Standfirst: Enterprises are converting idle IPv4 address space into revenue; strategic sales and leasing turn digital infrastructure into capital assets. Firms are realising unused IPv4 address blocks can be monetised through leases or sales. A European university case shows how excess IPs can fund large infrastructure projects.
Introduction
IP addresses — especially IPv4 blocks — have become more than just technical infrastructure in 2026. With the global IPv4 pool exhausted and demand still strong due to slow IPv6 adoption, unused IPv4 addresses are now monetisable digital assets, much like the concept explored in BTW Media’s “What makes an IP address a form of digital capital in 2026”. On secondary markets, enterprises can sell or lease unused address blocks, unlocking new revenue streams and turning dormant infrastructure into strategic financial value.
Why IP addresses have monetary value
IPv4 addresses are scarce: there are only about 4.3 billion globally, and no new ones are available from the Internet Assigned Numbers Authority (IANA). The exhaustion of this free pool has fuelled a robust market where unused addresses are traded, with large brokers facilitating larger deals. According to marketplace data, over 60 million addresses have been brokered, generating more than $1.3 billion for clients since 2014, and average pricing has risen significantly as demand outstrips supply.
Enterprise strategies: sell or lease surplus addresses
Direct sale: Companies can sell unused IPv4 blocks to buyers in need of additional addresses. For example, Telefónica reportedly sold surplus IPv4 space to Microsoft, creating a significant revenue stream. Leasing: Platforms like IPXO enable enterprises to lease idle IPv4 blocks, generating steady income while retaining ownership. This model has proven effective for organisations looking for long-term, predictable returns.
What are IP assets and why they matter
IP addresses are unique identifiers that allow devices to communicate over the Internet. With IPv4 addresses effectively exhausted, unused blocks have tangible economic value. Enterprises holding legacy allocations can either sell addresses outright or lease them to other organisations needing additional capacity. These transactions are essential not only for immediate revenue but also for maintaining operational flexibility. Without access to globally recognised addresses, businesses risk service interruptions and connectivity issues.
Governance structures and monetisation
While RIRs (Regional Internet Registries) allocate IP addresses, enterprises can monetise excess IPs within the framework of RIR rules. LARUS and similar brokers operate in this ecosystem, helping companies ensure compliance with transfer, leasing, and reporting policies. Even though RIRs provide guidelines, the market is shaped by scarcity, demand, and regulatory alignment, making professional management crucial for maximising value and mitigating risk.
Case study: European university monetises legacy IP blocks
A European university held 2.1 million IPv4 addresses beyond its operational needs. Through a marketplace facilitated by a broker, the institution sold 1.5 million addresses, generating approximately €75 million. These funds were reinvested in a new research data centre, while 600,000 addresses were retained for future network growth. This demonstrates how structured monetisation — whether through sale or leasing — can unlock substantial capital while supporting infrastructure projects.
Why monetisation matters
Excess IP assets offer non-dilutive revenue, enhance network scalability, and provide financial flexibility. For companies constrained by IPv4 scarcity, monetisation helps fund innovation, cloud migration, and expansion without relying on external capital.
Expert views on IP asset management
Bill Woodcock, Internet policy expert, notes that IPv4 scarcity transforms addresses into valuable digital capital, and careful governance and brokerage can safely unlock their financial potential. Market transparency, compliance with RIR policies, and professional management are keys to successful monetisation.
Conclusion
Monetising excess IP assets turns dormant technical resources into strategic financial tools. Enterprises that understand IPv4 scarcity, like LARUS, and comply with RIR rules can convert unused addresses into revenue, funding infrastructure and growth.
FAQs
1. What is an IP asset?
A unique IPv4 or IPv6 address that enables Internet communication and can be leased or sold.
2. How can enterprises monetise IP assets?
By selling or leasing unused IP blocks via RIR-compliant marketplaces.
