What is LACNIC

• LACNIC allocates IP addresses and autonomous system numbers across 33 territories in Latin America and the Caribbean.

• It promotes inclusive internet governance through community-driven policy development and regional initiatives.

Understanding LACNIC’s role in the internet ecosystem  

The Latin America and Caribbean Network Information Centre (LACNIC) is one of five Regional Internet Registries (RIRs) worldwide.Established in 2002 and headquartered in Montevideo, Uruguay, LACNIC is responsible for allocating and managing internet number resources—such as IPv4, IPv6 addresses, and Autonomous System Numbers (ASNs)—within its service region.This region encompasses 33 territories across Latin America and the Caribbean.

LACNIC operates as a non-profit, membership-based organisation.Its members include internet service providers (ISPs), academic institutions, and other organisations that rely on internet number resources.By managing these resources, LACNIC ensures the stable and secure operation of the internet in its region.

A brief history of LACNIC  

The need for a regional internet registry in Latin America and the Caribbean became evident in the 1990s.Prior to LACNIC's establishment, IP address allocation in the region was managed by the American Registry for Internet Numbers (ARIN).However, regional stakeholders sought greater autonomy and representation in internet resource management.

In 1999, during the second ICANN meeting in Santiago, Chile, the agreement to create LACNIC was signed.The organisation was officially recognised by ICANN in 2002.

Core functions of LACNIC  

LACNIC’s core responsibilities focus on maintaining the technical infrastructure that supports internet connectivity and stability in Latin America and the Caribbean. One of its primary functions is the allocation of IP address space, including both IPv4 and IPv6, to organisations operating within its designated service region. This ensures that networks can operate efficiently and remain globally reachable. LACNIC is also responsible for assigning Autonomous System Numbers (ASNs), which are essential for routing traffic between different networks. Additionally, LACNIC manages the public WHOIS database, which provides transparent and accessible information about IP address and ASN allocations, supporting accountability and aiding in network troubleshooting. Another key responsibility involves reverse DNS delegations, which allow IP addresses to be resolved back into domain names—an important feature for email authentication, security, and many internet services. Together, these activities enable LACNIC to play a crucial role in the operational stability and governance of the regional internet infrastructure.

LACNIC's approach to internet governance  

Internet governance involves the development and application of shared principles, norms, rules, and decision-making procedures that shape the evolution and use of the internet.LACNIC actively participates in this process by promoting a bottom-up, multistakeholder model of governance.

This approach ensures that policies related to internet resource management are developed through open and inclusive discussions, allowing various stakeholders—including governments, private sector entities, civil society, and the technical community—to contribute.LACNIC facilitates this process through public policy forums and mailing lists where proposals are discussed and consensus is sought .

Community engagement and development initiatives  

Beyond its technical responsibilities, LACNIC is committed to fostering internet development and capacity building in its region.It supports various initiatives aimed at enhancing internet infrastructure, promoting digital inclusion, and strengthening cybersecurity.

One such initiative is the Líderes program, which provides funding and mentorship for research on internet governance topics with a local impact.The program encourages participation from underrepresented communities and supports projects that address regional challenges.

Additionally, LACNIC's FRIDA program offers grants for projects that contribute to internet development in areas such as gender equality in technology and cybersecurity.

LACNIC's role in global internet governance  

LACNIC is an active participant in global internet governance discussions.It collaborates with other RIRs through the Number Resource Organization (NRO), which serves as a coordinating body for joint activities and policy coordination.

In 2013, LACNIC joined other internet organisations in issuing the Montevideo Statement, which called for the evolution of global multistakeholder internet cooperation and emphasised the need for equal participation of all stakeholders in internet governance processes.

Challenges and the path forward  

As the internet continues to evolve, LACNIC faces challenges such as the exhaustion of IPv4 address space and the need to promote IPv6 adoption.In 2014, LACNIC announced that its IPv4 pool had reached a critical low threshold, prompting efforts to encourage the transition to IPv6.

LACNIC also recognises the importance of addressing emerging issues in internet governance, including cybersecurity, data privacy, and the digital divide.Through its programs and collaborative efforts, LACNIC aims to build a more inclusive and resilient internet ecosystem in Latin America and the Caribbean.

FAQs  

1. What is LACNIC?

LACNIC is the regional internet registry responsible for allocating and managing IP addresses and ASNs in Latin America and the Caribbean.

2. How does LACNIC contribute to internet governance?

LACNIC promotes a bottom-up, multistakeholder approach to policy development, ensuring that various regional stakeholders have a voice in internet governance.

3. What services does LACNIC provide?

LACNIC allocates IP addresses and ASNs, maintains the WHOIS database, manages reverse DNS delegations, and supports regional internet development initiatives.

4. How can organisations participate in LACNIC's policy development process?

Organisations can engage through public policy forums and mailing lists where proposals are discussed and consensus is sought. Participation is open to all interested parties.

5. Why is IPv6 adoption important in LACNIC's region?

With the exhaustion of IPv4 addresses, adopting IPv6 is crucial to accommodate the growing number of internet-connected devices and ensure continued internet growth and innovation.