Websites using Apnic

Okay, let s break down APNIC (Asia Pacific Network Information Centre) covering its overview, revenue model, alternatives, pricing structure, and customer care.

1. APNIC Overview

• What is it? APNIC is one of five Regional Internet Registries (RIRs) worldwide. It s a non-profit membership-based organization responsible for the allocation and registration of Internet number resources (IPv4 addresses, IPv6 addresses, and Autonomous System Numbers - ASNs) within the Asia Pacific region.

• Role: It plays a critical role in the stable and efficient operation of the Internet by:

  • Distributing IP addresses and ASNs to organizations needing them.
  • Maintaining a public registry of who holds those resources.
  • Developing policies and procedures governing the management of these resources in its region.
  • Providing training, workshops, and outreach activities related to Internet resource management.

• Governing Model: APNIC is a member-driven organization. Policies are developed through a bottom-up, community-based process involving its members.

• Region: Covers a vast geographical area, including countries in Asia, Australia, and the Pacific Islands.

2. Revenue Model

• Membership Fees: APNIC generates revenue primarily through membership fees.
  • Organizations that are allocated IP addresses or ASNs by APNIC must become members.
  • Membership fees are usually based on the size or number of resources a member holds.
• Training and Events: APNIC also generates some revenue through:
  • Conducting training workshops on IP addressing and related topics.
  • Organizing conferences and events for its members.
• Not-for-Profit: Importantly, APNIC is a not-for-profit organization. Revenue generated is used to cover operating expenses, improve its services, and invest in projects that support Internet development in the Asia Pacific region.

3. Alternatives

• Other RIRs: Organizations in different geographic regions need to interact with their respective RIR. The alternatives to APNIC are:
  • ARIN (American Registry for Internet Numbers): Covers North America.
  • RIPE NCC (Réseaux IP Européens Network Coordination Centre): Covers Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Central Asia.
  • LACNIC (Latin American and Caribbean Internet Addresses Registry): Covers Latin America and the Caribbean.
  • AfriNIC (African Network Information Centre): Covers Africa.

• Using an upstream provider: If an organization doesn t qualify for direct allocation from APNIC, it can obtain IP addresses from its upstream Internet service provider (ISP). This is the most common alternative for small to medium-sized businesses.

• IP Address Brokers (Risky): While not recommended, some companies use the services of IP address brokers who facilitate the transfer of IPv4 addresses between different organizations. However, these transfers come with additional costs, risk and are often not accepted by the RIRs themselves.

4. Pricing

• Complex and Varied: APNIC s pricing structure is complex and varies based on:
  • Membership Type: E.g., Associate membership vs. Full Membership
  • Number of Resources: The amount of IP address space requested.
  • Resource Type: IPv4 address space is more costly due to scarcity, compared to IPv6 space.
• Membership Fees: Fees are generally charged annually.
• One-Time Fees: There might be one-time application fees for certain resource allocations or membership upgrades.
• Resource Fees: Fees are charged for each type of resource held.

• Examples: It s difficult to give precise figures, as the fees can change. You should refer to the official APNIC website (apnic.net) for the most up-to-date pricing information and calculators.

• Note: Because IPv4 is scarce, the fees associated with its usage are higher. It s cheaper to use IPv6 resources.

5. Customer Care

• Support Channels: APNIC provides a range of customer support options:
  • Website (apnic.net): Their website provides extensive documentation, FAQs, and tutorials.
  • Help Desk: They offer support through email and a helpdesk portal for members.
  • Training: Workshops and webinars are a useful resource.
  • Policy Development Process: Members can actively participate in developing policies that are implemented in the region.
  • Conferences & Meetings: APNIC hosts annual conferences and other meetings where members can connect with staff and peers.
• Service Focus: APNIC focuses on helping members manage their IP addresses efficiently, guiding them through the application process, providing updates, helping in transfers, and informing them about any policy changes that could affect their resources.

Key Takeaways:

• APNIC is a vital organization for the Internet in the Asia Pacific region.
• It s a non-profit, member-driven entity.
• It allocates and manages IP addresses and ASNs.
• Organizations in the Asia Pacific region needing direct access to these resources must become APNIC members.
• Pricing is complex and depends on membership type and the resources requested.
• APNIC provides a variety of customer support options to its members.

Where to find the latest and official information:

• APNIC Website: apnic.net - this is the primary source for all information related to APNIC. Check here for current pricing, policy documents, and contact information.
• APNIC Member Services: Contact the APNIC member services team directly for personalized assistance.

I hope this comprehensive overview helps! If you have more specific questions, please ask.