---------------------------------------------------------------------- prop-107-v001: AS number transfer policy proposal ---------------------------------------------------------------------- Author: Tomohiro Fujisaki 1. Problem statement -------------------- In the APNIC region, IPv4 transfer policy has been implemented since February 2010. On the other hand, there is no transfer policy for AS numbers, while some demands for transfers of AS numbers between AS number holders are have been observed through individual feedback to the proposal author. - There are a few requests to transfer the AS number with IPv4 address at the same time. However, currently, AS numbers are not able transfer under the transfer policy and only under M&A. - Currently, there is no policy for transfers of AS numbers between RIRs. M&A policy allows transfers of AS number only within the same RIR region. However, there are expected to be some cases where organizations wish to transfer both IPv4 address and AS number at the same time to an LIR in other RIR region. - AS number is also limited resource, and it is meaningful to promote efficient use with transfer policy. 2. Objective of policy change ----------------------------- The objective of this proposal is to allow transfer of AS numbers between organizations in the APNIC region, as well as with members of other RIRs, if a counterpart RIR has adopted an equivalent transfer policy for AS numbers. 3. Situation in other regions ----------------------------- Intra-region transfer policy: ARIN: There is a AS number transfer policy in the ARIN region. No other RIRs implement AS number transfer policy. Inter-RIR transfer policy: ARIN: There was a Recommended Draft Policy ARIN-2013-1 which allows Inter-RIR ASN transfers, but it was abandoned by ARIN AC in June 2013. (see https://www.arin.net/policy/proposals/2013_1.html) ARIN AC said the reason as follows in their statements; (see http://lists.arin.net/pipermail/arin-ppml/2013-July/027028.html) "Based on the feedback received at the ARIN 31 Public Policy Meeting, and at the Public Policy Consultation at NANOG 58, the ARIN AC voted to abandon ARIN-2013-1 "Section 8.4 Inter-RIR Transfers of ASNs". The feedback from the community indicated that many people felt the policy was unnecessary as it would have no effect until/unless another RIR expresses interest in allowing Inter-RIR ASN transfers as well. 4. Proposed policy solution ---------------------------- AS numbers may be transferred if recipient of the transfer will meets the criteria under the current APNIC policy for an assignment of AS numbers. Inter-regional AS number transfers may take place only via RIRs who agree to the transfer and share reciprocal, compatible, needs-based policies. 5. Explain the advantages of the proposal ----------------------------------------- Just like IPv4 addresses, AS numbers are finite resource. This proposal promotes efficient use of AS numbers by allowing transfers of AS numbers, which is no longer needed by the existing holders. 6. Explain the disadvantages of the proposal -------------------------------------------- No disadvantages. 7. Impact on resource holders ----------------------------- NIRs are able to choose whether or not to implement this policy. 8. References (if required) --------------------------- ARIN's AS number transfer policy: https://www.arin.net/policy/nrpm.html#eight3