Leasing IPv4 addresses lets you use public IPv4 space without buying it. It is popular with hosting providers, VPN and proxy services, start-ups and any network that needs capacity quickly or only for a defined period. Here is how IPv4 leasing works and what to look for in a provider.
How an IPv4 lease works
The block stays registered to the owner (the lessor), and you (the lessee) receive the right to use it for an agreed term in exchange for a recurring fee. Typical terms range from one month to several years. Because ownership does not change, there is no RIR transfer — which is why leased space can be delivered quickly, often within 48 hours.
Letter of Authorization (LOA)
An LOA is a document from the address holder authorizing your network to announce the prefix. Your upstream providers and transit carriers will usually ask for it before they accept routes for the leased block from your ASN.
RPKI ROA and route objects
More and more networks drop routes that fail RPKI validation. A ROA (Route Origin Authorization) published by the address holder states which ASN may originate the prefix. For leased space, the lessor should create a ROA authorizing your ASN, and route objects in the relevant Internet Routing Registry (IRR) should match. Without these, parts of the internet may not reach your addresses.
What to check before signing a lease
- Reputation — the block should be checked against major blacklists before delivery.
- Geolocation — confirm where geo-IP databases place the block and whether it can be updated for your users.
- ROA and IRR support — the provider should create ROAs and route objects for your ASN.
- Term and notice period — know how long you are committed and how much notice is needed to renew or end the lease.
- Abuse handling — understand how abuse reports are handled, since they reference the address holder.
- Scalability — check whether you can add more space later from the same provider.
Do you need your own ASN?
To announce leased space independently via BGP you need an Autonomous System Number. If you don't have one, some providers can route the addresses on your behalf, or you can apply for an ASN through your RIR.
Lease IPv4 within 48 hours
All Tech Cloud Services leases clean, reputation-checked IPv4 blocks on flexible terms, with LOA provided so you can announce from your ASN. Request a lease quote and our team will reply within 24 hours.
Frequently asked questions
A Letter of Authorization is a document from the address holder that authorizes your network to announce a specific prefix. Upstream providers usually require it.
Networks that enforce RPKI may reject your routes if no valid ROA authorizes your ASN to originate the prefix, making your addresses unreachable for some users.
Leasing has a much lower upfront cost, while buying avoids recurring fees. Over a long period buying can work out cheaper; for short or uncertain needs leasing is usually more economical.