32-bit ASN FAQs
- What is a 32-bit ASN?
- Why have 32-bit ASNs been introduced?
- When can I request a 32-bit ASN?
- I already have an AS Number, do I need to apply for a new one?
- Should I request a 16-bit ASN or a 32-bit ASN?
- How can I get a 32-bit ASN?
- How do I apply for a temporary 32-bit ASN to test my network?
- Will the assignment policy change?
- Are 32-bit ASNs only available in RIPE NCC service region?
- What is the format of a 32-bit ASN?
- Where can I find out more about 32-bit ASNs?
1. What is a 32-bit ASN?
32-bit ASN stands for 32-bit Autonomous System Number.
2. Why have 32-bit ASNs been introduced?
With 16-bit AS Numbers, around 65,000 unique numbers are possible. Around 73% of these numbers have already been assigned. Studies have shown that with the present assignment rate, the supply of 16-bit ASNs will be exhausted between 2010 and 2015. The introduction of 32-bit ASNs increases the supply of AS Numbers to four billion.
3. When can I request a 32-bit ASN?
You can request one now. If you do not specifically ask for a 32-bit ASN, you will receive a 16-bit ASN. However, as of 1 January, 2009, all assignments will be 32-bit ASN by default, unless you specifically ask for a 16-bit ASN. From 1 January 2010, there will be no differentiation between the two varieties and the RIPE NCC will assign from a single pool.
4. I already have an AS Number. Do I need to apply for a new one?
No. 16-bit ASNs and 32-bit ASNs are interoperable. You do not have to renumber. If you do not plan to expand your network it is sufficient to check that your tools still work when you enter a 32-bit ASN. More details are available at:
http://ripe.net/ripe/meetings/ripe-53/presentations/32bit_asn.pdf
5. Should I request a 16-bit ASN or a 32-bit ASN?
If you are using the latest equipment and software and your upstream provider supports 32-bit ASNs, apply for a 32-bit ASN. If you are using older equipment and software, apply for a 16-bit ASN.
6. How can I get a 32-bit ASN?
You should fill in the Autonomous System (AS) Number request form.
Until 1 January 2009, you will need to specify that you want a 32-bit ASN under [INSERT SUPPLEMENTAL COMMENTS]. After this date, you will receive a 32-bit ASN by default.
Supporting information for the request form is available on Supporting Notes for the Autonomous System Number Request Form
7. How do I apply for a temporary 32-bit ASN to test my network?
A public AS number can be assigned for Internet experiments using
Assignments for Internetworking Experiments
8. Will the assignment policy change?
No, the criteria for assignment of an ASN will not change.
See RIPE Policy Proposal 2005-12 for more details.
9. Are 32-bit ASNs only available in the RIPE NCC service region?
No. All of the Regional Internet Registries (RIRs) can assign them.
10. What is the format of a 32-bit ASN?
As of 25 March 2009, RIPE NCC services reference AS Numbers in ASPLAIN format. This is in line with RFC5396, published in December 2008.
11. Where can I find out more about 32-bit ASNs?
The following Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) documents offer more information about 32-bit ASNs:
BGP Support for Four-octet AS Number Space (RFC4893)
This document describes the changes to the BGP protocol and the 16-bit ASN to 32-bit ASN transition mechanism.
A list of operating system versions compatible with 32-bit ASNs is available at:
http://as4.cluepon.net/index.php/Software_Support
We updated this page on 24 March 2009
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