The nonprofit organization responsible for managing IP address allocations and Autonomous System Numbers across the United States, Canada, and portions of the Caribbean. As one of the five Regional Internet Registries (RIRs) established to support global internet infrastructure, it maintains the database of who controls which IPv4 and IPv6 resources and ensures transparent governance of those resources. ARIN also plays a policy development role, providing network operators, service providers, and other stakeholders with a forum to shape how number resources are distributed and reclaimed. Its work underpins routing stability, internet growth, and the accountability needed for secure global connectivity.
Services and Responsibilities
ARIN provides services related to the technical coordination and management of Internet number resources. These services include the distribution of IPv4 and IPv6 address space and AS numbers. ARIN also facilitates policy development by its members and stakeholders, ensuring that the allocation and management of Internet number resources are carried out in a transparent and equitable manner.
- Technical Coordination: ARIN maintains the database of who controls which IPv4 and IPv6 resources, ensuring the stability and security of the internet infrastructure.
- Policy Development: ARIN provides a forum for network operators, service providers, and other stakeholders to shape policies on how number resources are distributed and reclaimed.
- Governance: ARIN is governed by an executive board elected by its membership, ensuring that its operations are community-based and transparent.
History and Structure
ARIN opened for business on December 22, 1997, after incorporating on April 18, 1997. It is a nonprofit corporation with headquarters in Chantilly, Virginia, United States. ARIN is one of five regional Internet registries in the world, each serving a specific geographic region. Like the other RIRs, ARIN is a nonprofit, community-based organization that participates in the international Internet community.
- Regional Coverage: ARIN serves the United States, Canada, and many Caribbean and North Atlantic countries.
- Nonprofit Status: ARIN operates as a nonprofit organization, ensuring that its services are provided in the public interest.
- International Collaboration: ARIN works closely with other RIRs to maintain the global internet infrastructure and promote the stable and secure growth of the internet.
