IPv6 adoption is growing, but IPv4 addresses remain in high demand due to legacy systems, compatibility issues, and market dynamics. Here’s what you need to know:
- IPv4 scarcity: With only 4.3 billion available addresses, IPv4 addresses have become valuable commodities. Prices range from $24 to $50 per address in 2025, and leasing options are increasingly popular.
- IPv6 growth: IPv6 offers 340 undecillion addresses, faster routing, and built-in security. Global adoption is at 43% for Google traffic but grows at just 3–4% annually.
- Dual-stack solutions: Most businesses rely on dual-stack networks (IPv4 and IPv6) to ensure compatibility during the transition.
- Challenges: Migrating to IPv6 requires new hardware, software, training, and addressing compatibility issues, especially for IoT and legacy systems.
- Opportunities: Companies can monetize unused IPv4 addresses through leasing or sales, while also planning gradual IPv6 adoption.
Быстрое сравнение
| ОсобенностьОсобенность | IPv4 | Internet Protocol version 6 |
|---|---|---|
| Address Space | ~4.3 billion | 340 undecillion |
| Configuration | Manual/DHCP | Auto-configuration (SLAAC) |
| Безопасность | Optional IPsec | Built-in IPsec |
| NAT Requirement | Required | Not needed |
| Стоимость | $24–$50 per address | Included in ISP services |
| Adoption Rate (2025) | N/A | ~43% |
The transition to IPv6 is inevitable, but IPv4 will remain essential for years due to compatibility challenges. Businesses should adopt dual-stack strategies and optimize IPv4 assets to navigate this complex landscape effectively.
1. IPv4
Address Architecture
IPv4 uses a 32-bit structure, which allows for approximately 4.3 billion unique addresses. These addresses are typically divided into network and host portions, making hierarchical organization possible through subnetting. For instance, a /16 block contains 65,536 addresses, which can be further split into /24 subnets. However, the rapid growth of connected devices has pushed IPv4 to its limits. To address this scarcity, private address ranges (10.0.0.0/8, 172.16.0.0/12, and 192.168.0.0/16) are often used in combination with Network Address Translation (NAT). While NAT helps conserve address space, it can complicate applications that require direct connectivity. These constraints have significantly influenced the IPv4 market landscape.
Market Trends and Costs
By 2024, the IPv4 market had reached a point of relative stability, driven by consistent demand, higher transaction volumes, and ongoing shortages. That year, Brander Group managed 724 IPv4 transfers globally, involving over 3.4 million IP addresses and generating $154 million in sales. Their activity marked a 39% increase in transfer volume compared to the previous year, representing about 35% of monthly global IPv4 transactions.
Pricing trends have been particularly interesting. Large address blocks, like /16s, saw their prices drop from nearly $50 per address in mid-2024 to just over $24 by March 2025. On the other hand, smaller ranges, such as /20–/21 and /22–/24, have held steady, with prices hovering between $31 and $34 per address. By May 2025, over 18 million IPv4 addresses had changed hands, indicating that total transfers for the year could surpass 37 million.
Adoption Barriers
Although IPv6 adoption is growing, many organizations continue to depend on IPv4. Legacy systems, applications, and network infrastructure designed specifically for IPv4 make migration a complex and costly endeavor. The rise of IoT devices has further fueled IPv4 demand, as many industrial sensors and devices still lack IPv6 compatibility. Upgrading to IPv6 often requires significant investments in new hardware, software, and employee training, which can deter organizations from making the switch.
Business Strategies
In response to these challenges, businesses are adopting various strategies to optimize their use of IPv4. Centralized IP Address Management (IPAM) and audits are helping companies reclaim unused addresses. IPv4 leasing has also become a popular option, offering a flexible and cost-effective alternative to outright purchases.
As the market enters an accumulation phase in early 2025, strategic buyers are preparing to secure IPv4 addresses in anticipation of potential price increases. Companies like V4 Capital PartnersПартнер V4 Capital are playing a key role by providing brokerage, leasing, and consulting services to maximize the utility of IPv4 assets. Additionally, dual-stack implementations, which allow simultaneous use of IPv4 and IPv6, are enabling organizations to maintain operational continuity while gradually transitioning to IPv6.
2. IPv6
Address Architecture
IPv6 steps up from IPv4’s 32-bit limit, which capped out at about 4.3 billion addresses, by introducing a 128-bit format. This upgrade provides a staggering 340 undecillion addresses (3.4×10³⁸), enough to assign billions of addresses to every person on the planet. Alongside this immense capacity, IPv6 also simplifies header structures, making routing more efficient. This means packets are processed faster, reducing the workload on network devices. Plus, its hierarchical addressing and prefix aggregation help streamline global internet routing.
Another key feature of IPv6 is its support for Stateless Address Autoconfiguration (SLAAC) and built-in IPsec. These features not only make configuration easier but also enhance security compared to IPv4, which relies on manual setups or DHCP . These advancements are shaping the future of network infrastructure, as we’ll explore in the next sections.
Market Trends and Costs
IPv6 adoption is growing steadily, though the pace is still slow. By early 2025, about 43% of global internet traffic to Google is over IPv6, with availability surpassing 44% as of May 2024. However, the adoption rate is increasing at only 3–4% annually.
Adoption levels vary significantly by region and sector. France leads globally with a 76% IPv6 adoption rate, followed by India at 72%. Mobile providers are also ahead of fixed broadband networks in IPv6 usage.
Performance-wise, IPv6 shows clear advantages. Tests indicate it offers 10–15% faster access times on platforms like Facebook and reduces median load times on mobile networks by 5%, according to Akamai.
Cost is another factor driving IPv6 adoption. For example, Amazon charges about $43 per IPv4 address annually, which has pushed data centers toward IPv6-only setups to cut costs and simplify operations.
Adoption Barriers
Transitioning to IPv6 isn’t without challenges. Legacy infrastructure built for IPv4 makes migrating both complex and expensive. A lack of expertise further complicates the process. Matthew Wilder from Telus notes, "there is an initial hurdle to get your staff aware and understanding IPv6". Additionally, IPv4’s lack of backward compatibility continues to be a sticking point. Leslie Daigle, former Chief Internet Technology Officer for the Internet Society, explains:
"The lack of real backward compatibility for IPv4 was the single critical failure"
Some organizations find it easier to stick with IPv4 due to its established workarounds. Jake Brander of Brander Group puts it this way:
"Even at $50 an IP, it was still worth it to purchase the IP addresses because it’s a streamlined process. You don’t have to buy new gear, there’s no learning curve, and there’s no backwards compatibility issues"
Connectivity issues also pose a hurdle. In one experiment, an IPv4-only resolver successfully handled 99.5% of domain resolutions, while an IPv6-only resolver managed just 71.7%.
Business Strategies
Most organizations are using dual-stack deployment as their go-to strategy for transitioning to IPv6 . This approach allows them to run both IPv4 and IPv6 simultaneously. To ensure a smooth transition, companies are creating detailed adoption plans with clear goals and timelines. They’re also investing in training programs to build internal expertise. As Natalie Künan Troman from AMS-IX points out:
"For network people, whenever you have an interest in technology, you’re making money out of technology, that means by default that you have to keep up with technology otherwise you’re out of a job at some point"
Security is a top priority during the transition. Businesses are implementing network segmentation and access controls tailored for IPv6 environments. They’re also making sure to properly configure IPv6’s built-in IPsec for enhanced security. Many companies are teaming up with industry partners to avoid common pitfalls during the shift.
Still, experts agree that IPv4 isn’t going away anytime soon. As Natalie Künan Troman notes:
"The reality is we’re stuck with IPv4 for a long time"
For businesses that must continue using IPv4 during this ongoing transition, consulting with firms like V4 Capital Partner (https://v4-solutions.com) can be a smart move. These specialists help optimize underused IPv4 assets through strategic management, providing valuable support in navigating this complex landscape.
Reflections and Projections: IPv6 in 2024 and 2025
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Преимущества и недостатки
Looking at IPv4 and IPv6 side by side highlights some clear trade-offs in terms of cost, performance, and scalability.
Cost Implications
IPv4 addresses have become a pricey commodity due to their limited availability. Prices for purchasing IPv4 addresses typically range between $25 and $50 per address. For a standard /24 block (256 addresses), this adds up to $6,400 to $12,800. Leasing IPv4 addresses isn’t cheap either, with monthly rates falling between $1 and $2 per address – roughly $256 to $512 per month for a /24 block. For example, AWS charges $0.005 per IPv4 address per hour, which totals around $43.80 per year for a single IP.
On the other hand, IPv6 is far more affordable. Most ISPs include IPv6 addresses at no extra charge, and obtaining a block of 256 IPv6 addresses from a Regional Internet Registry costs about $1 per address.
Managing IPv4 networks also comes with additional costs. Network Address Translation (NAT), essential for IPv4 networks, adds complexity, increases maintenance needs, and can even introduce security vulnerabilities. A case study showed that a $6.5 million investment in IPv6 led to significant savings: $300,000 annually from reduced network complexity, $100,000 from lower energy costs, $200,000 from eliminated IP leasing fees, and $500,000 from improved security. On top of that, performance gains were estimated to boost revenue by $2 million, allowing the organization to break even in just 1.6 years.
But cost isn’t the only factor – technical differences between the two protocols also play a big role in shaping network strategies.
Performance and Technical Benefits
| Aspect | IPv4 | Internet Protocol version 6 |
|---|---|---|
| Address Space | ~4.3 billion addresses | 340 undecillion addresses |
| Header Complexity | Complex routing | Simplified packet processing |
| Configuration | Manual or via DHCP | Auto-configuration capabilities |
| Безопасность | Optional IPsec | Built-in IPsec |
| NAT Requirement | Required for most networks | Not needed |
In terms of performance, IPv6 shows some clear advantages. Research from Akamai found that, for dual-stacked hostnames, over half of them had IPv6 throughput at least 50% faster than IPv4. Additionally, 90% of these hostnames showed IPv6 throughput at least 10% faster. That said, some studies note that IPv6 round-trip times can be slightly slower – on average, about 1.4 milliseconds longer than IPv4.
One of IPv6’s standout benefits is the elimination of NAT. Without the need for NAT, IPv6 networks enable direct, end-to-end communication, which reduces the workload on network devices and simplifies troubleshooting. These capabilities are especially critical for supporting new technologies like IoT and 5G networks.
Business Impact and Strategic Considerations
The differences in cost and performance between IPv4 and IPv6 influence key decisions for businesses planning their network evolution. IPv6 is built to handle the rapid growth of connected devices, making it ideal for environments with expanding IoT, mobile, and cloud deployments. Its larger address space also eliminates the need for complex subnetting.
Security is another area where IPv6 shines, thanks to its built-in IPsec support. However, these security features need proper configuration to be effective. During the transition phase, many organizations opt for dual-stack networks (running both IPv4 and IPv6), which can temporarily increase costs and complexity.
Transitioning to IPv6 also requires a skilled workforce. Nearly half of surveyed enterprises report having between 1 and 100 custom-built applications, which can complicate the migration process. To ensure a smooth transition, businesses need to invest in training staff and testing application compatibility.
For companies still heavily reliant on IPv4, there are strategic opportunities to manage this asset effectively. Professional brokerage services can help optimize underused IPv4 resources, turning them into valuable assets.
The timeline for adopting IPv6 depends on industry-specific needs and technical requirements. Early adopters often benefit from simpler network architectures and cost efficiencies. However, organizations with extensive legacy systems may find sticking with IPv4 more practical in the short term. As DevOps expert Kristian Razum puts it:
"Right now most users are fine coasting with IPv4, it doesn’t pose a risk. But if we completely ignore the benefits of IPv6, we’ll miss out on many developments and risk facing issues in the future."
Вывод
The coexistence of IPv6 adoption and sustained demand for IPv4 is shaping a complex, long-term transition that may stretch well into the next few decades. While IPv6 offers clear technical improvements, IPv4 remains indispensable for many businesses due to compatibility needs and the gradual pace of global IPv6 implementation. According to APNIC Labs, universal IPv6 adoption might not occur until around 2045, leaving organizations to manage both protocols for the foreseeable future.
This prolonged timeline presents key opportunities for businesses holding IPv4 assets. The scarcity of IPv4 addresses continues to drive their value, making them highly sought-after for leasing or sales. For example, in the first quarter of 2025, 8.4 million IPv4 addresses were traded within regional internet registries (RIRs), reflecting strong market interest. As Lee Howard, Senior Vice President at IPv4.Global, highlighted:
"We just successfully implemented our lending program for a data center operator so they can grow their cloud business, making us the first and only company lending against IPv4 addresses today".
To navigate this dual-protocol era, dual-stack deployment remains the most viable approach for ensuring business continuity while gradually adopting IPv6. Matthew Wilder, a senior engineer at Telus, explained:
"The operation model of dual stack is going to be the way to transition".
In addition to dual-stack strategies, conducting thorough asset audits can unlock further value. Identifying underutilized IPv4 blocks is crucial, as 21% of Local Internet Registries (LIRs) currently report excess capacity. These unused addresses can be monetized, provided organizations retain the minimum allocations needed for operations. Investing in Route Origin Authorization (ROA) coverage is another critical step; businesses with full ROA protection experience 73% fewer route hijacks.
The market has also shifted from crisis response to a focus on resource optimization. With 72% of IPv4 space now secured by ROA, businesses are increasingly leveraging specialized services to maximize their IP assets. Companies like V4 Capital PartnersПартнер V4 Capital offer brokerage, investment, and consulting services to help organizations unlock the potential of unused IPv4 addresses while planning for a strategic IPv6 transition.
As the internet’s infrastructure continues to evolve, businesses that actively manage their IP resources – whether through monetization, leasing, or phased IPv6 adoption – will be better equipped to seize current market opportunities and meet future network demands.
Часто задаваемые вопросы
Why is IPv6 adoption progressing slowly even though it offers clear technical benefits over IPv4?
IPv6 adoption has faced a sluggish start due to a mix of practical and financial hurdles. Shifting from IPv4 to IPv6 often demands a hefty investment in new hardware, updated software, and employee training programs. For many organizations, the expense and effort involved are hard to justify, especially when IPv4 still meets their current operational needs.
Another major roadblock is the challenge of ensuring compatibility between IPv4 and IPv6. Many businesses rely on dual-stack systems to support both protocols simultaneously, which adds layers of complexity to network management and can lead to inefficiencies in operations. On top of this, some Internet Service Providers (ISPs) have been slow to fully support IPv6, further stalling its widespread adoption.
For businesses working through this transition, strategies like maximizing the use of underutilized IPv4 assets can ease the process. Companies like V4 Capital PartnersПартнер V4 Capital specialize in IPv4 address brokerage and digital asset management, offering practical solutions to help organizations manage these challenges while contributing to the growth of internet infrastructure.
How can businesses smoothly transition to IPv6 while maximizing the value of their IPv4 assets?
Businesses can smoothly transition to IPv6 while still making use of their existing IPv4 resources by implementing a подход с использованием двух стеков. This strategy allows both IPv4 and IPv6 to operate side by side, ensuring that services reliant on IPv4 remain uninterrupted while IPv6 is gradually introduced into the network. To further support compatibility during this shift, Преобразования сетевых адресов (NAT) can facilitate communication between the two protocols.
To make the transition more efficient, companies should start by assessing their current infrastructure to pinpoint systems that are ready for IPv6. Equipping IT teams with the necessary training to manage IPv6 is another critical step. This not only simplifies the migration but also allows businesses to maximize the value of their IPv4 assets while positioning themselves for an IPv6-dominated future. For those seeking expert guidance, partners like V4 Capital PartnersПартнер V4 Capital offer tailored solutions to help businesses navigate this process effectively.
What financial advantages can businesses gain by leasing or selling their unused IPv4 addresses during the shift to IPv6?
Businesses have a unique opportunity to tap into significant financial gains by leasing or selling their unused IPv4 addresses as the shift to IPv6 progresses. Лизинг offers a steady income stream while allowing companies to maintain ownership of their IPv4 assets, making it a smart option for those seeking long-term financial stability. In contrast, selling delivers an immediate cash boost, which can be reinvested into other strategic priorities.
With IPv4 addresses becoming increasingly scarce, their market value remains strong despite the growing adoption of IPv6. By monetizing these underutilized assets, businesses can make better use of their digital resources and maintain a competitive edge. For companies navigating this transition, working with experienced partners like V4 Capital Partner can help ensure they maximize the value of their IPv4 assets while streamlining digital asset management.