Dear SIG members,
A new version of the proposal "prop-165-v002: Provision of IPv4 Address Space
to IPv6-only Networks for Transitional Purpose" has been sent to the Policy SIG
for review.
Information about earlier versions is available from:
http://www.apnic.net/policy/proposals/prop-165
You are encouraged to express your views on the proposal:
- Do you support or oppose the proposal?
- Is there anything in the proposal that is not clear?
- What changes could be made to this proposal to make it more effective?
Please find the text of the proposal below.
Regards,
Bertrand, Shaila, and Ching-Heng
APNIC Policy SIG Chairs
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prop-165-v002: Provision of IPv4 Address Space to IPv6-only Networks for
Transitional Purpose
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Proposers: Tomohiro Fujisaki ([email protected])
Hiroki Kawabata ([email protected])
1. Problem statement
--------------------
This proposal seeks to allow organizations that meet the criteria for receiving
IPv6 address space to also receive a limited IPv4 allocation, specifically a
/24 block, upon request. The aim is to facilitate the deployment of IPv6-only
networks, which still require limited IPv4 resources for transitional purposes
such as DNS resolution.
2. Objective of policy change
-----------------------------
The proposal is based on the following considerations:
- Increasing Adoption of IPv6-Only Networks:
While IPv6-only networks are gaining traction, many essential Internet services
such as DNS, email gateways, or external monitoring still require limited IPv4
connectivity. This policy enables IPv6-only network operators to obtain minimal
IPv4 resources for such transitional needs.
- Difficulty in Meeting IPv4 Allocation Criteria:
Entities building new IPv6-only networks may find it difficult to meet current
APNIC criteria for IPv4 address allocation. Given that IPv6 allocations are
often readily granted to existing IPv4 holders, it is reasonable to offer a
reciprocal policy that provides minimal IPv4 space to new IPv6 operators.
- Paradigm Shift Towards IPv6:
APNIC policy already allows IPv6 address allocations without requiring IPv6
deployment justification from existing IPv4 holders. This proposal introduces a
similar policy in reverse, marking a step forward in aligning IPv6 and IPv4
policy frameworks and encouraging broader IPv6 deployment.
3. Situation in other regions
-----------------------------
No similar policy currently exists in other RIRs, though the operational need
for transitional IPv4 use in IPv6-only networks is recognized. This proposal
may serve as a model for other RIRs seeking to support IPv6 deployment.
4. Proposed policy solution
---------------------------
- LIRs qualifying for IPv6 initial address allocations may request an IPv4 /24.
- The IPv4 block must be used only for IPv6-only network support.
- The IPv4 block must be returned simultaneously if the IPv6 address obtained
as its basis is returned.
- The IPv4 address delegated under this proposal must be returned to APNIC once
a complete transition to an IPv6-only network has been successfully achieved.
- The IPv4 /24 obtained under this policy shall be included in the IPv4 address
space available under the final /8 policy.
- The block is non-transferable and cannot be leased.
5. Advantages / Disadvantages
-----------------------------
Advantages:
- Encourages real-world IPv6-only deployment.
- Provides practical support with minimal IPv4 resource usage.
- Aligns IPv4 and IPv6 policy logic.
Disadvantages:
- Slight increase in IPv4 allocations (limited to /24).
- Requires APNIC to enforce usage restrictions.
6. Impact on resource holders
-----------------------------
Minimal impact expected. Only a single /24 allocation per eligible IPv6 PA
applicant, with restrictions to prevent misuse.
7. References
-------------
_______________________________________________
SIG-policy - https://mailman.apnic.net/[email protected]/
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