How RIPE NCC Handles IPv6 Requests
As IPv6 adoption accelerates across Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Central Asia, the RIPE Network Coordination Centre (RIPE NCC) plays a central role in allocating IPv6 resources to organizations that need scalable, future-proof addressing. Understanding how RIPE NCC handles IPv6 requests helps businesses prepare proper documentation, avoid delays, and secure the address space necessary for long-term network growth.
RIPE NCC’s IPv6 policies are designed to be flexible, promoting widespread deployment while ensuring fair and responsible usage. Compared to IPv4, which is heavily restricted due to global exhaustion, IPv6 assignments follow a more streamlined process that encourages early adoption.
Who Can Request IPv6 from RIPE NCC?
Any organization that becomes an RIPE NCC member (Local Internet Registry, or LIR) can request IPv6 address space. This includes:
- ISPs
- Hosting providers
- Cloud platforms
- Enterprises expanding their internal networks
RIPE NCC encourages all new LIRs to obtain IPv6 as part of modern network deployment strategies.
The IPv6 Request and Allocation Process
Unlike IPv4, IPv6 resource requests are straightforward and do not require detailed justification of need. This is because the IPv6 address space is extremely large and designed for global scalability.
Here is how RIPE NCC handles IPv6 requests:
1. Membership Verification
Before submitting an IPv6 request, the organization must be an active RIPE NCC member. RIPE verifies:
- Legal business registration
- Payment status
- Administrative contacts
- Technical contacts
Once confirmed, the LIR can submit allocation requests through the RIPE Portal.
2. Submitting the IPv6 Request
The LIR selects the type of IPv6 allocation needed. Most organizations receive a /32 allocation, suitable for large-scale routing, customer assignments, and internal subnetting. Smaller organizations may request a /48, depending on their operational requirements.
RIPE NCC generally does not require a complex justification for IPv6. A simple statement confirming deployment intent is sufficient.
3. Policy Compliance Review
RIPE NCC checks the request against its IPv6 allocation policies:
- The applicant must plan to assign IPv6 addresses within the next 12 months.
- The request must follow hierarchical addressing guidelines.
- The LIR must agree to announce the prefix and maintain routing integrity.
If everything is in order, approval is typically fast, often within days.
4. Allocation and Registration
Once approved:
- The allocation is added to the RIPE database (RIPE WHOIS).
- The LIR becomes responsible for maintaining accurate registration data.
- Reverse DNS domains are created for the IPv6 prefix.
The organization can begin using the IPv6 block immediately for routing, customer assignments, and deployment.
5. Ongoing Responsibilities
RIPE NCC may periodically review resource usage to ensure compliance with regional policies. LIRs must maintain up-to-date RIPE database entries and follow routing best practices.
Why RIPE NCC Encourages IPv6 Adoption
IPv6 adoption benefits both network operators and the global internet ecosystem by:
- Ensuring unlimited address availability
- Supporting IoT, 5G, and large-scale cloud networks
- Reducing dependence on IPv4 markets and NAT
- Simplifying hierarchical routing and subnetting
RIPE NCC’s streamlined IPv6 policies reflect the long-term importance of making IPv6 the standard for all new deployments.
About IPv4Hub.net
While IPv6 allocation through RIPE NCC is straightforward, many businesses still rely heavily on IPv4 for compatibility and operational needs. IPv4Hub.net helps organizations secure clean, verified IPv4 blocks through transparent leasing processes. Each IPv4 range undergoes blacklist checks, reputation screening, and registry validation. IPv4Hub.net assists customers with documentation, BGP configuration, and rDNS setup, providing fast and reliable support throughout the entire IP leasing process. Their human-powered service ensures that businesses have the IPv4 resources they need while preparing for full IPv6 integration. Learn more about IPv4 solutions here.
RIPE NCC’s IPv6 request process is designed to promote growth, simplify adoption, and support long-term internet scalability. By offering generous allocations and minimal justification requirements, RIPE NCC makes it easy for network operators to deploy IPv6 across their infrastructure.
As organizations balance IPv6 expansion with ongoing IPv4 demands, partnering with trusted providers like IPv4Hub.net ensures access to clean, stable IPv4 space while building toward a fully dual-stack future.