How Much Does a /16 IPv4 Block Cost
A /16 IPv4 block contains 65,536 addresses — equivalent to 256 /24 blocks. This is a significant allocation typically sought by internet service providers, large enterprises, cloud platforms, and CDN operators that need large-scale IP space for their operations or customers. In 2026, /16 blocks represent a major investment in an increasingly scarce resource, and transactions at this scale involve careful due diligence on block history, RIR records, and routing policy.
Price Ranges by Tier
ARIN region /16 blocks: Historically, North American IPv4 addresses have traded at different rates than RIPE region addresses. ARIN /16 blocks can be suitable for North American operations. Per-address pricing and total transaction size varies with market conditions at the time of transaction.
RIPE region /16 blocks: European IPv4 space commands a premium due to sustained demand from EU-based service providers, CDNs, and cloud operators. A /16 in RIPE region is a significant allocation. Total transaction values are substantial. Organizations requiring European IP space for regulatory, geolocation, or network policy reasons specifically seek RIPE region inventory.
Leasing a /16: Outright purchase of a /16 requires substantial capital. Leasing allows large organizations to secure the address space they need without a single large capital outlay. Monthly lease rates for a /16 reflect the aggregate value of the 65,536 addresses and are negotiated based on duration, utilization rights, and provider.
Aggregated /16 from multiple /24 or /22 blocks: Some organizations build an effective /16 by aggregating smaller CIDR blocks. Routing announcements for disaggregated space may be filtered by some networks, which prefers contiguous allocations. True contiguous /16 blocks are rarer and more valuable than equivalent aggregate.
What Drives the Cost
At /16 scale, every variable that affects smaller block pricing is amplified. Block cleanliness becomes critical — a /16 with any significant portion of its range on major blocklists represents a major remediation project. RIPE region vs. other RIR is the biggest per-address price differentiator for European buyers. Transfer process for a /16 through RIPE NCC involves documentation requirements, waiting periods, and fees that scale with block size. The seller’s justification for release and the buyer’s demonstrated need may both factor into RIR review. Legal due diligence for a /16 purchase is not optional at this scale. Broker commissions on large IPv4 transactions typically range from 2-5% of deal value.
Price Comparison Table
| /16 Block Type | Scale | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ARIN region /16 | 65,536 addresses | Contact for quote |
| RIPE region /16 | 65,536 addresses | Contact for quote, EU premium |
| RIPE region /16 lease | Monthly arrangement | Contact for quote |
| Fragmented /16 equivalent | 256x /24 blocks | Lower routability, contact for quote |
| Contiguous RIPE /16, clean | Premium asset | Contact for quote |
DCXV /16 IPv4 Services
DCXV operates AS204057 with RIPE NCC membership and maintains relationships with IPv4 inventory across a range of block sizes. For enterprise and ISP requirements at /16 scale, DCXV can discuss both direct leasing arrangements and assist with brokered purchase transactions.
DCXV’s European data center presence in Prague (CZ), Vilnius (LT), and Covilha (PT) makes it a natural partner for organizations deploying large IPv4 allocations within European network infrastructure. Whether you are building out a new CDN node, establishing a regional ISP, or expanding cloud infrastructure requiring large IP blocks, DCXV can work with your requirements.
Contact ipv4@dcxv.com for a direct discussion on /16 IPv4 availability, pricing, and terms. Given the size and complexity of /16 transactions, all pricing is provided upon direct consultation. https://dcxv.com/ipv4
Hidden Costs to Watch For
A /16 purchase involves costs well beyond the headline price per address. RIPE NCC transfer fees for large blocks are substantial. Legal review of the purchase agreement, title search of the IP registration history, and representation in RIR proceedings if contested will require professional legal fees. Routing announcements for a /16 block require coordination with upstream transit providers; some providers charge for BGP configuration changes. Reverse DNS delegation across 65,536 addresses requires either DNS provisioning work or delegation to your own nameservers, both of which involve time and configuration effort. If any portion of the /16 has blacklist history, cleanup must be handled systematically — bulk delisting requests are not accepted by most major blocklists.
For leasing, ensure the contract is explicit about who controls the routing announcement, whether the block can be sub-allocated to your customers, and what happens if the provider’s upstream removes the route. Due diligence at /16 scale protects a major asset.
