IPv4 Address Predictions and Trends for the 2024
Get Ready for 2024: Predictions for the IPv4/IPv6 Landscape. Stay ahead with the experts at Brander Group
2024 is Evolutionary for IP Addresses
The world of IP addresses is constantly evolving, yet most of us take them for granted. As our lives become more connected and the demand for devices skyrockets, the need for IPv4 addresses remains strong. Surprisingly, many companies have yet to fully embrace IPv6. Meanwhile, the market for IPv4 addresses is booming, with prices reaching new heights.
What once was freely available has now become a valuable commodity. Growing networks are turning to the market to acquire more IPv4 addresses. The soaring prices are catching the attention of CEOs and executives. Not just a concern for network administrators anymore, IPv4 addresses are now influencing companies’ bottom lines. In response to attractive prices, many businesses are restructuring their holdings to sell unused addresses.
Here are the key IP address trends to keep an eye on in 2024
Price Convergence for IP Address Blocks
The price discrepancy between large and small IP blocks will likely decrease. Currently, larger blocks command a premium, but we anticipate prices to converge in the coming year.
Focus on Efficiency
The value of IPv4 addresses is driving network administrators to prioritize efficiency. Companies are now actively identifying and organizing their IP address holdings. Streamlining and consolidating resources will be crucial, particularly for telecoms and ISPs expanding their services.
Surge in “Bring Your Own IP”
Changes to pricing policies from AWS will make “bring your own IP” options such as those offered by Google and Amazon Cloud services more attractive. Other cloud providers are expected to follow suit, increasing demand for smaller IP blocks.
The Buzz around IPv6
Despite slow growth, the adoption of IPv6 is expected to rise in 2024. The U.S. government’s IPv6 mandate and improving equipment availability will drive demand and deployment.
Leasing IP Addresses
In 2024, leasing IP addresses will become more commonplace, especially among rural ISPs. This option allows for flexible payment plans and supports the U.S. government’s “Internet for All” initiative.
Unused Addresses from Financially-Stressed Institutions
Financially struggling educational institutions will be a future source of unused IPv4 addresses. As some schools face financial difficulties, their IP holdings may become available.
Investigation of IPv4 Holdings
Organizations will start investigating their IPv4 usage vs ownership to determine what is needed, since these assets often go unnoticed. Selling surplus IP addresses can generate a significant amount of revenue, and help the balance sheets of companies that are impacted by macroeconomic factors like higher interest rates.