How to Buy or Sell IPv4 - Fast and Secure Transfer Brokerage with DCXV
The IPv4 market in 2026 presents a rare opportunity. After the biggest price correction in a decade, large blocks (/16+) are at multi-year lows while small blocks (/24-/23) hold strong due to SMB demand. With record transaction volume in 2025 (over 8,000 transfers globally) and the global free pool nearly exhausted, the market is more liquid and accessible than ever. Whether you are buying or selling, DCXV makes the entire process fast, transparent, and secure.
Why It Is Easier Than You Think
Many companies hesitate to enter the IPv4 market because they expect a long and complicated process. The reality is different. When you work with DCXV, the only things you actually wait for are:
- Escrow setup - typically 1-3 days to secure funds
- RIR processing - RIPE NCC, ARIN, or APNIC review and approve the transfer
- Bank wire transfer - standard processing time for your bank
Everything else is handled by our transfer agents who work almost 24/7. We prepare all documents, coordinate between buyer and seller, communicate with the RIR, and make sure everything stays on track and without delays. Most intra-RIR transfers are completed within 3-10 business days from start to finish. For inter-RIR transfers (between different registries), the process may take longer due to additional coordination between registries.
We have successfully completed numerous inter-RIR transfers across all major directions and have the expertise to do it faster than most brokerage companies:
- RIPE -> ARIN
- RIPE -> APNIC
- RIPE -> LACNIC
- ARIN -> APNIC
- ARIN -> LACNIC
- APNIC -> LACNIC
Current IPv4 Market Pricing - April 2026
Prices vary depending on block size, region, and market conditions. Here is an overview of current market rates:
| Subnet | Addresses | Price per IP (USD) | Block Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| /24 | 256 | 38 - 45 | 9,728 - 11,520 |
| /23 | 512 | 35 - 42 | 17,920 - 21,504 |
| /22 | 1,024 | 28 - 35 | 28,672 - 35,840 |
| /21 | 2,048 | 24 - 30 | 49,152 - 61,440 |
| /20 | 4,096 | 20 - 28 | 81,920 - 114,688 |
| /19 | 8,192 | 18 - 24 | 147,456 - 196,608 |
| /18 | 16,384 | 15 - 20 | 245,760 - 327,680 |
| /17 | 32,768 | 13 - 18 | 425,984 - 589,824 |
| /16 | 65,536 | 10 - 15 | 655,360 - 983,040 |
| /15 | 131,072 | 10 - 14 | 1,310,720 - 1,835,008 |
The market has bifurcated. Smaller blocks (/24-/23) command premium prices of $35-45 per IP due to strong demand from SMBs and cloud providers. Larger blocks (/16+) are at multi-year lows following the 2025 correction, offering significant value for organizations that need scale.
2026 Market Context - A Buyer's Opportunity Window
The IPv4 market saw record activity in 2025 with over 8,000 transfers globally - one of the highest volumes ever recorded. Large blocks (/16+) corrected more than 60% from the 2021-2022 peak of $50+ per IP, bringing prices to levels not seen in years. Meanwhile, demand continues to grow driven by AI infrastructure, IoT deployments, and government broadband expansion programs.
The global free pool is nearly exhausted with roughly 3.9 million addresses remaining across all RIRs. IPv6 adoption continues but most organizations still require IPv4 for customer reachability, third-party integrations, and email deliverability. For buyers seeking /20 or larger blocks, 2026 may be one of the best acquisition windows in recent history.
IPv4 Leasing as an Alternative
Not every business needs to own IPv4 addresses outright. Leasing is a practical option for temporary projects, testing, or scaling without a large upfront investment. Current lease rates are approximately $0.38-$0.45 per IP per month, meaning a /24 block can be leased from roughly $100-$115 per month. DCXV offers both purchase and lease options - contact ipv4@dcxv.com for lease pricing.
Selling Your IPv4 Block
If you hold unused IPv4 addresses, this is an excellent time to sell. Demand for small and medium blocks remains strong, and if you hold larger blocks, the market still has active buyers at competitive volume rates. DCXV handles the entire process for you. We verify all documentation, find qualified buyers, manage the escrow process, and coordinate with the RIR. You receive your payment securely and quickly.
Get Started
Ready to buy or sell IPv4 addresses? Fill out the contact form on our IPv4 Broker page or reach us directly at ipv4@dcxv.com. Our team responds within minutes and will guide you through every step.
FAQ
How long does an IPv4 transfer take?
Most intra-RIR transfers through DCXV complete in 7-10 business days. The main variables are escrow setup (1-3 days) and RIR processing time. Inter-RIR transfers may take longer due to coordination between registries.
What is the minimum block size I can buy?
The smallest transferable block is a /24 (256 IP addresses). This is the minimum allocation that can be independently routed and transferred across all major RIRs including RIPE NCC, ARIN, and APNIC.
Do I need to be an LIR to buy IPv4 addresses?
You need LIR (Local Internet Registry) membership with the relevant RIR to hold resources directly. If you are not an LIR, DCXV can assist with LIR creation (approximately 7-day turnaround) or facilitate the transfer through our membership. Contact ipv4@dcxv.com for options.
Is leasing IPv4 addresses a good alternative to buying?
Leasing is a practical option if you need addresses temporarily or want to avoid the upfront cost of ownership. Current lease rates are approximately $0.38-$0.45 per IP per month. DCXV offers both purchase and lease services - contact us to discuss which option fits your needs.
