Regional internet registry facts for kids

A Regional Internet Registry (RIR) is like a special organization that helps manage and give out unique internet addresses in different parts of the world. Think of it like a post office that makes sure every house has its own address so mail can find its way! On the internet, these addresses are called IP addresses (Internet Protocol addresses). They are super important because they help computers and devices find each other online.

There are five main RIRs around the world, and each one takes care of a specific region:

• American Registry for Internet Numbers (ARIN) for North America
• RIPE Network Coordination Centre (RIPE NCC) for Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia
• Asia-Pacific Network Information Centre (APNIC) for Asia and the Pacific region
• Latin American and Caribbean Internet Address Registry (LACNIC) for Latin America and the Caribbean region
• African Network Information Centre (AfriNIC) for Africa

These organizations make sure that everyone who needs an IP address, like internet service providers (ISPs) or large companies, gets one. They also keep track of who has which address to prevent confusion and make the internet work smoothly for everyone.

See also

In Spanish: Registro Regional de Internet para niños