______________________________________________________________________ prop-023-v001: A proposal to prevent the routing of "dark" address space ______________________________________________________________________ Proposed by: Gordon Bader Version: 1.0 Date: 4 August 2004 Introduction: "Dark" address space is unallocated IP address space. Bandwidth originating from "dark" address space should not be routed at any level. Summary: Bandwidth originating from unallocated IP address space is being used for SPAM. In addition, unallocated IP address space is being used to host websites that support SPAM. APNIC has the ability to grant IP space. Given that ability, it also has the inherent ability to remove what was granted. The implicit grant of IP space, carries with it the ability to route, and route in a "legal" manner. When "illegal" (dark address space) routing is detected, then the price should be loss of the initial grant - in this case the ability to operate which carries with it economic measures. Details: Routing tables should be configured for non routing (filtering) of unallocated IP address space as well as allocated IP address space. Traffic to and from unallocated (or allocated but unused) IP address space should be dropped as soon as recognized, thus saving bandwidth up channel. Employ the basic law - what can be given, can be taken away. APNIC should issue a warning first, followed by removal of IP space from the offending ISP or entity at what ever level. IP addresses are provided under a contract, thus using contract law, removal is possible. Pros/Cons: Pros: By adopting this policy, bandwidth utilization will be reduced. Criminal enterprises will no longer be served. Cons: Disadvantages include new routing tables of increasing complexity to handle the non routing issues associated with dark address space activities and the associated traffic generated. Effect on APNIC: Reduction in bandwidth handled and in it's associated rate of growth.