Hyperspace lanes

The prevalence of mass shadows throughout the galaxy necessitated a concerted effort to chart safe routes between worlds to encourage interplanetary trade and commerce. Five major hyperlanes connect the disparate regions of the galaxy. Fast, safe passage along each of these routes is critical to keep intergalactic goods and services flowing.
If pirates or Rebels were to control even a small portion of a major hyperlane, it would generate a perception of weakness in the Empire. The Imperial Navy fields heavy patrols along the major hyperlanes to mitigate this risk as much as possible. Innumerable smaller routes branch off from the major lanes, connecting the known galaxy.

Major Hyperlanes
Hydian Way Perlemian Trade Route Corellian Run Corellian Trade Spine Rimma Trade Route