What is a Local Internet Registry (LIR)?

An LIR is a member of a Regional Internet Registry (RIR), such as the RIPE NCC.

They are called LIRs because they are responsible for the distribution and registration of Internet number resources at a local level.

LIRs also ensure that RIPE community policies and procedures are followed at a local level.

Organisations that become LIRs are usually ISPs that assign and allocate Internet number resources to their customers, telecommunication companies, enterprise organisations and academic institutions.