How to Obtain IPv4 Space for Your Business Network

The process of obtaining IPv4 space for your network is both intricate and detailed. This guide will walk you through the essential steps, ensuring that you are well-prepared to secure a block of IPv4 addresses for your business needs.

Understanding Your Options for IPv4 Space

There are two primary routes to obtain IPv4 space:

Ask Your Internet Service Provider (ISP) for Space: Often, your current ISP might offer additional IP blocks or have connections to upstream providers that can provide the necessary IPv4 space. Form a Business Entity and Contact Local Regional Internet Registry (RIR): If your existing ISP cannot provide sufficient IPv4 space, you can consider forming a business entity in your region and applying directly to your local RIR.

Steps for Obtaining IPv4 Space Through a Regional Internet Registry

To obtain IPv4 space through a Regional Internet Registry (RIR), follow these steps:

Sign Upstream Provider Agreements: Establish broadband connectivity with at least two upstream providers. Ensure you obtain a copy of the account agreement from each provider. Apply for an ASN (Autonomous System Number): Apply to your local RIR for an ASN. This process typically requires documentation of your corporation and the aforementioned upstream provider agreements. Pay the associated fee (e.g., $550 for ARIN). Establish a BGP Connection: Set up a BGP (Border Gateway Protocol) connection with the edge router of each upstream provider. Ensure that you have a full routing table or a default route from each provider. Apply for IPv4 Space: Visit your Local RIR and submit a formal request for IPv4 space. Be ready to fill out an officer attestation and provide a detailed justification for the IP addresses. Multihoming is usually a sufficient justification. Potential Waiting Period: Your request may be placed on a waiting list. The process can take anywhere from 60 to 90 days. In the US, you may need to pay a 250 application fee and a 150 yearly fee. Configure Your Router: Add the allocated IP address block to your router's configuration and ensure that your upstream providers can view and receive the updated configuration. Work with them to prevent any filtering or misconfiguration. Sign Additional Documents: Set up a route object in your local internet registry and sign a letter of authorization for your upstream providers.

In total, the entire process can take approximately four months. It's crucial to ensure that your network is properly configured and fully compliant with RIR standards.

Alternative to Obtaining IPv4 Space

If your goal is to assign an individual IP address to a single web server or workstation without Network Address Translation (NAT), you might need to reconsider your network design. Remember, you do not own the IP addresses; you are merely renting them from RIRs such as ARIN, RIPE NCC, or APNIC.

For those looking for quicker solutions, IPv6 space is more readily available and can be assigned more rapidly, especially if other RIRs have a larger inventory. However, this advice is not directly related to IPv4 space as per your question.

Contact Consulting Services

If you're seeking professional assistance with network infrastructure design or IPv4 allocation, you can find me through various professional networks. I'm here to help with any questions you may have.