Since IPv4 addresses can no longer be obtained from RIRs, a secondary market has emerged. Understanding this market is essential for obtaining IP addresses today.
Why a Transfer Market Exists
IPv4 exhaustion means Regional Internet Registries no longer have addresses to allocate. Organizations needing IPs must obtain them from existing holders through purchases, transfers, or leases.
This scarcity created a market where IPv4 addresses are traded like any valuable resource.
Market Options
There are three main ways to obtain IPv4 addresses.
Permanent ownership transfer registered with RIR. Highest upfront cost, but no ongoing payments.
Use addresses for monthly/annual fee. Lower upfront cost, flexible terms.
Receive a portion of a larger holder's allocation. Often used by LIRs serving customers.
How Transfers Work
A typical IPv4 transfer involves several steps.
The buyer and seller agree commercial terms covering price, prefix list, and any post-transfer obligations.
Both parties complete due diligence, including blocklist scans, route history, and identity verification of the counterparty.
The transfer agreement and supporting registry documents, including the Letter of Authorization, are signed.
The recipient submits the transfer request to the relevant Regional Internet Registry, which validates policy compliance.
The RIR records the change of holder, escrow releases funds against the registry confirmation, and the recipient begins announcing the prefix.
Why Use a Broker
Brokers like IP Market simplify the process by providing verified inventory, handling paperwork, and ensuring compliance with RIR policies.