The IPv4 shortage has been an ongoing issue for over a decade, and by 2025, it has reached a critical point. The number of available IPv4 addresses is quickly depleting due to the rapid expansion of connected devices, cloud services, and the growing demand for internet access across the globe. Despite the availability of IPv6, many businesses continue to rely on IPv4 because of its better compatibility, infrastructure, and lower costs. This article explains why IPv4 addresses are running out, the impact on businesses, and the steps you can take to secure the IP resources you need.
Why Are IPv4 Addresses Running Out?
IPv4, the original internet protocol introduced in the early 1980s, uses a 32-bit addressing system, allowing for around 4.3 billion unique IP addresses. At the time, this seemed like an overwhelming number, but no one anticipated the exponential growth in internet usage, connected devices, and online services. The rapid rise of smartphones, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, cloud platforms, and the overall digital transformation has drained the available pool of IPv4 addresses faster than expected.
By 2020, all five Regional Internet Registries (RIRs) — ARIN, RIPE, APNIC, LACNIC, and AFRINIC — had either run out of or nearly exhausted their IPv4 address allocations. As we approach 2025, the situation has only worsened, and businesses are increasingly forced to compete for IP addresses in the secondary market. While IPv6 adoption is growing, it is still far from ubiquitous, and many businesses, especially those with legacy systems, continue to use IPv4 for compatibility reasons. Study in detail the Scarcity & Demand of IPv4 addresses.
The Need for IPv4 in 2025
IPv4 remains a crucial part of the internet’s infrastructure, especially in industries and sectors that rely on older networks and technologies. Despite the growing deployment of IPv6, many organizations still depend on IPv4 due to its compatibility with legacy devices and systems, as well as the complex challenges involved in switching to IPv6. Thus, businesses looking to grow their networks will find themselves in need of IPv4 addresses for the foreseeable future.
The IPv4 Shortage’s Effects in 2025
The scarcity of IPv4 addresses in 2025 will continue to have significant effects on businesses of all sizes:
Rising Costs
As the availability of IPv4 addresses decreases, the cost of acquiring them has risen steadily. In 2025, the price for a single IPv4 address ranges between $35 and $50, depending on the region and the reputation of the IP block. This price increase is partly due to the limited supply and high demand, as more companies scramble to secure the addresses they need to stay connected.
Limited Access
Smaller Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and startups often struggle to get IPv4 addresses directly from the regional registries. These businesses are forced to turn to the secondary market, where they must pay higher prices or deal with unreliable sellers. For many, securing a block of IPv4 addresses has become a complex and expensive process.
Delays in Growth
Businesses planning to expand their digital infrastructure — such as launching new data centers, VPN services, or cloud instances — may face delays if there are not enough available IPv4 addresses. Without access to IPs, these businesses cannot proceed with their growth plans, hindering their ability to scale and adapt to changing market demands.
Security Risks
In some cases, companies opt to purchase cheaper IPv4 blocks from the secondary market without verifying the quality of the IP addresses. This can lead to security issues, such as buying IPs that are blacklisted or previously associated with abusive behavior. The reputation of an IPv4 block is crucial for maintaining a clean network, and failure to thoroughly vet the addresses can result in operational disruptions.
About IPv4Hub.net
As the shortage of IPv4 addresses intensifies in 2025, IPv4Hub.net offers a trusted solution for businesses seeking to lease IPv4 addresses. IPv4Hub.net connects verified lessors and lessees from around the world, providing flexible leasing options for businesses of all sizes. Whether you need a /24, /23, or /22 block, IPv4Hub.net offers fully documented IPs with SWIP, LOA, and ROA support to ensure smooth routing. Their straightforward leasing process ensures that businesses can secure clean, routable IPs quickly and efficiently, without the hassle of navigating complex transactions or worrying about IP reputation.
What Companies Can Do About the IPv4 Shortage
If your business is struggling to secure IPv4 addresses, here are some practical steps you can take:
Lease IPv4 Addresses
Leasing IPv4 addresses is a cost-effective way to gain immediate access to IP resources without the hefty upfront cost of purchasing. IPv4Hub.net and other trusted providers allow businesses to lease only what they need, with terms ranging from a few months to several years. Leasing provides the flexibility to scale your IP address resources as your business grows, while avoiding the risk of asset depreciation or the complexities of reselling addresses. Understand why companies should lease instead of buying.
Check Your Current Resources
Many businesses hold IPv4 blocks that they no longer use or underutilize. By reviewing your current IP inventory and reclaiming unused addresses, you may be able to alleviate internal shortages without needing to acquire more IPs. Subleasing unused blocks to other businesses can also generate revenue and optimize your IP resource management.
Slowly Switch to IPv6
While IPv4 is still critical, it is wise to start transitioning to dual-stack environments, where both IPv4 and IPv6 are used simultaneously. This will ensure that your business remains compatible with future internet protocols and future-proof your network infrastructure. Gradually adopting IPv6 will also help reduce reliance on IPv4 over time, alleviating pressure on the limited supply of IPv4 addresses.
Use NAT and CGNAT
Network Address Translation (NAT) and Carrier-Grade NAT (CGNAT) allow multiple devices within a private network to share a single public IPv4 address. This technique can help businesses maximize the use of their available IPv4 resources by reducing the number of IPs needed for certain network configurations.
Work with Trusted Brokers
When purchasing IPv4 addresses, it’s essential to work with trusted brokers like IPv4Hub.net to ensure the IP addresses are clean, properly transferred, and legally compliant. A reputable broker will help you navigate the complexities of acquiring IPv4 addresses and avoid potential pitfalls, such as purchasing blacklisted IPs or violating RIR rules. Learn What Makes a Broker Trustworthy
The Future: Getting Ready for a Dual-Stack World
Looking ahead, experts predict that the IPv4 shortage will continue well into the 2030s. While IPv6 adoption is on the rise, IPv4 will remain essential for internet access in the foreseeable future. Businesses that embrace a dual-stack approach, combining IPv4 leasing with IPv6 readiness, will be well-positioned for the future. Learn Why IPv4 Demand Keeps Rising Despite IPv6 Adoption
Planning ahead and securing the necessary IP resources — whether through leasing, reclaiming unused addresses, or adopting IPv6 — will help businesses stay ahead of the curve in a world where IPv4 is becoming increasingly scarce.
The 2025 IPv4 shortage highlights the challenges posed by the limited supply of IP addresses. As IPv4 becomes scarcer, businesses must take proactive steps to secure their digital infrastructure. Leasing through trusted providers like IPv4Hub.net, adopting hybrid IPv4/IPv6 networks, and properly managing IP resources will help businesses stay connected and continue to grow in an increasingly digital world. By planning ahead and securing your IP strategy now, your business will be able to adapt to the evolving internet landscape and continue thriving in the years to come.