Guide LIR •

Becoming a RIPE LIR: Setup & Management

A comprehensive guide to becoming a RIPE NCC Local Internet Registry (LIR), covering the complete setup process, requirements, costs, resource allocation, ongoing management, and best practices for successful LIR operations.

Becoming a RIPE LIR: Setup & Management

Becoming a Local Internet Registry (LIR) with RIPE NCC is a significant step for organizations that need to manage IP address resources independently. Whether you're an Internet Service Provider, hosting company, large enterprise, or managed service provider, LIR membership provides direct access to IP address allocations, autonomous system numbers (ASNs), and the authority to assign these resources to your customers or infrastructure.

This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about becoming and operating as a RIPE LIR, from initial assessment through ongoing management and compliance.

What is a RIPE LIR?

A Local Internet Registry (LIR) is an organization that receives allocations of Internet number resources (IP addresses and ASNs) from RIPE NCC and assigns these resources to end users or uses them for its own infrastructure.

RIPE NCC (Réseaux IP Européens Network Coordination Centre) is the Regional Internet Registry (RIR) responsible for:

  • Europe
  • Middle East
  • Parts of Central Asia

As an LIR member of RIPE NCC, your organization gains:

  • Direct IP resource allocations - IPv4 and IPv6 address space
  • ASN assignments - Autonomous System Numbers for BGP routing
  • Resource assignment authority - Ability to assign addresses to customers
  • Provider independence - Portable IP addresses not tied to any ISP
  • Community participation - Voice in Internet governance and policy development
  • Training and support - Free education, certifications, and technical assistance

For a detailed explanation of what LIRs are and how they fit into the Internet infrastructure, see our article: What is a Local Internet Registry?

Is Becoming an LIR Right for You?

Before starting the LIR application process, assess whether membership aligns with your organization's needs and capabilities.

Organizations That Should Consider LIR Membership

Internet Service Providers (ISPs)

  • Need to assign IP addresses to customers
  • Want provider-independent address space
  • Require flexibility to change upstream providers
  • Plan to offer multi-homing services

Hosting and Cloud Providers

  • Provide portable IP addresses to customers
  • Offer colocation or dedicated server services
  • Need control over IP resource management
  • Want to differentiate services with IP flexibility

Telecommunications Companies

  • Operate large-scale network infrastructure
  • Provide IP services to business customers
  • Need multiple ASNs for complex routing
  • Manage diverse network services

Large Enterprises

  • Operate extensive global network infrastructure
  • Need provider-independent addressing
  • Want direct control over IP resources
  • Have complex, multi-provider network architectures

Managed Service Providers

  • Provide comprehensive network services to clients
  • Want to offer IP resource management services
  • Can monetize LIR capabilities through client services
  • Need flexibility for diverse customer requirements

When LIR Membership Makes Sense

Consider becoming an LIR if you:

  • Regularly need to assign IP addresses to customers or infrastructure
  • Provide Internet or hosting services requiring portable addresses
  • Want maximum control over your IP resources and routing policies
  • Can justify the costs through business value or revenue generation
  • Have technical capability to manage resources and maintain compliance
  • Plan for growth requiring increasing IP address resources
  • Need multiple ASNs for complex routing architectures
  • Want to offer sponsoring services for PI resources to clients

When Alternatives Might Be Better

Consider alternatives like PI resources if you:

  • Are primarily an end user without downstream customers
  • Have stable, predictable IP resource needs
  • Want to minimize administrative complexity
  • Need to control costs more tightly
  • Don't plan to assign addresses to external parties
  • Prefer outsourcing RIR relationship management

For a detailed comparison to help you decide, see: LIR vs PI: Which is Right for You?

Requirements for Becoming a RIPE LIR

Legal Requirements

1. Legal Entity Status

  • Must be a legally established organization (company, association, foundation, etc.)
  • Registered in the RIPE NCC service region (Europe, Middle East, Central Asia)
  • Provide official company registration documents
  • Have a valid business registration number

2. Physical Presence

  • Maintain a registered business address in the RIPE service region
  • Cannot use P.O. boxes as primary address
  • Must be reachable at the registered address
  • Provide proof of business premises if requested

3. Legal Authority

  • Person signing the agreement must have authority to bind the organization
  • May require board resolution or power of attorney
  • Company directors or authorized signatories

Technical Requirements

1. Technical Competence

  • Demonstrate ability to manage IP resources
  • Have staff with appropriate networking knowledge
  • Understand IP addressing, subnetting, and routing basics
  • Capable of maintaining RIPE Database entries

2. Network Infrastructure

  • Have operational or planned network infrastructure requiring IP resources
  • Provide network architecture details
  • Document addressing plans
  • Show how resources will be used

3. Addressing Plan

  • Detailed plan for using allocated IP resources
  • Justification for resource sizes needed
  • Growth projections for future needs
  • Efficient resource utilization strategy

Financial Requirements

2025 Costs:

  • Sign-up fee: €1,000 (one-time, per LIR account)
  • Annual membership fee: €1,800 (pro-rated for first year)
  • ASN assignment fee: €50 per ASN per year
  • PI sponsorship fee: €75 per PI resource per year

Payment Terms:

  • Payment due within 30 days of invoice
  • Annual billing cycle
  • Pro-rated fees for partial years
  • Various payment methods accepted

For a complete cost analysis and ROI evaluation, see: RIPE LIR Membership Costs and Benefits

Operational Requirements

1. Ongoing Obligations

  • Maintain accurate registration data in RIPE Database
  • Respond to RIPE NCC communications and audits
  • Follow all RIPE policies and procedures
  • Pay annual fees on time
  • Keep contact information current

2. Compliance Capacity

  • Ability to handle abuse reports promptly
  • Resources for database maintenance
  • Staff time for audit responses
  • Process for maintaining compliance

For detailed information on compliance obligations, see: Compliance Requirements for LIRs

The LIR Application Process

Step 1: Prepare Your Documentation

Required Documents:

Company Registration Documents:

  • Certificate of incorporation or equivalent
  • Extract from commercial register
  • Articles of association (if requested)
  • Proof of registration number

Authority Documentation:

  • Board resolution authorizing LIR membership
  • Power of attorney for signatory (if needed)
  • Identification for authorized signatory

Technical Documentation:

  • Network topology diagram
  • Addressing plan and justification
  • Description of services offered
  • Infrastructure details

Business Information:

  • Company profile and business description
  • Contact information for key personnel
  • Billing and payment details

Preparation Tips:

  • Gather documents early - some may take time to obtain
  • Ensure documents are current (issued within last 6-12 months)
  • Have certified translations for non-English documents if required
  • Organize systematically for easy submission

Step 2: Create a RIPE NCC Access Account

Before applying for LIR membership, you need a RIPE NCC Access account:

  1. Visit the RIPE NCC Access registration page

  2. Provide personal information:

    • Full name
    • Email address
    • Phone number
    • Organizational affiliation

  3. Verify your email address

  4. Complete your profile

  5. Set up two-factor authentication (recommended)

This account will become your administrator account for the LIR Portal once membership is approved.

Step 3: Submit Your LIR Application

Application Submission:

  1. Log into RIPE NCC Access with your account

  2. Navigate to "Become a Member" section

  3. Complete the online application form:

    • Organization details
    • Contact information
    • Intended use of resources
    • Addressing requirements

  4. Upload required documents:

    • Company registration
    • Authorization documents
    • Technical documentation
    • Any additional materials

  5. Nominate your initial LIR Portal administrator (usually yourself)

  6. Review and confirm all information

  7. Submit the application

What Happens Next:

  • You receive confirmation of submission
  • RIPE NCC assigns a ticket number
  • Application enters evaluation queue
  • RIPE NCC contacts you if additional information needed

Step 4: RIPE NCC Evaluation

Evaluation Process:

Initial Review (1-3 business days):

  • RIPE NCC checks completeness of application
  • Verifies all required documents provided
  • May request clarifications or additional documents
  • Confirms legal and technical requirements met

Document Verification (2-5 business days):

  • Validates company registration documents
  • Checks authorization and signatory authority
  • Verifies business address and contact details
  • May conduct additional due diligence

Technical Assessment (1-2 business days):

  • Reviews addressing plan and justification
  • Assesses technical competence
  • Evaluates intended resource usage
  • Confirms legitimate networking purpose

Final Approval:

  • All requirements satisfied
  • Application approved for membership
  • Membership agreement sent for signature

Total Timeline: Typically 1-2 weeks for straightforward applications with complete documentation. Can take longer if additional information is needed or during peak periods.

Step 5: Sign the Membership Agreement

Agreement Process:

  1. Receive draft agreement via email and LIR Portal

  2. Review carefully:

    • Membership terms and conditions
    • Fee structure and payment terms
    • Rights and obligations
    • Data protection provisions
    • Termination clauses

  3. Sign the agreement:

    • Electronic signature through Portal (preferred)
    • Or print, sign manually, and return scanned copy
    • Must be signed by authorized signatory

  4. RIPE NCC countersigns

  5. Membership becomes active

Step 6: Initial Payment

First Invoice:

  • Sent immediately after agreement signing
  • Includes sign-up fee (€1,000)
  • Plus pro-rated annual membership for remainder of year
  • Due within 30 days

Payment Methods:

  • Bank transfer (most common)
  • SEPA transfer (for EU members)
  • Credit card (may be available)
  • Direct debit (in some countries)

Activation:

  • Membership activated upon payment confirmation
  • Can take 1-2 business days for payment to process
  • Full LIR Portal access granted after activation

Step 7: LIR Portal Access and Initial Setup

Once membership is active:

1. Access Your LIR Portal:

  • Log in with your RIPE NCC Access account
  • Now have administrator privileges
  • Can view your LIR account details

2. Initial Configuration:

  • Review and update organization information
  • Add additional administrator accounts
  • Set up contact roles (admin, tech, billing, abuse)
  • Configure notification preferences

3. Review Default Resources:

  • Your org-id (organization identifier)
  • Default maintainer object
  • Initial database objects

4. Complete Profile:

  • Add additional contacts
  • Update any information as needed
  • Familiarize yourself with Portal features

Requesting Your Initial Resources

IPv4 Allocation

Current Policy: Under the RIPE "Last /8" policy, new LIRs can receive:

  • One /24 allocation (256 IP addresses)
  • From the 185.0.0.0/8 address block
  • One-time allocation per LIR
  • Cannot be transferred for 2 years

Requesting Your IPv4:

  1. Navigate to "Request Resources" in LIR Portal

  2. Select "IPv4 Allocation"

  3. Confirm you meet requirements:

    • This is your first IPv4 allocation
    • You will use addresses for legitimate purposes
    • Addresses will be used within reasonable timeframe

  4. Submit request

  5. Receive allocation (typically same day)

  6. Database objects created automatically

Allocation Details:

  • Status: ALLOCATED PA (Provider Aggregatable)
  • Can be sub-allocated or assigned to customers
  • Can be used for your own infrastructure
  • Subject to RIPE policies for proper usage

Important Notes:

  • No additional IPv4 allocations available from RIPE NCC
  • Additional IPv4 must be acquired through transfer market
  • Use your /24 wisely - it's likely all you'll get for free

IPv6 Allocation

Standard Allocation: New LIRs typically receive a /32 IPv6 allocation, which provides:

  • 4,294,967,296 /64 networks
  • Essentially unlimited addresses for most organizations
  • Room for significant growth

Requesting Your IPv6:

  1. Navigate to "Request Resources" in LIR Portal

  2. Select "IPv6 Allocation"

  3. Provide addressing plan:

    • Current infrastructure size
    • Planned network architecture
    • Assignment strategy
    • Growth projections for 2 years

  4. Justify allocation size:

    • /32 is standard for most organizations
    • Larger allocations (/29, /28, etc.) available with justification
    • Document why you need more than /32 if applicable

  5. Submit request

  6. RIPE NCC evaluates (typically 2-5 business days)

  7. Receive allocation

Using Your IPv6:

  • Assign generously (use /48 or /56 per customer)
  • Don't apply IPv4 conservation mindset
  • Plan for dual-stack deployment
  • Encourage IPv6 adoption

Additional IPv6:

  • Can request more when 50% utilized
  • Or with justified immediate need
  • Typically results in doubling of allocation
  • Much easier than IPv4 to expand

Requesting an ASN

If you need an Autonomous System Number for BGP routing:

Requirements:

  • Unique routing policy different from upstream providers
  • At least one existing or planned BGP peering relationship
  • Technical capability to manage BGP
  • Justified need for ASN

Request Process:

  1. Prepare documentation:

    • Routing policy description
    • BGP peering details (current or planned)
    • Network topology
    • Justification for ASN need

  2. Submit ASN request through LIR Portal

  3. Provide technical details:

    • Peering arrangements
    • Multi-homing plans
    • Routing architecture

  4. RIPE NCC evaluates technical justification

  5. Receive ASN assignment (typically 3-5 business days)

  6. Create aut-num object in RIPE Database

  7. Begin using for BGP routing

Annual Fee:

  • €50 per ASN per year (as of 2025)
  • Billed separately or with annual membership
  • Can request multiple ASNs with separate justifications

Setting Up Your LIR Operations

Establishing Database Management

Understanding the RIPE Database: The RIPE Database is the public registry of Internet number resources in the RIPE NCC service region. You must maintain accurate information about all your resources and assignments.

Initial Database Objects: When your membership is established, RIPE NCC creates:

  • Organisation object (org-id) representing your LIR
  • Maintainer object (mntner) for authentication
  • Person/role objects for your contacts
  • Resource objects (inetnum, inet6num, aut-num) for your allocations

Database Management Tools:

  • Webupdates: Web interface for creating/updating objects
  • Email updates: Send properly formatted objects via email
  • RESTful API: Programmatic access for automation
  • Syncupdates: Synchronous updates via HTTPS

Key Objects You'll Manage:

inetnum / inet6num (IP ranges):

  • Your allocations from RIPE NCC
  • Assignments to customers
  • Sub-allocations to downstream networks
  • Infrastructure assignments

aut-num (ASNs):

  • Your AS number assignments
  • Routing policy information
  • Peering relationships

person / role:

  • Contact information
  • Admin, tech, abuse contacts
  • Must be kept current

For detailed guidance on database management, see: Managing Your RIPE LIR Account

Implementing Abuse Handling

Abuse Contact Requirement: Every LIR must maintain a responsive abuse contact for handling abuse reports.

Setting Up Abuse Handling:

  1. Create dedicated abuse email (e.g., abuse@yourdomain.com)

  2. Configure abuse role object in RIPE Database

  3. Link abuse-c to all your resource objects

  4. Establish monitoring of abuse mailbox

  5. Define abuse response procedures:

    • Acknowledgment within 24 hours
    • Investigation process
    • Action and remediation procedures
    • Follow-up and closure

  6. Train staff on abuse handling

  7. Document processes and maintain records

Abuse Contact Validation:

  • RIPE NCC periodically tests abuse contacts
  • Must respond appropriately to validation tests
  • Failure triggers compliance procedures
  • Maintain responsiveness at all times

Establishing Assignment Procedures

If you'll be assigning IP addresses to customers:

Assignment Documentation:

  • Customer organization details
  • Justification for address space
  • Intended usage
  • Assignment date
  • Service agreement references

Database Registration:

  • Create organization object for customer
  • Create inetnum/inet6num for assignment
  • Set status to ASSIGNED PA
  • Link to customer organization
  • Include all required contacts

Internal Processes:

  • Request and approval workflow
  • Justification evaluation
  • Technical implementation
  • Documentation and record-keeping
  • RIPE Database updates

Best Practices:

  • Document everything for potential audits
  • Assign based on demonstrated need
  • Use appropriate subnet sizes
  • Maintain efficient utilization
  • Keep internal records matching RIPE Database

Implementing Compliance Procedures

Regular Maintenance:

  • Monthly database accuracy reviews
  • Quarterly self-audits
  • Contact information verification
  • Resource utilization tracking
  • Documentation organization

Audit Preparedness:

  • Maintain assignment documentation
  • Keep justification records
  • Organize for easy retrieval
  • Respond promptly to audit requests
  • Implement findings and recommendations

Staff Training:

  • RIPE policies and procedures
  • Database management
  • Compliance requirements
  • Abuse handling
  • Best practices

For comprehensive compliance guidance, see: Compliance Requirements for LIRs

Ongoing LIR Management

Regular Operational Tasks

Daily:

  • Monitor abuse contact email
  • Address urgent abuse reports
  • Check LIR Portal notifications
  • Handle critical tickets

Weekly:

  • Process resource requests
  • Update database for changes
  • Review pending tickets
  • Coordinate with team on issues

Monthly:

  • Database accuracy review
  • Contact verification
  • Resource utilization analysis
  • Financial review and payments
  • Team meetings and planning

Quarterly:

  • Comprehensive self-audit
  • Compliance assessment
  • Documentation updates
  • Training and knowledge sharing
  • Process improvement review

Annually:

  • Budget planning and approval
  • Strategic resource planning
  • Full compliance audit
  • Policy and procedure updates
  • Staff certifications and training

Financial Management

Annual Fees:

  • Annual membership: €1,800
  • ASN fees: €50 per ASN
  • PI sponsorship fees: €75 per resource
  • Budget and plan for these costs

Payment Tracking:

  • Set reminders for due dates
  • Use automatic payment methods
  • Keep billing contact current
  • Review invoices for accuracy
  • Maintain payment records

Cost Recovery:

  • If assigning to customers, include costs in service pricing
  • Consider sponsoring LIR services as revenue source
  • Calculate total cost of ownership including internal costs

Community Participation

RIPE Meetings:

  • Bi-annual RIPE meetings (spring and fall)
  • Two free tickets included with membership
  • Networking opportunities
  • Technical presentations and workshops
  • Policy discussions

Mailing Lists:

  • Subscribe to relevant lists
  • Participate in technical discussions
  • Stay informed about policy proposals
  • Contribute to community knowledge

Working Groups:

  • Join working groups relevant to your interests
  • Address Policy Working Group
  • Database Working Group
  • Anti-Abuse Working Group
  • Others as applicable

Policy Development:

  • Review policy proposals
  • Provide feedback during comment periods
  • Participate in consensus building
  • Vote in General Meetings

Training and Development

RIPE NCC Training:

  • LIR Training Courses (free)
  • IPv6 training and workshops
  • RIPE Database courses
  • Security training
  • Online webinars

Certifications:

  • RIPE NCC Certified Professionals
  • Free or discounted certification vouchers
  • Continuing education
  • Professional development

Knowledge Management:

  • Document internal procedures
  • Cross-train multiple staff
  • Maintain institutional knowledge
  • Regular team training sessions

Common Challenges and Solutions

Challenge 1: IPv4 Scarcity

Problem: The /24 IPv4 allocation may not be sufficient for your needs.

Solutions:

  • Optimize usage: Use smallest appropriate subnet sizes
  • IPv6 migration: Implement dual-stack and encourage IPv6 adoption
  • IPv4 transfers: Purchase additional IPv4 on transfer market
  • NAT and sharing: Use carrier-grade NAT or IPv4 sharing techniques
  • Efficient allocation: Assign based on strict demonstrated need

Challenge 2: Database Complexity

Problem: RIPE Database management can be complex and error-prone.

Solutions:

  • Training: Take RIPE Database courses
  • IPAM tools: Use IP address management software
  • Templates: Create standard object templates
  • Automation: Use API for routine updates
  • Documentation: Maintain clear procedures
  • Expert help: Consider managed services or consulting

Challenge 3: Compliance Burden

Problem: Meeting ongoing compliance requirements takes significant time and effort.

Solutions:

  • Proactive management: Stay ahead of requirements
  • Automation: Automate compliance checks where possible
  • Staff allocation: Dedicate resources to compliance
  • Regular reviews: Don't let issues accumulate
  • Professional services: Consider outsourcing compliance tasks

Challenge 4: Abuse Handling

Problem: Responding to abuse reports requires constant attention.

Solutions:

  • Dedicated resources: Assign staff to abuse handling
  • Ticketing systems: Implement proper tracking
  • Clear procedures: Define response workflows
  • Customer education: Teach customers about acceptable use
  • Proactive monitoring: Detect and address abuse before complaints
  • Documentation: Keep records of all cases

Challenge 5: Cost Justification

Problem: LIR membership costs may be difficult to justify to management.

Solutions:

  • ROI analysis: Calculate value of IPv4 allocation alone
  • Business enablement: Demonstrate services that require LIR status
  • Revenue generation: Monetize through sponsoring services
  • Cost recovery: Include in customer pricing
  • Strategic value: Emphasize provider independence and flexibility

Alternatives and Complementary Approaches

Managed LIR Services

If you want LIR resources without full operational burden, consider managed LIR services:

What's Provided:

  • Expert handling of database management
  • Compliance monitoring and audit support
  • Resource request processing
  • Abuse contact services
  • Technical consultation

When to Consider:

  • Limited internal technical resources
  • Want to focus on core business
  • Need expertise during startup phase
  • Prefer outsourcing administrative tasks

Via-Registry Managed LIR Services: Via-Registry offers comprehensive managed LIR services to help organizations get the benefits of LIR membership without the operational complexity. Contact us to discuss your needs.

Sponsoring LIR Services

As an LIR, you can sponsor PI resources for other organizations:

Business Opportunity:

  • Offer PI sponsorship as a service to customers
  • Charge annual fee for sponsorship
  • Provide value-added services around IP resources
  • Generate recurring revenue

Requirements:

  • Handle RIPE Database updates for customer
  • Coordinate PI resource requests
  • Manage annual fees (€75 per resource to RIPE NCC)
  • Maintain sponsorship relationship

Transitioning from PI to LIR

Many organizations start with PI resources and later become LIRs:

Transition Path:

  1. Begin with PI resource as end user
  2. Business grows and model changes
  3. Decide LIR membership is justified
  4. Apply for LIR membership
  5. Keep PI resources or transition to LIR allocation
  6. Use LIR capabilities for new assignments

Considerations:

  • PI resources can be retained after becoming LIR
  • May sponsor your own PI resources as LIR
  • Transition gradually as needs evolve

Getting Started with Via-Registry

Via-Registry simplifies becoming and operating as a RIPE LIR by providing:

LIR Setup Assistance

  • Application preparation and document gathering
  • Technical documentation development
  • Liaison with RIPE NCC
  • Expedited processing
  • Initial configuration support

Managed LIR Services

  • Full database management
  • Compliance monitoring and audit support
  • Abuse handling services
  • Resource request processing
  • Ongoing technical consultation

Consulting and Training

  • LIR operations training for your team
  • Policy interpretation and guidance
  • Best practices implementation
  • Process development
  • Strategic planning

Ongoing Support

  • Technical support for LIR operations
  • Compliance assistance
  • Problem resolution
  • Expert consultation
  • Community insights

Contact Via-Registry to discuss how we can help your organization become and operate successfully as a RIPE LIR.

Visit our LIR Consulting Service page to learn more about our offerings and get started today.

Conclusion

Becoming a RIPE NCC Local Internet Registry is a significant undertaking that provides valuable benefits for organizations managing IP address resources. With proper planning, adequate resources, and attention to compliance, LIR membership enables provider-independent networking, flexible resource management, and direct participation in Internet governance.

Key Success Factors:

  • Thorough preparation: Gather all required documents and information before applying
  • Adequate resources: Allocate sufficient staff time and budget for operations
  • Compliance focus: Maintain accurate data and respond promptly to requirements
  • Continuous learning: Take advantage of training and stay current with policies
  • Community engagement: Participate in RIPE meetings and working groups
  • Expert support: Don't hesitate to seek help when needed

Whether you're an ISP starting operations, a hosting provider expanding services, or an enterprise taking control of your network resources, LIR membership provides the foundation for professional, independent Internet operations.

With the information in this guide and the supporting resources provided, you're well-equipped to make an informed decision about LIR membership and successfully navigate the setup and management process.

Next Steps:

  • Review your organization's needs and readiness
  • Calculate total cost of ownership and expected ROI
  • Gather required documentation
  • Contact Via-Registry for assistance with your LIR journey
  • Submit your RIPE NCC membership application

The path to becoming a RIPE LIR is clear. With proper preparation and the right support, your organization can successfully join the community of Internet registries managing critical Internet infrastructure.

Sources:

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