IPv4 Demand Remains Resilient Despite One Down Month

The internet infrastructure and network industry consistently experiences change. Shifting government regulations, evolving technologies, and volatile pricing have all become familiar terrain for service providers and cloud operators. But even as policy uncertainty and funding delays affect the broader picture, the demand for IPv4 continues to send a strong, steady signal: the market is alive and well.

This year has already seen its fair share of friction. The $42 Billion dollar BEAD program remains in bureaucratic limbo and hardware costs are climbing due to tariffs. Yet through it all, IPv4 transfer requests have remained remarkably resilient.

To date, the average number of IPv4 transfer requests is 149 per month. That reflects a steady pace slightly higher as compared to last years145 monthly average, but still above 2023’s 141 and well ahead of 2022’s average of 134. Notably, the 149 average closely mirrors 2021’s monthly volume — the year that saw the highest IPv4 prices the market has ever recorded.

These aren’t just numbers; they’re proof of a healthy market that otherwise might seem to be declining to the naked eye. Whether it’s ISPs preparing for long-term growth, hyperscalers fortifying their AI and cloud networks, or enterprises insulating against future policy shifts, the players driving this activity aren’t hesitating, rather they are taking action. More importantly, they’re betting on IPv4 as the infrastructure currency of the future.

The current buying patterns— steady baselines with occasional bursts — is exactly what you’d expect in a maturing but mission-critical market. There’s no longer the panic buying or the price surges of early IPv4 scarcity days. Instead, there’s measured, deliberate activity from organizations that make more accurate predictions for future needs.

Despite the noise, whether it’s federal funding delays, tariff-induced cost spikes, or shifting regulatory frameworks — one truth remains: IPv4 is still the connective tissue of the internet.

As 2025 progresses, expect more of the same. Budget cycles, pricing trends, and policy developments will continue to shape the cadence of requests, but the foundation should remain quite strong. The intent is real. And the demand, regardless of what’s happening in Washington or the global economy, shows no sign of fading.