- IPv4 prices are climbing: With only 4.3 billion addresses and a dwindling supply, prices have surged from $7.50 in 2015 to $40–$60 today. Smaller blocks like /24 cost more per address, while larger blocks like /16 offer better value.
- Demand remains high: Industries like IoT, cloud computing, and infrastructure still rely heavily on IPv4, even as IPv6 adoption grows slowly (only 44% availability as of 2024).
- Leasing is an option: Renting IPv4 addresses costs $0.42–$2 per address monthly, offering flexibility during the IPv6 transition.
- Regional differences matter: North America (ARIN) addresses are pricier due to demand, while Europe (RIPE NCC) and Asia may offer lower-cost alternatives with added complexities.
Quick Tips for Negotiations:
- Research the market: Prices fluctuate – recent /16 blocks dropped from $50 to $24 per address in 2024.
- Verify ownership: Use WHOIS and registry checks to avoid blacklisted or fraudulent blocks.
- Work with brokers and escrow services: They streamline deals and protect your investment.
- Negotiate bulk discounts: Larger purchases often mean lower per-address costs.
- Plan for the future: Include options for additional purchases and consider IPv6 migration timelines.
By understanding these trends and using smart strategies, you can secure the best deal for your IPv4 needs while preparing for the future.
Панель управления: Покупка и продажа IPv4-адресов
Current IPv4 Market Landscape
Understanding the IPv4 market is essential for navigating its pricing and deal-making complexities. Here’s a closer look at the key factors shaping this market.
Supply and Demand Dynamics
The IPv4 market is grappling with a severe supply shortage. Out of the original 4.3 billion IPv4 addresses, the number available for transfer has sharply declined – from 44.8 million in 2015 to just over 18.6 million by the end of Q3 2024. This dwindling supply has led to fierce competition and rising prices.
On the demand side, the need for IPv4 addresses remains robust. Industries like IoT, cloud computing, and internet infrastructure continue to drive demand. Organizations still reliant on IPv4 systems are competing for a resource that is increasingly scarce.
This imbalance has pushed prices upward over the years. For example, the cost per IPv4 address doubled from $15 in 2014 to $30 in 2019 and has since reached $44–$50 on average, with some addresses fetching premiums up to $60 by 2023. Current rates generally range between $25 and $50 or more per address. Pricing also varies by block size – smaller blocks like /24 subnets tend to cost more per address, while larger blocks like /16 offer better value due to economies of scale.
Regional Price Variations
IPv4 pricing is heavily influenced by geography, largely due to differing policies among Regional Internet Registries (RIRs).
- North America (ARIN): IPv4 addresses in this region are often priced at a premium due to strong local demand and limited availability. Reports consistently show that North America remains a hotbed of IPv4 demand, justifying these higher prices.
- Europe (RIPE NCC): European addresses benefit from more lenient transfer policies, such as the lack of a justification requirement. This flexibility can make acquisitions easier and influence pricing trends locally.
- Asia: Rapid technological growth in Asia has led to aggressive pricing. However, inter-RIR policies help prevent extreme price disparities between regions.
While ARIN-region addresses may cost more, they often integrate more seamlessly with North American infrastructure. On the other hand, European and Asian addresses might offer cost savings but could involve additional transfer complexities.
Recent data from 2024 highlights these regional dynamics. Brander Group, a leading IPv4 broker, facilitated 724 global IPv4 transfers, involving 3.4 million IP addresses and generating $154 million in sales revenue. Despite a 39% increase in transfer volume year-over-year, the total number of IPs transferred dropped by 10%, and overall revenue decreased by 19%.
How IPv6 Adoption Affects IPv4 Prices
Technological shifts, particularly the adoption of IPv6, also play a role in IPv4 pricing. While many expected IPv6 deployment to reduce IPv4 demand, the reality is more complex. As of May 2024, global IPv6 availability exceeded 44%, with just over one-third of internet users able to access IPv6-only services. Server-side IPv6 adoption reached 43.3% by query volume, but IPv6 connections between clients and servers occur only 13.2% of the time.
This partial adoption has not significantly eased the demand for IPv4. According to Geoff Huston, APNIC‘s Chief Scientist:
"Some commentators have advanced the view that an escalating price for IPv4 increases the economic incentive for IPv6 adoption, the reality is more complex. NATs and other sharing technologies have reduced some of the pressure that might otherwise have driven faster IPv6 adoption."
Technologies like dual-stack implementations и Преобразования сетевых адресов (NAT) allow businesses to continue using IPv4 while gradually incorporating IPv6. However, recent trends show that large subnet IPv4 prices dropped by about 33% in 2024, stabilizing at around $30 per IP.
For businesses, this means that IPv6 adoption timelines can heavily influence IPv4 purchasing strategies. Companies moving aggressively toward IPv6 might absorb higher IPv4 costs in the short term, while those planning for longer IPv4 reliance need to account for evolving market conditions.
Another emerging trend is the growing popularity of аренда IPv4-адресов, with rates typically ranging from $1 to $2 per IP address monthly. This option offers flexibility during the transition from IPv4 to IPv6. Understanding these trends is crucial for negotiating deals that align with both current pricing realities and future market shifts.
Preparing for Negotiations
Navigating IPv4 negotiations successfully starts with careful preparation. To avoid missteps, focus on gathering accurate market data, verifying address ownership, and defining your financial boundaries clearly.
Conducting Market Research
Knowing the market landscape is essential for confident negotiations. Start by examining historical pricing trends to spot patterns and cycles. For instance, IPv4 Global reports that prices for /16 blocks dropped sharply – from almost $50 per address in mid-2024 to just over $24 by March 2025 – a staggering 52% decline. This illustrates how unpredictable the market can be.
Interestingly, smaller block sizes, such as /20–/21 and /22–/24, have shown more stability, with prices generally ranging between $31 and $34 per address. RapidSeedbox has observed IPv4 purchase costs between $35 and $52 per address. When researching, compare prices across block sizes and consider regional pricing differences. For example, North American (ARIN) addresses typically cost more than their European (RIPE NCC) counterparts due to policy variations.
Leasing is another option worth exploring. Renting IPv4 addresses usually costs $0.42 to $0.45 per address monthly, translating to $110–$120 per month for a /24 block.
"IPv4 prices continue to inch down, while volume remains steady. The gap between large and small blocks continues to grow as well. Significant supply flowing into the market has contributed to the price drop. As that surplus works through the market, prices may not continue to decline."
This insight from IPv4 Global underscores the importance of timing your negotiations based on supply conditions. With a clear understanding of the market, the next step is verifying address ownership.
Verifying IPv4 Address Ownership
After researching pricing trends, confirming ownership is critical to avoid disputes or acquiring unusable IP blocks. Always request proper documentation from sellers, such as Regional Internet Registry (RIR) letters, invoices, and public registry records.
Start by checking the WHOIS database of the relevant RIR. The five RIRs cover different regions: ARIN (North America), RIPE NCC (Europe, Middle East, and parts of Central Asia), APNIC (Asia-Pacific), LACNIC (Latin America and Caribbean), and AFRINIC (Africa).
Additionally, use tools like MXToolbox, Talos Intelligence, и, и AbuseIPDB to review the history of the IPv4 block for any red flags. Keep in mind, you’re acquiring usage rights, not full ownership, as RIRs retain ultimate control. Be cautious of sellers unwilling to provide documentation or offering prices far below market value – these could signal fraudulent or problematic blocks.
If in doubt, consider hiring a trusted broker like V4 Capital PartnersПартнер V4 Capital (https://v4-solutions.com) to verify ownership and ensure compliance.
Setting Budget and Price Limits
Establishing a realistic budget is crucial. Account for both direct and indirect costs, such as the purchase price, transfer fees, and broker commissions, alongside ongoing management and integration expenses. For reference, IPv4 values have been increasing annually by 10%–20%.
When deciding between buying and leasing, weigh the pros and cons. Buying offers full control and is ideal for long-term needs but requires a significant upfront investment. Leasing, on the other hand, provides flexibility with lower initial costs but lacks ownership benefits.
Here’s a quick comparison of average costs by block size:
| Размер блока | Number of Addresses | Average Cost per Address |
|---|---|---|
| /24 | 256 | $50 – $60 |
| /22 | 1,024 | $45 – $55 |
| /16 | 65,536 | $40 – $50 |
Set a clear maximum price you’re willing to pay, factoring in market trends and potential risks. For 2024, the average price for an individual IPv4 address often exceeds $50, depending on the region. By quantifying the expected benefits, you can stick to your budget and avoid making impulsive decisions.
Effective IPv4 Price Negotiation Strategies
Once you’ve laid the groundwork, the next step is to apply smart negotiation tactics to navigate the fast-paced IPv4 market. The approach you take can mean the difference between securing a fair price or overspending on address blocks.
Using Tiered Bidding
Tiered bidding works well when you’re purchasing multiple IPv4 blocks or when your requirements are flexible. This method involves structuring offers based on block sizes and quantities, allowing you to achieve better pricing on larger purchases while keeping options open for smaller blocks.
Start by identifying your primary and secondary needs. For instance, if you require 2,048 addresses, you could bid on a single /21 block at your target price while also placing competitive bids on two /22 blocks as backups. Keep in mind that smaller blocks often come with higher per-address costs due to their scarcity, whereas larger blocks generally offer more competitive rates per address.
"Tiered pricing provides the registry with the ability to allocate names in an equitable, non-discriminatory fashion, to ensure that the domain names are being put to the best use."
- Michael D. Palage, Intellectual Property Attorney and IT Consultant
By presenting sellers with multiple scenarios, you can enhance your bargaining power. For example, you might propose $45 per address for a /16 block (65,536 addresses) while expressing a willingness to pay a higher rate for smaller blocks. Offering package deals can also help minimize transaction costs and speed up the process. This structured approach allows for flexibility in negotiations, which is crucial for achieving favorable terms.
Adding Flexibility to Agreements
Flexibility in your agreements can make a big difference in negotiations. Adjusting transfer timelines or including options for future purchases can help reduce risks and align with long-term goals. This adaptability is especially important in a market that evolves quickly.
By keeping your terms flexible, you position yourself as a cooperative buyer, which can encourage sellers to work with you. At the same time, having professional support can streamline the process and ensure smoother transactions.
Working with Brokers and Escrow Services
Partnering with experienced brokers and using escrow services can significantly strengthen your position while protecting your investment. Brokers bring market insights, established networks, and negotiation skills to the table. For example, IPv4.Global has facilitated the sale of over 55 million addresses and generated $800 million for clients since 2014. This highlights the value of working with professionals.
"A broker acts as the essential lubricant for the frictional market, greatly streamlining the previously-cumbersome process of pairing buyers and sellers together."
- IPv4.Global Staff
When choosing a broker, prioritize those offering a full suite of services, from market analysis and contract negotiation to technical assistance with address transfers. Their expertise can make the entire process smoother and more efficient.
Escrow services are equally critical. These services hold funds securely until the IPv4 block transfer is completed and verified by the relevant Regional Internet Registry (RIR). Companies like Escrow.com specialize in handling these transactions, providing a layer of security for both buyers and sellers. Using escrow services not only reduces risks but also builds trust, which can lead to better terms from sellers.
Speed is another key factor in IPv4 negotiations. Establishing relationships with brokers and escrow services ahead of time allows you to act quickly when opportunities arise, giving you a competitive edge in this ever-changing market.
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Structuring Deals for Long-Term Value
When structuring IPv4 deals, it’s not just about locking in today’s best prices – it’s about setting up for future success. The way you approach these agreements can shape your negotiation leverage down the road and streamline the integration of assets. By embedding thoughtful terms into your contracts, you can minimize risks and open the door to long-term advantages.
Negotiating Bulk Discounts
Buying in bulk often means paying less per address. The IPv4 market consistently rewards larger purchases with better pricing, making bulk negotiations a smart move for those focused on cost efficiency.
For example, in 2022, individual IPv4 addresses were priced between $45 and $60, while a /16 block – containing 65,536 addresses – sold for around $330,000. That’s about $5.04 per address, a significant discount compared to smaller purchases.
The same principle applies to leasing. A /24 block (256 addresses) typically costs $100 to $150 per month, translating to $0.39–$0.59 per IP. In contrast, a /20 block (4,096 addresses) costs $1,200 to $1,800 monthly, or $0.29–$0.44 per IP. Sellers also tend to favor bulk transactions because they reduce administrative tasks and provide immediate liquidity. Longer lease terms can further sweeten the deal with additional discounts.
By negotiating package deals, you can not only secure better pricing but also simplify transfers and cut down on overall costs.
Including Future Purchase Options
Future purchase options are a strategic way to safeguard against IPv4 scarcity while keeping your growth plans flexible. For example, including a right of first refusal in your contract ensures you’ll have priority access to additional inventory when the seller decides to release it. To avoid disputes down the line, these options should include clear pricing mechanisms tied to market indices or pre-agreed formulas.
It’s also smart to define specific timeframes – such as 30 to 90 days – for exercising these options. This allows you to hedge against potential price increases.
For businesses with evolving needs, consider structuring graduated purchase options. For instance, you could secure rights to additional /22 blocks at set intervals, with pricing linked to your initial purchase rate plus a modest escalation factor.
Adding SLA Clauses to Address Risks
Service Level Agreement (SLA) clauses can help protect your investment by addressing risks tied to IPv4 transactions, especially when dealing with IP addresses that might have a problematic history.
One key provision to include is a blacklist remediation guarantee. This requires sellers to resolve any issues related to past misuse within a set period, typically 30 to 90 days.
You should also include monitoring and abuse response clauses. These outline acceptable usage policies and establish clear steps for handling complaints. Such clauses should specify monitoring responsibilities, prohibited activities, and response timelines for addressing abuse. For industries like cybersecurity, where maintaining a clean IP reputation is critical, these provisions are non-negotiable.
Additionally, compliance and audit rights can shield you from unexpected penalties. Contracts should allow for regular network audits to identify conflicts or unauthorized use. Automated alert systems and clear protocols for addressing compliance violations can help you catch and resolve issues before they escalate.
For businesses requiring more specialized support, partnering with experienced IPv4 management providers can be a game-changer. Companies like V4 Capital Partner (https://v4-solutions.com) offer consulting and support for international transfers, helping you maximize the value of your IPv4 investments over time.
Post-Negotiation Best Practices
Negotiating a price is just the first step in the IPv4 market. The real work begins with implementing a strategy that ensures smooth integration of your newly acquired IPv4 addresses while setting yourself up for future opportunities. Proper execution after the deal is crucial to maintaining value and avoiding network disruptions.
Coordinating Address Integration
Integrating new IPv4 addresses into your network requires close collaboration between your procurement team and network administrators. Start by reviewing your network architecture to determine where the new addresses will fit best. Then, handle the technical setup: configure route objects, reverse DNS (rDNS), router settings, subnet masks, gateways, DHCP, and firewall rules. Add the new addresses to routing tables and DNS settings, initiate a BGP session with your upstream provider or contact your ISP, and thoroughly test the setup. Use IPAM tools to document every step, and ensure all internal teams are informed of the changes.
Security is a key consideration during this process. Update firewalls and intrusion detection systems to cover the new IP ranges. Implement network segmentation and access control policies to keep your network secure.
Once your integration is complete, turn your focus to staying informed about market developments.
Monitoring Market Trends
Keeping an eye on market trends helps you validate your pricing decisions and identify future opportunities. Recent data shows that IPv4 sale prices have dropped by 14%, while lease costs tend to lag behind price increases by 6–8 months. Pay attention to demand indicators and IPv6 adoption rates to plan your next moves strategically.
Price trends also vary by block size. Larger subnets like /16s have held steady at over $50 per IP, while smaller blocks (/17s to /24s) have seen declines of 20% to 40%. By December 2024, prices for these smaller blocks had stabilized, ranging between $32 and $36 per address.
Market activity is also on the rise, with transfer requests increasing from an average of 134 in 2022 to 141 in 2023 – a 5% jump. Additionally, government funding initiatives like ACAM and BEAD can drive unexpected spikes in demand.
"Можно было бы подумать, что компании,"Можно было бы подумать, что компании, использующие неиспользуемые IP-ресурсы, будут либо монетизировать, либо продавать их, но этого не произошло. На самом деле, по-прежнему существует более 800 миллионов неиспользуемых IP-адресов, в основном принадлежащих компаниям, которые получили ресурсы, когда нехватка IPv4 не была проблемой. С другой стороны, новые компании страдают от нехватки IPv4." использующие неиспользуемые IP-ресурсы, будут либо монетизировать, либо продавать их, но этого не произошло. На самом деле, по-прежнему существует более 800 миллионов неиспользуемых IP-адресов, в основном принадлежащих компаниям, которые получили ресурсы, когда нехватка IPv4 не была проблемой. С другой стороны, новые компании страдают от нехватки IPv4."
- Paulius Judickas, VP of Strategic Sales, IPXO
Diversifying IPv4 Portfolios
Managing your IPv4 portfolio actively and diversifying your holdings can give you a strategic edge in this competitive market. Spread your investments across different block sizes and consider collaborative resource-sharing opportunities. Establish clear agreements for usage rights and financial terms, integrate IPAM systems to avoid conflicts, and perform regular audits to reclaim underutilized addresses.
Collaborative IP utilization is another effective strategy. Partnering with other organizations can help you share resources, cut costs, and improve availability. When entering such partnerships, focus on aligning needs, maintaining transparency, adhering to policies, and ensuring technical compatibility.
Another option is the Bring Your Own IP (BYOIP) model, where you use your own IP address blocks within cloud environments, ISPs, or data centers. This approach gives you greater control over IP reputation and security policies while allowing seamless migrations between providers.
Diversifying your portfolio isn’t just about minimizing risks – it’s about staying flexible. A well-structured portfolio enables you to adapt to changing business needs, seize market opportunities, and navigate technological shifts, all while reinforcing the favorable terms you secured during negotiations.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways for Successful IPv4 Negotiations
Succeeding in IPv4 negotiations requires careful preparation, clear execution, and ongoing management after the deal is closed. Each step is essential to achieving favorable terms and maximizing the value of your IPv4 assets.
Understanding market trends is a critical part of the process. Factors like regional price variations and the growing influence of IPv6 adoption can shape your strategy. Verifying the quality of IPv4 addresses to avoid blacklisted blocks is equally important. Additionally, familiarizing yourself with Regional Internet Registry (RIR) transfer processes and budgeting for associated fees ensures smoother transactions.
Strong negotiation skills can turn a good deal into an excellent one. The IPv4 market moves quickly, so being ready to act decisively is key. Partnering with experienced IP brokers can offer valuable insights into current trends and help you navigate the complexities of the market. Flexibility in block sizes and a solid grasp of pricing trends also enable you to make competitive offers.
Recent data highlights the market’s volatility. Transfer volumes have surged, with global non-merger and acquisition transfers increasing by roughly 35% in recent years.
"AI is influencing the market, and more requests are coming from AI companies to collect data." – Paulius Judickas, VP of Strategic Alliances at IPXO
For long-term success, continuous market monitoring and diversification of your IPv4 portfolio are crucial. Regular assessments can help you identify opportunities for renegotiation and adapt to changing conditions.
Current market conditions reflect both opportunities and challenges. Smaller IPv4 blocks are trading at approximately $33 per address, while larger blocks command prices in the low $40 range. Leasing remains a cost-effective option for organizations not yet ready to transition fully to IPv6, with monthly rates between $0.35 and $0.45 per address.
Ultimately, balancing immediate needs with long-term planning is the key to sustainable success. Whether you’re purchasing or leasing, think about how IPv4 addresses align with your broader network strategy and IPv6 migration goals. Stay informed, remain adaptable, and approach negotiations as strategic investments in your organization’s digital future. By applying these strategies, you strengthen your ability to manage digital assets and support your organization’s growth in an evolving technological landscape.
Часто задаваемые вопросы
When is the best time for businesses to buy IPv4 addresses, considering market price changes?
To figure out the right time to buy IPv4 addresses, businesses need to keep an eye on market trends and consider key factors like supply, demand, and the cost of different block sizes. Right now, prices usually fall between $35 and $52 per address, but these numbers can shift depending on things like regional demand, how quickly IPv6 is being adopted, and any changes in regulations.
Partnering with skilled IPv4 brokers can make a big difference. They bring a deep understanding of market behavior and can help you determine the best time to make a purchase. With their tailored advice, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the market and strike a deal that meets your needs.
What risks should I be aware of when buying IPv4 addresses from different regional registries, and how can I avoid them?
When buying IPv4 addresses from different Regional Internet Registries (RIRs), there are a few risks you need to watch out for. These include violating RIR policies, dealing with fraudulent sellers, or ending up with blacklisted or problematic IP addresses that could damage your operations or reputation.
To minimize these risks, take the time to do your homework. Confirm the seller is legitimate, make sure the transaction complies with the RIR’s rules, and review the IP addresses’ history to steer clear of any potential issues. Partnering with a reliable IPv4 broker, like V4 Capital Partner, can simplify the process and offer expert advice to help you complete a safe and compliant purchase.
How does the slow rollout of IPv6 affect the demand and pricing strategies for IPv4 addresses?
The ongoing hesitation to fully embrace Internet Protocol version 6 has kept the demand for IPv4 addresses strong, which in turn sustains high prices. Many businesses face compatibility issues and hefty costs when considering the switch to IPv6, making IPv4 a critical component for keeping their networks operational.
This extended dependence on IPv4 has also spurred a rise in leasing activities. Companies often see leasing as a more budget-friendly alternative to buying addresses outright. At the same time, the scarcity of IPv4 addresses fuels intense competition, driving up costs for both leasing and purchasing. As businesses gradually work toward adopting IPv6, these dynamics continue to shape the market.