[address-policy-wg] Principles for the use of the last IPv4 /8 address space in the RIPE NCC Region

Dear colleagues 

ETNO has prepared an Expert Contribution on the Principles for the use
of the last IPv4 /8 address space in the RIPE NCC region, based on a
previous contribution with regard to IPv4 address exhaustion presented
in the RIPE address-policy-wg mailing list in May 2008. According to
ETNO any policy proposal relevant to the use of the last IPv4 /8 address
space should satisfy the principles contained in this contribution in
order to permit both a fair and equitable use of the last IPv4 /8
address space and a flexible approach with regard to its management. 

Introduction

ETNO recognises that with the theoretical date of exhaustion of IPv4
public addresses fast approaching, principles ensuring fair and
equitable use of the last /8 address space in the RIPE NCC region are
required.  This contribution presents a number of such principles in
order to initiate such discussions that are intended to lead to a RIPE
NCC policy.

ETNO in a previous contribution with regard to IPv4 address exhaustion
identified a number of principles associated with the management of IPv4
public addresses as exhaust approached.  These principles form the basis
of the principles below as applied to the last /8 address space.  

In the development of this Expert Contribution, regarding the use of the
last IPv4/8, ETNO wants to guarantee that any policy developed is based
upon the fair and equitable allocation of address space to all LIR's,
irrespective of whether they are new or existing.

 Principles 

Demonstrated Need Allocation

Allocation of IPv4 addresses from the last IPv4 /8 should be treated the
same way for all Registries (LIR), and should be in response to their
demonstrated need.  

Pre-determined Use 

Assignment from the last IPv4 /8 should only be used to facilitate the
deployment of IPv6 Public address resource by the LIR. 

Size of Address Allocation

The size of any allocation from the last IPv4 /8 should be based upon
flexibility, recognising that it is an allocation from the last /8, and
meeting the needs of the applicant.  As a consequence the size of
address allocated may require adaptation of the current and existing
allocation rules.

Predictability of Allocation

Relevant policies associated with the allocation from the last IPv4 /8
should be announced well in advance in order to give sufficient time for
operators and ISPs through their LIRs to be prepared.  

 Conclusion

 ETNO supports the development of a RIPE policy detailing how the last
IPv4 /8 will be deployed in order to ensure clarity for all
stakeholders.  ETNO believes that the above principles should be the
basis of any RIPE policy related to the last IPv4 /8 and supported by
the implementation of appropriate measures and actions.

Christina Kelaidi
ETNO Naming Addressing and Numbering Issues (NANI) WG Chairperson

ETNO (European Telecommunications Network Operators' Association) is
representing 40 major companies from 34 European countries, providing
electronic communications networks over fixed, mobile or personal
communications systems. ETNO's primary purpose is to establish a
constructive dialogue between its member companies and actors involved
in the development of the European Information Society to the benefit of
users. More information on ETNO can be found at: www.etno.be.