IPv6 Address Allocation Management

Status of this Memo

This memo provides information for the Internet community. This memo does not specify an Internet standard of any kind. Distribution of this memo is unlimited.

Abstract

The IPv6 address space will be managed by the IANA for the good of the Internet community, with advice from the IAB and the IESG, by delegation to the regional registries.

Statement

The IPv6 address space must be managed for the good of the Internet community. Good management requires at least a small element of central authority over the delegation and allocation of the address space.

The Internet community recognizes the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA) as the appropriate entity to have the responsibility for the management of the IPv6 address space.

The IANA will rely on the advice of the Internet Architecture Board (IAB) and the Internet Engineering Steering Group (IESG) in the management of the IPv6 address space.

The IANA will delegate to regional (and other) registries the task of making specific address allocations to network service providers and other subregional registries. Individuals and organizations may obtain address allocations directly from the appropriate regional (or other) registry, or from their service provider.

Delegation of address space by the IANA is not irrevocable. If, in the judgement of the IANA, a registry has seriously mishandled the address space delegated to it, the IANA may revoke the delegation, with due notice and with due consideration of the operational implications. IANA will make every effort in such a case not to revoke addresses that are in active use, unless there are overwhelming technical reasons for doing so.

Any revenues (such as transaction fees) received with respect to the IPv6 address space should be used only for expenses related to registry activities, and not to subsidize any other activities. There will be no charges for the address space itself, only fees to recover the registry costs.

Any situation in the management of the IPv6 address space that leads to monopoly control or predatory practices must be avoided.

The IANA will develop a plan for the initial IPv6 address allocation, including a provision for the automatic allocation of IPv6 addresses to holders of IPv4 addresses. IANA will also develop mediation and appeals procedures concerning delegation and revocation.

Security Considerations

Security issues are not discussed in this memo.

Contact Information:

   Internet Architecture Board
   EMail: <iab@isi.edu>
   
   Internet Engineering Steering Group
   EMail: <iesg@cnri.reston.va.us>