AIO IP Trends 2025: IPv4, IPv6, and ASN Features Providers Offer Today

[johny899]

Have you ever considered the way IP addresses have changed over the years, and the typical host providers today? I have worked with a number of VPS and dedicated servers for a while, and the whole state of IPv4 and IPv6 along with options for ASN, is actually pretty interesting. If you are wondering, "What is this all about?" the options here can start to make sensible sense after we cover the options.

IPv4: Still King, but Scarce​

You have probably heard people say GDPR is running out? It is, or at least ip addresses are. I have providers that have actually started selling IPs in blocks of smaller number or charge you per bottom suspended IP! I have even seen providers who give you a single IPv4 as part of their hosting configuration, but charge you for any additional IPs.

• Single IPv4: Most VPS plans will come with one IPv4 at no charge.
• Extra IPv4: An additional IPv4 will generally cost you $1 to $5 for each assigned IPv4/month.
• Shared IPv4: Many budget providers still recycle IPv4 across its users.

It may be worth your time to ask your provider what strategy they are using to address the scarcity in IPv4. Have you ever tried running multiple projects on one IP? It can get messy rather quickly.

IPv6: the New Normal​

On the other hand, we're seeing an increase in widespread adoption of IPv6. Providers are ecstatic about this avenue because technically, it will go on forever. I always make sure my servers come with IPv6 support. Yes, this is for "future-proofing," but it also has its advantages for projects that have trouble with IPv4.

• Native IPv6: Many VPS or dedicated server configurations come ready to go by default.
• /64 or /48 subnet: Likely, the provider will give you enough addresses to create multiple projects with.
• Better routing: Two different ISPs could choose to use IPv4 over a somewhat heavily loaded network path, and IPv6 could take a different route with less congestion, providing faster access anyway.

Have you ever tried connecting to your website via IPv6 only? It is surprisingly usable these days.

ASN Options: Manage Your Traffic​

If you're continuing to grow your networks or if you're using multiple servers, then the use of Autonomous System Number (ASN) capabilities in your network is a fabulous option. ASN capabilities allow you routing control as you can make BGP announcements. A lot of providers have already given you private ASN assignments or they let you create your own ASN without any struggle.

• BGP through servers: Pretty Cool (if you want some routing brain food).
• Private ASN: Lets you play around with new network configurations.
• Network Control: Having routing control will give you more performance and options.

I'll say I have played a little with ASN and, to be honest, it is way cooler than I thought it was (or for that matter, it is cool getting your own little piece of the internet).

In summary,​

IPv4 is still favorable, IPv6 is the future, ASN provides the control nerds naturally crave, etc. Today selecting a provider is no longer solely based on CPU or RAM, but how have they managed IPs and the flexibility of their networking. When you decide on a VPS or dedicated server, pay attention to what they offer for IPs. It is worth it too, for efficiency it saves you all down the line.