What is a Regional Internet Registry?

Regional Internet registries, or RIRs, are organizations that manage the allocation and registration of Internet digital resources, such as IP addresses. They are divided around the world, each registry providing coverage for a different area.

RIR is necessary because of the expansive nature of the Internet. Although there are many IPs available for use, it is not an unlimited number. Therefore, the Regional Internet Registries establish guidelines to handle the allocation after IANA creates the IP.

Each RIR follows the same basic policy and from there each registry can manage it in the way necessary for its region. They monitor the IP pool and protect Internet policies for all users.