IPv6 Address Space Policy for Internet Exchange Points Timothy Lowe Leo Vegoda Document ID: ripe-256 Date: 5 August 2002 See also: ripe-224 Contents 1.0 Introduction 2.0 Definition 3.0 Policy 4.0 Warning 5.0 Obtaining the Address Space 1.0 Introduction Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) are used to exchange Internet traffic between different Internet Service Providers (ISPs). Many Exchange Point operators require address space for the peering mesh that is independent from any of the address space in use by member networks. 2.0 Definition 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). 3.0 Policy Requesting organisations that meet the definition in section 2.0 may receive address space to meet their needs. If the requesting organisation is confident that it will never need more than a single network then a /64 will be assigned. Otherwise, a /48 will be assigned. 4.0 Warning Networks assigned under this policy may not be globally routable. 5.0 Obtaining the Address Space Address space for IXPs qualifying under this policy can be requested by using the form "IPv6 Request Form for Internet Exchange Points" available from the RIPE Document Store at: http://www.ripe.net/ripe/docs/ipv6request-exchangepoint.html