Introduction to Windscribe VPN Review
Windscribe VPN is a privacy-focused virtual private network service designed to secure your online activity, protect your personal information, and bypass content restrictions. With servers in over 63 countries and features such as a built-in ad blocker and customizable privacy options, Windscribe caters to a wide range of users, from casual browsers to tech enthusiasts.
This review aims to provide a thorough analysis of Windscribe’s offerings, assessing its performance, usability, and reliability. By covering all relevant features and comparing it to competitors, we will help you determine whether Windscribe is the right VPN for your needs. Let’s dive into its capabilities and see how it stacks up in today’s competitive VPN landscape.
Windscribe, a Canadian-based virtual private network (VPN) service provider, was founded in 2015 by Yegor Sak and Alex Paguis.
E company offers cross-platform support, including applications for personal computers, smartphones, routers, and smart TVs, with operating systems such as Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, Windows, and Tizen OS.
Windscribe’s mission is to develop easy-to-use yet powerful tools that enable users to circumvent censorship, access geographically restricted content, and enhance online privacy. The company is committed to keeping the internet free from censorship and open to all, allowing individuals to avoid corporate data collection and surveillance.
In line with its values of inclusivity and diversity, Windscribe has taken steps to support underrepresented communities. For instance, in April 2024, the company announced initiatives to support individuals facing challenges in accessing humor, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity.
Windscribe also actively collaborates with organizations that share its vision. In December 2023, it partnered with Paradigm Initiative, an NGO operating in five African countries, focusing on connecting African youth with digital opportunities and ensuring digital rights for all.
By adhering to its mission and values, Windscribe aims to restore the internet to its original purpose: a global platform for unrestricted access to information, free from censorship and surveillance.
Available Plans
Windscribe offers a range of plans tailored to diverse user needs, including Free, Pro, and customizable options through its “Build a Plan” feature.
Free Plan: Windscribe’s free tier provides users with up to 10 GB of data per month and access to servers in 11 countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Norway, Romania, and Turkey. This plan supports unlimited simultaneous connections, making it a solid choice for users with basic VPN requirements.
Pro Plan: The Pro plan unlocks all of Windscribe’s features, offering unlimited data and access to servers in over 69 countries and 112 cities. It also includes advanced functionalities like the R.O.B.E.R.T. suite, which blocks ads, trackers, and malware. Pricing for the Pro plan is as follows:
- Monthly Subscription: $9 per month
- Annual Subscription: $69 per year (equating to $5.75 per month)
Build a Plan: Windscribe’s “Build a Plan” feature allows users to customize their VPN service by selecting specific server locations and features. Each location can be added for $1 per month, with a minimum purchase requirement of $3. Users can also opt for unlimited data and full access to R.O.B.E.R.T. for an additional $1 per month. This flexibility enables users to tailor the service to their specific needs and budget.
Comparisons with Competitors
Comparison with Competitors: When compared to other VPN providers, Windscribe’s pricing is competitive, especially considering its unlimited simultaneous connections feature. For instance, NordVPN offers a two-year plan at $2.99 per month but limits users to six simultaneous connections. Surfshark, on the other hand, provides unlimited device connectivity with its two-year plan priced at $2.49 per month. Windscribe’s free plan and customizable “Build a Plan” options offer unique flexibility that may appeal to users seeking tailored services.
In summary, Windscribe’s diverse pricing plans cater to a wide range of user preferences, from a robust free plan to a fully customizable paid option, positioning it as a versatile choice in the VPN market.
Windscribe offers a robust server network that enhances user experience through extensive global coverage and reliable performance.
Server Network
As of December 2025, Windscribe operates servers in over 69 countries and 134 cities worldwide.
This expansive network ensures users can access content from various regions, maintain privacy, and experience optimal connection speeds.
Number of Servers and Locations
While the exact number of servers fluctuates due to ongoing infrastructure upgrades, Windscribe maintains hundreds of servers across its locations. For instance, in the United States, Windscribe has servers in multiple cities, including New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, providing users with numerous connection points.
Each location typically comprises multiple servers to manage user load effectively and ensure consistent performance.
Availability of Virtual Servers
Windscribe distinguishes itself by predominantly utilizing physical servers, ensuring that the server’s advertised location matches its physical location. This transparency enhances user trust and connection reliability. The sole exception is the “Fake Antarctica” server, clearly labeled as such, which is physically located in Toronto, Canada, and serves as a novelty feature.
This commitment to physical servers contrasts with some competitors that use virtual server locations, where the server’s physical location differs from its advertised location. Windscribe’s approach ensures users experience accurate geolocation and potentially better performance due to reduced latency.
In summary, Windscribe’s extensive and transparent server network provides users with reliable and diverse connection options, reinforcing its reputation as a trustworthy VPN service.
Windscribe is a Canadian-based VPN service that emphasizes robust security and privacy features, catering to users seeking comprehensive online protection.
Security and Privacy
- Encryption Standards: Windscribe employs AES-256 encryption, a widely recognized standard for securing data transmissions.
- Supported Protocols: The service supports multiple VPN protocols, including IKEv2, OpenVPN (UDP and TCP), WireGuard, Stealth, and WStunnel. This variety allows users to select protocols based on their specific needs, balancing speed and security.
- No-Logs Policy and Third-Party Audits: Windscribe maintains a strict no-identifying-logs policy, ensuring that user activities are not tracked or stored. While the company has been transparent about its logging practices, it has not yet undergone a comprehensive third-party audit to verify these claims. Such an audit could enhance user trust by providing independent verification of their privacy practices.
Additional Features
- R.O.B.E.R.T. (Ad and Malware Blocking): Windscribe’s R.O.B.E.R.T. feature is a customizable domain and IP blocking tool that effectively blocks ads, trackers, malware, and other unwanted content. Users can tailor blocklists to their preferences, enhancing browsing safety and experience.
- Split Tunneling Capabilities: Available on Windows, macOS, and Android platforms, Windscribe’s split tunneling feature allows users to designate which applications utilize the VPN connection and which access the internet directly. This functionality is beneficial for managing bandwidth and accessing services that require a local IP address.
- Kill Switch Functionality: Windscribe offers a ‘Firewall’ feature that acts as a kill switch, preventing any internet connectivity outside the VPN tunnel. This ensures that user data remains protected even if the VPN connection drops unexpectedly. The firewall can be configured in modes such as Automatic, Manual, and Always On, providing flexibility based on user preferences.
- Support for Unlimited Simultaneous Connections: One of Windscribe’s standout offerings is its support for unlimited simultaneous device connections per account. This is particularly advantageous for users with multiple devices or households with numerous users, allowing all to benefit from VPN protection without
In summary, Windscribe provides a comprehensive suite of security and privacy features, including strong encryption, a variety of supported protocols, and a no-identifying-logs policy. Its additional features like R.O.B.E.R.T., split tunneling, a robust firewall, and support for unlimited connections make it a versatile choice for users seeking a reliable VPN service.
Windscribe VPN’s performance varies significantly across different server locations, impacting user experience based on geographic proximity and server load.
Speed Tests
Recent evaluations reveal that Windscribe’s download speeds can fluctuate markedly depending on the server:
- Switzerland: Achieved a download speed of 85.29 Mbps, indicating strong performance.
- United States: Recorded 84.8 Mbps, suitable for high-bandwidth activities.
- United Kingdom: Noted a significant drop to 2.87 Mbps, which could hinder tasks like streaming or large downloads.
- Singapore: Registered at 6.6 Mbps, potentially affecting users in Asia seeking efficient connectivity.
These results suggest that while some Windscribe servers offer competitive speeds, others may present challenges for data-intensive applications.
Comparison with Other VPN Services
When compared to leading VPN providers, Windscribe’s speed performance shows variability:
- NordVPN: Demonstrated superior speeds, maintaining approximately 63% of the original connection speed with its NordLynx protocol .
- Windscribe: While utilizing the WireGuard protocol, it achieved speeds comparable to NordVPN, though with slight differences.
It’s important to note that VPN speed can be influenced by factors such as server proximity, baseline internet speed, and server load.
In summary, Windscribe offers varying performance levels across its server network. Users may experience optimal speeds on certain servers, while others could present limitations, especially for high-demand activities like streaming or large file transfers. Considering these factors is crucial when selecting a VPN service tailored to individual needs.
For a visual representation of Windscribe’s speed performance, you may find the following video informative:
Windscribe is a popular VPN service known for its user-friendly interface and robust security features. However, when evaluating its reliability, particularly in terms of connection stability and downtime occurrences, several factors come into play.
Connection Stability
Users have reported instances where Windscribe takes longer than expected to establish a connection. This delay can often be attributed to the VPN protocol in use. For example, protocols like OpenVPN (UDP and TCP) and Stealth may require more time to connect due to their implementation. Switching to faster protocols such as WireGuard or IKEv2 can potentially reduce connection times to approximately 1-2 seconds.
Additionally, certain antivirus or firewall software may interfere with Windscribe’s ability to connect efficiently. Disabling such software temporarily can help determine if they are the cause of prolonged connection times. It’s also worth noting that restrictive networks, such as public Wi-Fi or corporate environments, might impede VPN connections. In these scenarios, experimenting with different protocols or using alternative internet connections, like a cellular network, may improve stability.
Downtime Occurrences
While Windscribe generally maintains a stable service, there have been user reports indicating occasional connectivity issues. For instance, some users have experienced random disconnections or difficulties in establishing a connection. These issues can stem from various factors, including software conflicts, network restrictions, or even specific device configurations.
It’s important to recognize that no VPN service can guarantee 100% uptime. However, Windscribe provides resources and support to address connectivity problems. Their knowledge base offers troubleshooting guides for common issues, and their support team is available to assist users experiencing persistent problems.
In summary, while Windscribe offers a range of features that appeal to many users, its reliability in terms of connection stability and downtime occurrences can vary based on individual circumstances. Users may encounter occasional delays or disconnections, often influenced by factors like chosen protocols, network environments, and potential software conflicts. For those seeking a VPN service with a strong track record of reliability, it’s advisable to consider these aspects and explore user reviews to make an informed decision.
Windscribe VPN offers a range of features tailored for streaming enthusiasts and torrenting users. Here’s an in-depth look at its capabilities in these areas:
Streaming and Torrenting
Ability to Unblock Popular Streaming Platforms
Windscribe is designed to bypass geo-restrictions on various streaming services. It successfully unblocks platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and BBC iPlayer, allowing users to access content libraries from different regions.
Performance During Streaming
While Windscribe can access multiple streaming platforms, its performance varies. Some users have reported slower speeds on certain servers, which may affect streaming quality. However, the VPN’s dedicated streaming servers, known as “Windflix,” are optimized for platforms like Netflix and Hulu, aiming to provide a smoother viewing experience.
Support and Performance for Torrenting Activities
Windscribe permits P2P file sharing and torrenting on most of its servers, with exceptions in countries like India, Bosnia, Lithuania, Russia, and South Africa. It supports popular torrent clients, including BitTorrent, uTorrent, and Vuze. The VPN offers features like port forwarding and a firewall (acting as a kill switch) to enhance security during torrenting sessions.
In terms of speed, Windscribe’s performance can be inconsistent. Some servers deliver satisfactory speeds suitable for downloading large files, while others may experience slower connections. Users have noted that speeds can drop below 2 Mbps on certain servers, which could impact torrenting efficiency.
Windscribe VPN provides robust features for streaming and torrenting, with the ability to unblock major platforms and support P2P activities. However, users may encounter variable performance depending on server selection and location. For optimal results, it’s advisable to connect to servers specifically optimized for streaming or torrenting and to test different locations to achieve the best possible speeds.
Windscribe is a versatile VPN service offering user-friendly applications across various platforms, including desktop, mobile, and browser extensions. Here’s an in-depth look at its user experience:
Desktop Applications
- Interface Design and Usability: Windscribe’s desktop client is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. The interface is designed to cater to both novices and experienced users, featuring an intuitive layout that facilitates easy navigation through settings and server selections. The main dashboard displays connection status, selected server location, and a prominent on/off button for quick connectivity. However, some users might find the abundance of features slightly overwhelming initially.
- Available Settings and Customization: The desktop application offers extensive customization options. Users can select preferred VPN protocols, such as OpenVPN, IKEv2, or WireGuard, and configure features like split tunneling to designate which applications use the VPN connection. Additionally, the app includes a firewall (acting as a kill switch) to prevent data leaks if the VPN connection drops. Advanced users can also modify internal DNS settings to utilize third-party DNS services.
Mobile Applications
- User Interface and Features: Windscribe’s mobile apps for Android and iOS maintain a consistent design with their desktop counterparts, ensuring a seamless user experience across devices. The mobile interface is streamlined for touch inputs, providing easy access to server selection, connection status, and quick settings. Notable features include split tunneling, allowing users to specify which apps bypass the VPN, and R.O.B.E.R.T., a customizable domain and IP blocking tool that enhances security by blocking ads, trackers, and malware.
- Compatibility with Various Devices: The mobile applications are compatible with a wide range of devices running Android and iOS. Windscribe supports unlimited simultaneous connections, enabling users to secure all their devices under a single account. This flexibility ensures protection across smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices without the need for multiple subscriptions.
Browser Extensions
- Features and Usability: Windscribe offers browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Edge, functioning as lightweight proxies that encrypt browser traffic. These extensions include features such as ad and tracker blocking, location and time zone spoofing, and cookie management, enhancing privacy during browsing sessions. The user-friendly interface allows for quick server selection and feature toggling directly within the browser.
- Supported Browsers: The extensions are compatible with major browsers, including Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and Opera. They also work with browser variants like Brave (based on Chromium) and Waterfox (based on Firefox). However, due to Safari’s limitations, Windscribe does not offer an extension for Apple’s browser. It’s important to note that while the browser extensions provide enhanced privacy features, they only encrypt browser traffic. For comprehensive device-wide protection, using the desktop or mobile applications is recommended.
In summary, Windscribe delivers a cohesive and feature-rich user experience across its desktop applications, mobile apps, and browser extensions. Its intuitive design, coupled with extensive customization options, caters to a broad spectrum of users seeking robust online privacy and security solutions.
Windscribe offers a comprehensive customer support system designed to assist users through various channels:
Availability of Support Channels
- Knowledge Base: Windscribe provides an extensive collection of articles, guides, and FAQs to help users resolve common issues independently.
- Live Chat: For immediate assistance, Windscribe offers a live chat feature on their website. Initially, users interact with “Garry,” an AI-powered chatbot capable of handling basic inquiries. If Garry cannot resolve the issue, the chat escalates to a human representative for more specialized support.
- Email Support: Users can submit a support ticket through the Windscribe website for more complex issues, receiving personalized assistance via email.
- Community Forums: Windscribe maintains an active community forum where users can ask questions, share experiences, and offer advice. This peer-to-peer support system is valuable for finding solutions to less common problems.
Quality and Responsiveness of Support
User experiences with Windscribe’s customer support are generally positive:
- Live Chat: The live chat feature provides quick responses, with users appreciating the immediate assistance for technical problems, account-related issues, or general questions.
- Email Support: Windscribe aims to respond to email inquiries within 24 to 48 hours. Providing detailed information in the initial contact can expedite the resolution process.
- User Feedback: On platforms like Google, Windscribe holds a 3.9 out of 5-star rating, indicating a generally favorable perception of their customer service. However, some users have reported mixed experiences, suggesting room for improvement in certain areas.
Presence of Resources like Knowledge Bases or Forums
Windscribe’s support infrastructure includes:
- Knowledge Base: A well-organized repository of articles and guides covering a broad spectrum of topics, including VPN setup on different devices, feature explanations, and common troubleshooting steps.
- Community Forums: An active platform where users engage in discussions, share solutions, and provide support to one another, enhancing the overall user experience.
In summary, Windscribe offers a robust customer support system with multiple channels to assist users effectively. While the quality and responsiveness are generally commendable, user experiences vary, indicating potential areas for enhancement.
Windscribe Review: Privacy and Logging Policy
Detailed Analysis of the Logging Policy
Windscribe is transparent about its logging policy, a critical factor for users concerned with privacy. The company explicitly states that it does not store connection logs, IP timestamps, or browsing history. According to Windscribe’s official website, the only data retained includes the total bandwidth used in a month and the timestamp of the last activity on the server, which resets monthly. This limited logging approach minimizes exposure of user information while ensuring operational efficiency.
Competitors like ExpressVPN and ProtonVPN also maintain no-logs policies, but Windscribe’s implementation is particularly notable due to its clarity and detail. While the industry increasingly adopts no-logs policies, many services are vague in their declarations; Windscribe avoids this ambiguity.
Jurisdiction and Its Implications for User Privacy
Windscribe operates under Canadian jurisdiction, which could raise concerns given Canada’s participation in the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance. However, Windscribe mitigates these concerns by adhering to a strict no-logs policy, ensuring that even if data were requested by authorities, there would be minimal or no useful information to provide.
Canada’s privacy laws, such as the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act (PIPEDA), offer some safeguards. Yet, users seeking the utmost privacy might prefer VPNs based in jurisdictions with no data-retention mandates, like Panama (NordVPN) or the British Virgin Islands (ExpressVPN).
Windscribe’s choice of jurisdiction should prompt users to evaluate the trade-off between legal oversight and the provider’s technical safeguards.
Transparency Reports or Legal Interactions
Windscribe demonstrates commitment to transparency by releasing periodic reports detailing any governmental or legal data requests. To date, the company reports minimal interaction with law enforcement, thanks to its no-logs architecture. This transparency builds trust, setting Windscribe apart from competitors who may not disclose such information.
In 2021, Windscribe faced scrutiny when Ukrainian authorities seized servers containing unencrypted data. This incident highlighted vulnerabilities but also prompted the company to enforce changes, such as using encrypted RAM-based servers, similar to industry leaders like ExpressVPN and Surfshark. These updates ensure that even physical server seizures won’t compromise user data in the future.
Windscribe’s privacy and logging policy strikes a balance between functionality and user privacy. While its Canadian jurisdiction may concern privacy purists, the robust no-logs policy, ongoing transparency efforts, and adoption of advanced server technology make it a strong contender in the VPN market. These factors make Windscribe a viable option for privacy-conscious users seeking a reliable and affordable VPN service.
Pros And Cons
Pros:
- Generous Free Plan: Windscribe offers a free version with 10GB of data per month, access to servers in 11 countries, and unlimited simultaneous connections, making it one of the most generous free VPNs available.
- Unlimited Device Connections: Both free and paid plans allow unlimited simultaneous connections, enabling users to secure all their devices without additional costs.
- Robust Security Features: Windscribe employs strong encryption protocols, including OpenVPN, IKEv2, and WireGuard, and offers a firewall that acts as a kill switch to prevent data leaks if the VPN connection drops.
- R.O.B.E.R.T. Tool: This customizable domain and IP blocking tool enhances security by blocking ads, trackers, malware, and other unwanted content, providing a safer browsing experience.
- Flexible Pricing Options: Windscribe’s “Build A Plan” option allows users to select specific server locations at $1 per location per month, with a minimum purchase of $3, offering a customizable and cost-effective solution.
- Streaming Capabilities: Windscribe’s specialized servers, known as WINDFLIX, are designed to unblock popular streaming services like Netflix, BBC iPlayer, and Hulu, enhancing access to geo-restricted content.
Cons:
- Lack of Independent Security Audits: As of December 2024, Windscribe has not undergone independent security audits, which may raise concerns for users prioritizing verified privacy assurances.
- Limited Customer Support: Windscribe lacks 24/7 live chat support, relying instead on a ticket system and a chatbot, which may result in slower response times for users seeking immediate assistance.
- Past Security Incident: In July 2021, two of Windscribe’s servers in Ukraine were seized by authorities, revealing that they were not encrypted. While Windscribe has since taken steps to enhance security, this incident may concern some users.Wikipedia
- Based in a Five Eyes Country: Windscribe is headquartered in Canada, a member of the Five Eyes intelligence-sharing alliance, which may be a consideration for users concerned about jurisdictional privacy implications.
- Inconsistent Speeds: While Windscribe offers decent speeds, performance can vary depending on server load and location, potentially affecting activities like streaming and torrenting.Tom’s Guide
In summary, Windscribe provides a feature-rich VPN service with a generous free plan, robust security features, and flexible pricing options. However, the lack of independent security audits, limited customer support, and its jurisdiction may be points to consider for potential users.
Windscribe is a versatile VPN service that offers both free and paid plans, catering to a wide range of user needs. Here are some frequently asked questions about Windscribe:
Windscribe offers a free plan that provides access to servers in over 10 locations, with a data limit of 2 GB per month. By verifying your email address, you can increase this limit to 10 GB per month. The free plan allows unlimited simultaneous connections but has certain limitations compared to the paid version.
FAQS
What features are included in the free plan?
The free plan includes access to servers in more than 10 countries, 10 GB of data per month (with email verification), unlimited simultaneous connections, and the R.O.B.E.R.T. ad and malware blocker with limited functionality. However, it lacks some advanced features available in the Pro plan.
How much does Windscribe Pro cost?
Windscribe Pro offers several pricing options. As of December 2024, the monthly plan is priced at $9.00 per month, while the yearly plan costs $69.00 per year, which averages to $5.75 per month. Additionally, Windscribe offers a “Build a Plan” option, allowing users to customize their plan by selecting specific server locations at $1 per location per month.
Can I use Windscribe on multiple devices?
Yes, Windscribe allows unlimited simultaneous connections, meaning you can use it on all your devices at the same time with a single account.
Is Windscribe safe to use?
Windscribe is considered safe to use. It employs strong encryption and security protocols to protect user data. The free version uses the same encryption and VPN protocols as the paid version, ensuring a secure browsing experience.
Does Windscribe keep logs of my data?
Windscribe has a strict no-logs policy. It does not store your original IP address or the sites you visit. The only data retained includes your username, password, email address, payment method, total amount of data transferred in the past 30 days, timestamp of your last activity, and the number of parallel connections to prevent account sharing.
Where is Windscribe located?
Windscribe is based in Ontario, Canada. It’s important to note that Canada is part of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance, which could have implications for data sharing under certain circumstances.
Does Windscribe work with streaming services like Netflix?
Windscribe can access various streaming services, including Netflix. However, its effectiveness can vary depending on the server and region. Some users have reported difficulties accessing certain Netflix libraries.
What devices and platforms are compatible with Windscribe?
Windscribe is compatible with a wide range of platforms, including Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, and iOS. It also offers browser extensions for Chrome, Firefox, and Opera, and can be configured on routers, smart TVs, and other devices.
Does Windscribe offer customer support?
Windscribe provides customer support through a comprehensive knowledge base, email support, and a ticketing system. However, it does not offer live chat support, which means responses may not be immediate.
These answers should help you understand Windscribe’s offerings and determine if it’s the right VPN service for your needs.
Conclusion
Overall Assessment of Windscribe VPN
Windscribe VPN is a robust and feature-rich tool designed for users seeking enhanced privacy, secure browsing, and a reliable service for bypassing geo-restrictions. With its strong encryption standards (AES-256), support for a wide range of platforms (Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, and even browser extensions for Chrome and Firefox), and a free tier that offers up to 10GB of monthly data, Windscribe stands out as one of the most versatile VPNs on the market.
The platform’s innovative features, such as the “R.O.B.E.R.T.” ad and tracker blocker and the ability to configure OpenVPN manually, cater to privacy enthusiasts and tech-savvy users alike. Its “Build-a-Plan” option for customized pricing based on server selection is a rare and user-centric feature that many competitors lack.
Recommendations for Potential Users
- For Casual Browsers: If you are a light user primarily concerned with ad-blocking and secure browsing on public Wi-Fi, Windscribe’s free tier is an excellent starting point. The 10GB monthly cap is sufficient for occasional use and provides access to a select group of servers.
- For Streaming Enthusiasts: Windscribe’s ability to unblock major streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and BBC iPlayer, combined with its “Windflix” servers optimized for streaming, makes it an ideal choice for binge-watchers.
- For Privacy Seekers: With a strict no-logs policy and robust encryption protocols, Windscribe is a strong option for users prioritizing online anonymity. The optional double-hop VPN routing further enhances security for those dealing with sensitive information.
- For Budget-Conscious Users: The “Build-a-Plan” pricing model allows users to pay for only the servers they need, making Windscribe an economical choice compared to all-inclusive premium VPN plans.
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