What are PI assignments?

These are IP address ranges assigned directly by AfriNIC to end-user organisations, typically enterprise type (non-ISPs) setups like banks and large corporates who prefer to have their own IP address space that is independent of any ISP, hence giving them the ability and flexibility to easily connect to any ISP without having to renumber their networks. Until May 2007, only IPv4 PI assignments were possible. A policy approved in June 2007 allows IPv6 PI addresses to be assigned to end-user organisations and critical internet infrastructure. In full, PI stands for Provider Independent.

Who can request for an IPv6 PI assignment?

Any organisation within the AfriNIC service region can request for an IPv6 PI assignment provided they meet the following criteria:

• They are not an AfriNIC member of “LIR” category,
• They are EITHER an AfriNIC member of “End-user” category holding at least one IPv4 PI assignment OR they meet the eligibility criteria for AfriNIC “EU” membership and an IPv4 PI assignment.
• They can clearly describe the planned use of the requested IPv6 PI assignment.

How can one request for a PI IPv6 range?

Online at http://www.afrinic.net/forms/templates/affrm-v6pi200707.htm

How much should i request for, and how much will be assigned anyway?

The policy suggests one /48 per end-site, but more /48s can be assigned if the requestor properly justifies the need.

Will I get a contiguous block when i request for more?

Most likely, yes – as there is a reservation mechanism in use to ensure proper aggregation.

What if i encounter several transit filters?

We can help in getting in touch with the ISPs whose filters are not properly adjusted for /48 IPv6 prefixes.