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prop-165-v001: Provision of IPv4 Address Space to IPv6-only Networks for Transitional Purpose

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Proposers: Tomohiro Fujisaki (fujisaki.tomohiro@gmail.com)
           Hiroki Kawabata (kawabata@nic.ad.jp)


1. Problem statement
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This proposal seeks to allow organizations that meet the criteria for receiving IPv6 Provider 
Aggregatable (PA) address space to also receive a limited IPv4 allocation, specifically a /24 
block, upon request. The aim is to facilitate the deployment of IPv6-only networks, which still 
require limited IPv4 resources for transitional purposes such as DNS resolution.


2. Objective of policy change
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The proposal is based on the following considerations:
•	Increasing Adoption of IPv6-Only Networks:
While IPv6-only networks are gaining traction, many essential Internet services—such as DNS, 
email gateways, or external monitoring—still require limited IPv4 connectivity. This policy enables 
IPv6-only network operators to obtain minimal IPv4 resources for such transitional needs.

•	Difficulty in Meeting IPv4 Allocation Criteria:
Entities building new IPv6-only networks may find it difficult to meet current APNIC criteria for IPv4 
address allocation. Given that IPv6 allocations are often readily granted to existing IPv4 holders, it 
is reasonable to offer a reciprocal policy that provides minimal IPv4 space to new IPv6 operators.

•	Paradigm Shift Towards IPv6:
APNIC policy already allows IPv6 address allocations without requiring IPv6 deployment justification from 
existing IPv4 holders. This proposal introduces a similar policy in reverse, marking a step forward in 
aligning IPv6 and IPv4 policy frameworks and encouraging broader IPv6 deployment.


3. Situation in other regions
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No similar policy currently exists in other RIRs, though the operational need for transitional IPv4 
use in IPv6-only networks is recognized. This proposal may serve as a model for other RIRs seeking to 
support IPv6 deployment.


4. Proposed policy solution
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- Organizations qualifying for IPv6 PA allocations may request an IPv4 /24.
- Allocation is only for IPv6 PA holders (not PI).
- The IPv4 block must be used only for IPv6-only network support.
- The block is non-transferable and cannot be leased.
- Additional usage restrictions apply in accordance with current APNIC policies.


5. Advantages / Disadvantages
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Advantages:
- Encourages real-world IPv6-only deployment.
- Provides practical support with minimal IPv4 resource usage.
- Aligns IPv4 and IPv6 policy logic.

Disadvantages:
- Slight increase in IPv4 allocations (limited to /24).
- Requires APNIC to enforce usage restrictions.


6. Impact on resource holders
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Minimal impact expected. Only a single /24 allocation per eligible IPv6 PA applicant, with restrictions to prevent misuse.


7. References
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