35ac-42bd-b506-da68b46f9b98" alt="" width="563"><figcaption><p>Cross Connect Build Progress</p></figcaption></figure></div>

If your LOA is invalid, you can contact us and **Re-upload LOA** in the **Actions** to try again.

If the cross connect build is failed, you can **Withdraw Application** in the **Actions** and try again. You can also try self-build method.