- RIPE NCC debuts a foundational-level exam on IP addressing and LIR responsibilities for new technical staff.
- The move supports growing demand for structured, entry-level training across Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East.
New exam offers entry point into IP resource training
The RIPE NCC has introduced a new certification, the LIR Fundamentals exam, aimed at beginners in IP resource management. It assesses knowledge of IPv4 and IPv6 addressing, Autonomous System Numbers (ASNs), the RIPE Database, and the responsibilities of Local Internet Registries. The test is the fifth in RIPE NCC’s professional certification series and is designed for newcomers or those preparing to open an LIR account. The exam is 60 minutes long, taken online, and remotely proctored. Successful candidates receive a verifiable digital badge via Accredible.
Lisa van Ginneken, RIPE NCC Certification Specialist, said the exam “meets the needs of newcomers who want to build their knowledge and gain confidence before diving into more advanced training.” The exam is currently only available in English and is hosted on the RIPE NCC Certified Professionals platform. The new offering sits alongside more advanced options such as the BGP Routing and IPv6 Security exams.
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Why this is important
The LIR Fundamentals exam arrives at a time when the operational complexity of managing IP resources is increasing, particularly for small ISPs and data centre operators without formal technical training. With the depletion of IPv4 and the slow pace of IPv6 adoption, even basic misconfigurations can lead to operational instability or policy violations. The exam helps provide a minimum standard of understanding, especially useful for new entrants in the industry who may be responsible for managing RIPE Database entries or handling Autonomous System Numbers.
Beyond internal training needs, the certification supports a broader push towards formalising skills in Internet infrastructure management. Other regional registries, such as APNIC and ARIN, offer training, but RIPE NCC is among the few providing recognised digital credentials. In a time of heightened attention on IP address governance and IPv4 address transfers, a validated knowledge base helps ensure operational continuity and policy compliance, particularly at the network edge.
