1) Introduction

AfriNIC assigns blocks of IP addresses to end-users who request address space for their internal use in running their own networks, but not for sub-delegation or reassignment of those addresses outside their organization. End-users must meet some requirement for justifying the assignment of an address block.

Determination of IP address space allocation size is the responsibility of AfriNIC staff. In an effort to ensure that Classless Inter-Domain Routing (CIDR) is implemented and utilized as efficiently as possible, AfriNIC will issue blocks of addresses on appropriate "CIDR-supported" bit boundaries with a 'slow start' mechanism.

2) Minimum assignment

In general, the minimum block of IP address space assigned by AfriNIC to end- users is a /24. If assignments smaller than /24 are needed, end-users should contact their upstream provider. Prefixes assigned to End-User will be from a block reserved for that purpose.

3) First End-user assignment criteria

The requesting End users must:

a) Be an AfriNIC member in good standing

b) Show either an existing efficient utilization of at less /25 from their upstream provider.

c) Justify an immediate need of at less 50% of total requested size based on their Network Infrastructure. Eg: new Company.

4) Additional Assignment

Utilization rate of address space is a key factor in justifying a new assignment of IP address space. Requestors must show exactly how previous address assignments have been utilized and must provide appropriate details to verify their one-year growth projection. The basic criteria that must be met are:

• *A 25% immediate utilization rate, and 
• *A 50% utilization rate within one year. 

A greater utilization rate may be required based on individual network requirements. Private IP address: End-users not currently connected to an ISP and/or plan not to be connected to the Internet are encouraged to use private IP numbers reserved for non-connected networks (see RFC 1918).

5) End-User Assignment to critical Infrastructure

AfriNIC will make End-User assignment to critical infrastructure providers of the Internet such as public exchange points and core DNS service providers. These allocations will be no longer than a /24 using IPv4. Multiple allocations may be granted in certain situations. - Exchange point assignment MUST be assigned from specific blocks reserved only for this purpose.

AfriNIC will make a list of these blocks publicly available.

Exchange point operators must provide justification for the allocation, including: connection policy, location, other participants (minimum of three total), ASN, and contact information. This policy does not preclude exchange point operators from   requesting address space under other policies such as becoming LIR.

6) Definitions

Exchange point:

An Internet Exchange Point is defined as a physical network infrastructure (layer 2) operated by a single entity whose purpose is to facilitate the exchange of Internet traffic between ISPs. There must be a minimum of three ISPs connected and there must be a clear and open policy for others to join. Addresses needed for other purposes (e.g. additional services provided to the members) should be acquired through the appropriate means (e.g. an upstream ISP).

Core DNS service provider:  

A core DNS service provider is a company who provides DNS service for the root level of the DNS tree (ICANN-sanctioned root operators).