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As the demand for IPv4 addresses continues to rise due to their scarcity, accurately tracking their market value has become essential for businesses and organizations engaging in buying, selling, or leasing IPv4 blocks. Understanding the factors that influence IPv4 pricing and monitoring market trends can help stakeholders make informed decisions and optimize their investments.
In this article, we’ll explore the key factors affecting the market value of IPv4 addresses, tools and platforms for tracking pricing trends, and best practices for staying updated in this dynamic market.
IPv4 addresses are now considered valuable assets due to the depletion of available blocks and the slow transition to IPv6. Tracking their market value is crucial for several reasons:
The market value of IPv4 addresses is influenced by several dynamic factors:
Smaller blocks, such as /24, tend to have higher per-IP prices due to their suitability for smaller networks. Larger blocks, such as /16, offer economies of scale, resulting in lower per-IP costs.
Block Size | Number of IPs | Average Price per IP (2024) |
/24 | 256 IPs | $30–$35 |
/22 | 1024 IPs | $28–$32 |
/20 | 4096 IPs | $25–$30 |
The availability and demand for IPv4 addresses vary across regions. Regions with high internet adoption and business activity, such as North America and Europe, typically have higher prices.
Region | Average Price per IP | Key Factors |
North America | $30–$35 | High demand, mature market |
Europe | $28–$32 | High demand, flexible transfers |
Asia-Pacific | $32–$40 | Growing demand, limited supply |
Africa | $25–$30 | Lower demand, emerging market |
Clean IP addresses that are not blacklisted or associated with malicious activity command higher prices due to their usability in network operations.
Factors such as global IPv4 depletion rates, economic conditions, and internet adoption trends influence pricing. For example:
Several tools and platforms provide insights into IPv4 pricing trends, demand, and availability:
Regional Internet Registries (RIRs) such as ARIN, RIPE NCC, and APNIC provide marketplaces for IPv4 transactions. These platforms offer transparency in pricing and transaction volumes.
RIR | Services Provided | Key Benefits |
ARIN | Facilitates IPv4 transfers and listings | Transparent and secure transactions |
RIPE NCC | Provides transfer statistics and broker guidance | Helps users identify reliable brokers |
APNIC | Hosts an IPv4 marketplace | Supports dynamic market engagement |
Reputable IPv4 brokers provide real-time market insights, pricing data, and transaction support. Examples include:
Platforms such as IP Address Marketplaces and pricing reports from brokers provide detailed insights into market trends.
WHOIS tools allow you to verify the ownership and status of IPv4 blocks, which can influence their market value.
Aspect | Leasing | Buying |
Upfront Cost | Minimal | High (one-time payment) |
Cost per IP (/24) | $0.40–$0.60 per month | $30–$35 (one-time purchase) |
Flexibility | High (short-term commitments) | Low (long-term commitment) |
Ownership | No | Yes |
Scalability | Easy to adjust leased IPs | Limited to purchased block size |
Regularly check IPv4 brokers for updated pricing trends and availability. Many brokers provide periodic market reports detailing price fluctuations.
RIRs publish transfer statistics and pricing data, offering insights into regional pricing dynamics. Use this information to compare prices across different regions.
Leverage tools or services that provide notifications on significant price changes or new IPv4 blocks entering the market.
Read industry reports and analyses from reputable sources such as IPXO, IPv4.Global, and Hilco Streambank. These reports provide comprehensive overviews of market trends.
Engage with IPv4 brokers or consultants for tailored advice based on your specific needs and market conditions.
Challenge | Impact | Solution |
Lack of Standardized Pricing | Prices vary across brokers and regions. | Use multiple sources for price comparison. |
Dynamic Market Conditions | Prices fluctuate due to demand and availability. | Monitor market trends regularly. |
Hidden Costs | Brokers may include undisclosed fees. | Request transparent pricing breakdowns. |
Regional Restrictions | Some regions have strict transfer policies. | Understand RIR-specific rules. |
Tracking the market value of IPv4 addresses is essential for businesses navigating the evolving landscape of IPv4 scarcity. By understanding the factors influencing pricing, leveraging reliable tools, and staying informed about market trends, organizations can make smarter decisions when buying, selling, or leasing IPv4 blocks.
Whether you’re seeking short-term scalability through leasing or long-term ownership via purchasing, staying updated on market dynamics will help you secure fair deals and optimize your investment in this critical resource.
Alexei Krylov Nikiforov
Sales manager
Alexei Krylov Nikiforov
Sales manager