Computer Abbreviations
Computer Abbreviations
Abbreviations
Computer
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Computer Abbreviations
The part of the computer's central processing unit (CPU) that performs arithmetic and
logical operations, such as addition, subtraction, and comparison.
A set of rules and protocols that allows software applications to communicate with each other.
APIs define the methods and data formats used for interaction between different software
components.
A character encoding standard that represents text in computers and other devices. It assigns
unique numeric codes to characters, including letters, numbers, punctuation marks, and
control characters.
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A form factor specification for computer motherboards, power supplies, and computer cases.
ATX defines the physical dimensions and layout of components in a computer system.
A set of web development techniques used to create interactive web applications. AJAX enables
data to be retrieved and updated asynchronously without the need to reload the entire web
page.
A power management standard that allows computers to control the power consumption of
various hardware components. APM enables features such as sleep mode, hibernation, and
power-saving settings
The simulation of human intelligence in machines, enabling them to perform tasks that
typically require human intelligence, such as speech recognition, problem-solving, and
decision-making.
A list of permissions associated with a file, folder, or network resource. ACLs determine who
can access, modify, or execute a particular resource and define the level of access granted to
each user or group.
AAA is a framework or set of protocols used in computer networks to manage and control
access to network resources and services.
Application Control Block (ACB) is a data structure or control block used by an operating
system or runtime environment to manage and control the execution of an application or
process. It contains information about the application, such as its current state, priority,
memory allocation, and other relevant data.
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In the context of office equipment, ADF stands for Automatic Document Feeder. It refers to a
feature found in scanners, photocopiers, or multifunction printers that allows multiple pages
to be scanned or copied automatically without needing to manually place each page on the
scanner bed.
ALGOL is a family of high-level programming languages that were developed in the late 1950s
and early 1960s. It was designed as a universal language for scientific and numerical
computing.
It is a high-speed networking technology that transmits data in fixed-size packets called cells. It
provided a fast and efficient method for transmitting voice, video, and data traffic over a
network.
A firmware that initializes hardware components during the computer's startup process and
provides a basic set of instructions for the operating system to communicate with hardware
devices.
A numeric representation system that uses binary encoding for each decimal digit. BCD is
commonly used in digital displays and calculations that require precise decimal accuracy.
A unit of data transfer rate that measures the number of bits transmitted or received per
second. BPS is commonly used to describe the speed of data transmission in serial
communication.
A routing protocol used to exchange routing information between internet service providers
(ISPs) and to determine the optimal path for forwarding data packets across the internet.
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A policy that allows employees to use their personal devices, such as smartphones, tablets,
and laptops, for work-related tasks and accessing company resources.
Definition: A data type used to store large binary data, such as images, videos, or
documents, in a database management system (DBMS). BLOBs can store data of variable
length.
The primary component of a computer that performs most of the processing inside the
computer. It executes instructions, performs calculations, and manages the flow of data.
Definition: A style sheet language used for describing the presentation and formatting of a
document written in HTML or XML. CSS is widely used to control the layout, colors, fonts,
and other visual aspects of web pages.
A geographically distributed network of servers that delivers web content and other media to
users based on their geographical location. CDNs help improve the performance, availability,
and reliability of websites and applications.
The use of computer software to create, modify, and optimize designs for various purposes,
such as architecture, engineering, manufacturing, and graphic design.
A strategy, software, or system used to manage interactions and relationships with customers.
CRM systems help organizations streamline sales, marketing, customer support, and other
customer-centric activities.
CAPTCHA: Completely Automated Public Turing test to tell Computers and Humans
Apart
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A file format that stores tabular data (numbers and text) in plain text format, with each value
separated by a comma. CSV files are commonly used for data exchange between different
applications and databases.
A metric used in online advertising to measure the percentage of users who click on a specific
link or advertisement, compared to the total number of users who viewed the advertisement.
Definition: A software application or platform used to create, manage, and publish digital
content, such as websites, blogs, and online stores. CMSs provide tools for content creation,
editing, organization, and collaboration.
It is a type of optical storage medium used in computers. A CD-ROM is a disc that contains data
that can be read by a computer's CD-ROM drive. The data on a CD-ROM is permanently written
during manufacturing and cannot be erased or modified.
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A measurement unit that determines the resolution of images, printers, and displays. DPI
refers to the number of dots or pixels per inch and affects the level of detail and clarity.
An optical disc storage medium used for storing and playing high-definition video, audio, and
data. DVDs have a larger storage capacity than CDs and are commonly used for movies,
software, and backups.
A system that translates domain names (e.g., www.example.com) into IP addresses, allowing
computers to locate and communicate with each other on the internet.
A network protocol that automatically assigns IP addresses and other network configuration
settings to devices on a network. DHCP simplifies the process of network setup and
management
Definition: An early operating system that provided a command-line interface and managed
disk operations on IBM-compatible computers. DOS was widely used before the popularity
of graphical user interfaces.
A type of high-speed internet connection that uses existing telephone lines to transmit digital
data. DSL provides faster data transfer rates than traditional dial-up connections.
Software that allows users to create, organize, and manage databases. DBMSs provide tools
for storing, retrieving, modifying, and analyzing data efficiently and securely.
A type of synchronous dynamic random-access memory (SDRAM) that can transfer data on
both the rising and falling edges of the clock signal. DDR memory provides higher data
transfer rates compared to its predecessor.
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It refers to a type of digital database that is shared and synchronized across multiple nodes or
computers within a network. DLT allows for decentralized and transparent record-keeping,
where each participant in the network maintains a copy of the ledger. Blockchain is a well-
known example of DLT.
It refers to the process of creating and designing publications, such as brochures, flyers,
magazines, and books, using specialized software on a personal computer. DTP software
allows users to combine text, images, and graphics in a visually appealing and professional
manner for print or digital distribution.
Definition: A type of non-volatile memory that can be electrically erased and reprogrammed.
EEPROM is commonly used for storing small amounts of data and firmware in computer
systems.
A legal contract between the software manufacturer or provider and the end-user. The EULA
outlines the terms and conditions under which the software can be used and specifies the
rights and limitations of the end-user.
A file format that contains a program or application that can be run or executed by a
computer. EXE files are commonly used in Windows operating systems to launch software
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programs.
Definition: It is a standard format and process used for exchanging structured business
documents electronically between different computer systems and organizations.
Definition: ERNET is a computer network specifically designed to cater to the needs of the
education and research communities. It provides high-speed connectivity and advanced
network infrastructure to facilitate communication, collaboration, and the exchange of
information among academic and research institutions.
A file system structure used by operating systems to organize and manage files on storage
devices such as hard drives and flash drives. FAT is commonly used in older versions of
Windows.
A standard network protocol used to transfer files between a client and a server on a
computer network. FTP allows users to upload, download, and manipulate files over the
internet.
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A list of common questions and answers related to a specific topic or product. FAQs are often
provided by websites or software applications to help users find information and solutions to
common problems.
A measure of the number of frames or images displayed per second in a video or animation.
FPS determines the smoothness and fluidity of motion in visual content.
Definition: A visual interface that allows users to interact with electronic devices or
software through graphical elements such as icons, buttons, windows, and menus. GUIs
provide a more user-friendly and intuitive way of interacting with computers.
Definition: A satellite-based navigation system that enables precise location and time
information to be obtained anywhere on Earth. GPS is widely used in various applications,
including navigation, mapping, and geolocation services.
A file format commonly used for storing and displaying animated images or short video clips.
GIF files use lossless compression, making them suitable for web graphics and simple
animations.
GHz: Gigahertz
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A unit of frequency that represents one billion cycles per second. GHz is used to measure the
clock speed of computer processors, indicating their processing power and speed.
Definition: In the context of email systems, particularly Microsoft Exchange, the Global
Address List is a directory that contains a list of email addresses and contact information
for individuals and groups within an organization.
The standard markup language used for creating and structuring web pages. HTML is the
foundation of the World Wide Web and provides the structure for displaying content such as
text, images, links, and multimedia.
A protocol used for transmitting hypertext documents over the internet. HTTP defines how
web browsers and servers communicate and is the foundation of data communication on the
World Wide Web.
An extension of HTTP that adds a layer of security using encryption. HTTPS ensures secure
communication between a web browser and a server, protecting sensitive information such as
login credentials and financial transactions.
A data storage device that uses magnetic storage to store and retrieve digital information.
HDDs are commonly used in computers and provide long-term storage for operating systems,
software, and user data.
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Definition: A digital interface used for transmitting high-quality audio and video signals
between devices. HDMI is widely used in home entertainment systems, computer monitors,
and multimedia devices.
A protocol that defines how data is sent and received over the internet. IP provides the
addressing scheme used to identify devices on a network and enables the routing of data
packets between them.
A software application that combines a code editor, compiler or interpreter, and debugging
tools to facilitate software development. IDEs provide a comprehensive environment for
writing, testing, and debugging code.
Definition: A protocol used by email clients to retrieve emails from a mail server. Unlike POP
(Post Office Protocol), IMAP allows users to manage their emails on the server and access
them from multiple devices.
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IPO: Input-Process-Output
Definition: It is a protocol and network that allows real-time text-based communication and
chat over the internet. IRC provides a platform for individuals to connect to servers and join
chat rooms (also known as channels) to engage in conversations with other participants.
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A commonly used image compression format that allows for efficient storage and
transmission of digital images. JPEG is widely used for photographs and graphics on the
internet and in digital photography.
A virtual machine that enables the execution of Java bytecode. JVM translates Java code into
machine-specific instructions, making Java programs platform-independent and portable.
A lightweight data interchange format that is easy for humans to read and write and easy for
machines to parse and generate. JSON is commonly used for transmitting data between a
server and a web application.
It is a technology used in web development to create dynamic web pages that combine HTML,
XML, or other document types with Java code. JSP allows developers to embed Java code within
HTML pages, which can be processed on the server before being sent to the client's web
browser.
KB: Kilobyte
A unit of digital information storage equal to 1,024 bytes. It is commonly used to measure the
size of files, documents, and computer memory.
Definition: A unit of data transfer rate that represents the number of kilobits (thousands of
bits) transmitted or received per second. It is used to measure the speed of data
transmission in computer networks and internet connections.
A popular desktop environment for Unix-like operating systems, providing a graphical user
interface (GUI) and a set of applications. KDE offers a customizable and user-friendly
environment for users.
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A computer network that spans a small geographical area, such as a home, office building, or
campus. LANs enable devices to share resources and communicate with each other.
A flat-panel display technology commonly used in computer monitors, televisions, and mobile
devices. LCDs use liquid crystals to create images and are known for their slim profile and
energy efficiency.
A semiconductor device that emits light when an electric current passes through it. LEDs are
used in various applications, including display panels, lighting, and indicators.
Definition: A network that covers a larger geographical area than a LAN but smaller than a
WAN, typically spanning a city.
A unit of data transfer rate, indicating the speed at which data is transmitted in a network.
A standard that extends the format of email messages to support non-text attachments.
A widely used audio coding format that compresses audio files while maintaining sound
quality.
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A set of standards for compressing and transmitting audio and video data.
MHz: Megahertz
A unit of frequency equal to one million cycles per second, often used to measure the speed of
a computer's processor.
Modem: Modulator-Demodulator
A device that enables computers to transmit data over telephone lines or cable systems.
It is a user interface design concept used in software applications where multiple documents
or windows can be open within a single parent window. Each document or window is
contained within the main application window, allowing users to work with multiple files or
views simultaneously.
Definition: It is a technology used primarily in the banking industry for the processing and
recognition of printed characters on checks and other financial documents.
Definition: It refer to, a utility tool provided by Microsoft for diagnosing and
troubleshooting issues with Microsoft software and operating systems. It collects
information about system configuration, hardware, and software components to help
identify and resolve problems.
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Definition: Software that manages and controls network resources and services.
A dedicated file storage device that provides centralized data storage and access to multiple
clients over a network.
A file system used by Windows operating systems to organize and manage files on a hard
drive.
A device that records and stores video footage from network cameras.
A distributed file system protocol that allows a computer to access files over a network as if
they were on its local storage.
A technique that allows multiple devices to share a single IP address by translating internal IP
addresses to an external address.
A standard for stereo television sound transmission that compresses audio signals for
broadcasting.
A logical gate that produces a true output only when both of its inputs are false.
A type of computer memory that retains data even when the power is turned off.
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The technology that enables computers to recognize and interpret text from images or
scanned documents.
A display technology that uses organic compounds to emit light and create images.
Definition: Software that manages computer hardware and provides a platform for other
software to run on.
A temporary password that is valid for only one login session or transaction.
Definition: A programming paradigm that organizes software design around objects that
represent real-world entities.
Definition: It is used in the field of industrial automation and refers to a series of standards
and specifications for interoperability and communication between different automation
devices and systems. OPC enables data exchange, control, and monitoring in industrial
environments.
Definition: A file format used for documents that preserves their formatting across different
platforms. Example: Many e-books and official documents are distributed in PDF format.
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Definition: A device that provides electrical power to a computer or other electronic devices.
Definition: A file format used for lossless image compression and displaying transparent
backgrounds.
Definition: In the context of computer networking, a PDC is a server that centrally manages
user accounts, security policies, and authentication for a Windows domain. It is responsible
for maintaining a centralized database of user accounts, validating user logins, and
coordinating domain-wide security functions.
Definition: In the context of computers and networking, PING is a utility used to test the
reachability and responsiveness of a host or network device over an IP (Internet Protocol)
network.
Definition: A two-dimensional barcode that can store various types of data, such as URLs,
text, or contact information.
Definition: A set of measures used to ensure the performance and reliability of network
services.
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Definition: A type of computer memory that stores permanent data that cannot be modified
or erased. It contains firmware or software instructions that are essential for booting up the
computer.
Definition: A technology that combines multiple physical disk drives into a single logical
unit for improved performance, fault tolerance, or both. It provides data redundancy and
can offer increased storage capacity or faster data access.
Definition: A color model that represents colors by combining varying intensities of red,
green, and blue light. It is widely used in computer graphics and digital displays to create a
wide range of colors.
Definition: A technology that uses radio waves to automatically identify and track objects.
RFID tags contain electronically stored information that can be read by RFID readers,
enabling efficient inventory management, access control, and more.
Definition: A standard connector used for Ethernet networking cables. It has eight pins and
is commonly used for wired internet connections, such as those found in local area networks
(LANs).
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Definition: A standard connector used for telephone cables. It typically has six pins and is
commonly used for connecting landline telephones to telephone lines.
Definition: A web feed format used to publish frequently updated content, such as news
articles or blog posts. RSS allows users to subscribe to their favorite websites and receive
automatic updates without having to visit each site individually.
Definition: A battery-powered clock that keeps track of the current time even when a
computer is powered off. It enables functions like scheduling, timestamping, and time
synchronization in computer systems.
Definition: A Remote Access Trojan is a type of malicious software that allows unauthorized
individuals to remotely control a computer system.
Definition: A protocol used for sending email messages between servers. SMTP is
responsible for the transfer and delivery of email over the internet.
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Definition: A computer interface used for connecting storage devices, such as hard disk
drives and solid-state drives, to a motherboard. SATA provides high-speed data transfer and
is widely used in modern computers.
Definition: A storage device that uses integrated circuit assemblies to store data
persistently. SSDs are faster, more reliable, and more energy-efficient than traditional hard
disk drives.
Definition: A network protocol used for file sharing, printer sharing, and communication
between computers in a network. SMB enables users to access shared files and resources on
a local network.
Definition: A protocol used for managing and monitoring network devices, such as routers,
switches, and servers. SNMP allows administrators to collect information and manage
network devices from a central management system.
Definition: A set of standards for connecting and transferring data between computers and
peripheral devices, such as hard drives, scanners, and printers. SCSI supports fast data
transfer rates and allows multiple devices to be connected in a chain.
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Definition: SGML is a markup language that was developed in the 1980s as a standard for
defining and describing the structure and content of documents. It provides a framework
for creating markup languages and defines a set of rules for creating document types and
specifying their structure.
Definition: TCP is a network protocol that provides reliable, ordered, and error-checked
delivery of data over IP networks. It is one of the main protocols in the Internet protocol
suite.
TB: Terabyte
Definition: A terabyte is a unit of digital information storage that represents one trillion
bytes. It is commonly used to measure the capacity of large storage devices and computer
systems.
Definition: TFT is a technology used in flat-panel displays, such as LCD monitors and
televisions. It provides improved image quality and faster response times compared to
older display technologies.
Definition: A top-level domain is the highest level in the hierarchical domain name system of
the internet. It is the part of a domain name that appears after the last dot, such as .com,
.org, or .net.
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TTY: Teletypewriter
Definition: TTY is a device used for text communication over a telecommunication line. It
converts typed characters into electrical signals that can be transmitted and received by
other TTY devices.
Definition: USB is a widely used standard for connecting peripheral devices, such as
keyboards, mice, printers, and storage devices, to a computer. It allows for easy plug-and-
play functionality and data transfer.
Definition: UPS is a device that provides battery backup power to computers and other
electronic devices in case of power outages or fluctuations. It helps prevent data loss and
equipment damage due to sudden power loss.
Definition: A URL is a specific web address that indicates the location of a resource on the
internet. It consists of a protocol (such as HTTP or HTTPS), a domain name, and optional path
and parameters
Definition: UNIX is a powerful and versatile operating system that was developed in the
1970s. It provides a multi-user, multitasking environment and is widely used in servers,
workstations, and supercomputers.
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Definition: UI refers to the visual elements and controls through which users interact with
software or hardware devices. It includes graphical user interfaces (GUIs), command-line
interfaces (CLIs), and other input/output mechanisms.
Definition: UDP is a network protocol that allows the transmission of datagrams over IP
networks. Unlike TCP, it does not provide error checking or guaranteed delivery of packets,
making it suitable for real-time applications.
Definition: A URL is a specific web address that indicates the location of a resource on the
internet. It consists of a protocol (such as HTTP or HTTPS), a domain name, and optional path
and parameters.
Definition: UTP is a type of cable commonly used for Ethernet networks. It consists of
twisted pairs of copper wires, which help reduce electromagnetic interference. UTP cables
are widely used in home and office networking.
Definition: UEFI is a modern firmware interface that replaces the traditional BIOS in many
computers. It provides advanced features, such as support for larger storage devices, secure
boot, and faster startup times.
Definition: It was one of the earliest commercial computers and is considered to be the first
successful general-purpose electronic digital computer.
Definition: A VPN is a secure network connection that allows users to access and transmit
data over a public network, such as the internet, as if they were directly connected to a
private network. It provides encryption and anonymity for online activities.
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Definition: VGA is a display standard that was widely used in older computer systems. It
defines the resolution, color depth, and refresh rate of the display, and uses an analog signal
to transmit video.
Definition: VoIP is a technology that enables voice communication over the internet rather
than traditional telephone lines. It converts voice signals into digital data packets and
transmits them over IP networks.
Definition: VRAM is a type of memory used in graphics cards to store image and video data
that is being rendered on a display. It provides faster access to data compared to system
memory, resulting in better graphics performance.
Definition: A VLAN is a logical network that allows network devices to be grouped together,
even if they are physically located on different network segments. It helps enhance security,
manageability, and efficiency in large networks.
Definition: VDI is a technology that allows users to access virtual desktop environments
hosted on remote servers. It centralizes desktop management, improves scalability, and
enables remote access from various devices.
Definition: VNC is a remote desktop sharing protocol that allows a user to view and control
a computer from a remote location. It provides a graphical interface to access and interact
with the remote system.
Definition: The term "virus" is now commonly used on its own to refer to malicious software
that infects computer systems. It's important to note that the term "virus" is often used
more broadly to encompass various types of malicious software, including worms, Trojans,
ransomware, and other forms of malware.
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A WAN is a network that spans a large geographical area, connecting multiple local area
networks (LANs) and other devices. It enables long-distance communication and is often used
for interconnecting branch offices or remote locations.
Definition: A WLAN is a type of local area network that uses wireless communication to
connect devices within a limited area, such as a home, office, or campus. It enables wireless
access to a network and the internet.
Definition: WYSIWYG refers to a type of user interface that allows content creators to view a
document or design exactly as it will appear when printed or displayed. It provides a visual
representation of the final output during the editing process.
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Definition: WORM refers to a type of optical storage media that allows data to be written
only once and read multiple times. It is commonly used for archival storage and data
retention purposes.
Definition: The World Wide Web (WWW) is an information system that allows users to access
and navigate web pages and resources using the internet. It consists of interconnected
documents and other media accessible through URLs.
Definition: XML is a markup language used for structuring and organizing data in a human-
readable format. It is widely used for data storage, exchange, and representation on the
internet.
Definition: XHTML is a markup language that combines the syntax of HTML with the
extensibility of XML. It provides stricter rules for document structure and is designed to be
compatible with both HTML and XML parsers.
Definition: XSS is a type of security vulnerability that occurs when a web application allows
malicious scripts to be injected into web pages viewed by other users. It can be used to steal
sensitive information or perform unauthorized actions.
Definition: XaaS is a collective term that encompasses various cloud computing services
delivered over the internet. It includes Software as a Service (SaaS), Platform as a Service
(PaaS), and Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS), among others.
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Definition: YUV is a color encoding system used in video and digital imaging. It represents
colors as three components: Y (luma or brightness), U (chrominance blue), and V
(chrominance red).
Definition: Y2K refers to the Year 2000 problem, also known as the Millennium Bug. It was a
computer bug that caused concerns about the rollover from December 31, 1999, to January
1, 2000, due to the use of two-digit representations of years in computer systems.
Definition: ZIP is a protocol used for compressing and archiving files. It reduces the file size,
making it easier to store and transfer files. ZIP files can be extracted using various software
programs.
ZFS is a combined file system and logical volume manager designed to ensure data integrity
and storage efficiency. It provides advanced features such as data deduplication, compression,
and snapshots.
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ZIF is an image format used for storing high-resolution images that can be zoomed in
without losing quality. It achieves this by storing multiple levels of detail in the image file,
allowing users to zoom in and out smoothly.
Definition: ZAP is a software package that allows applications to be installed and run
without requiring any user intervention. It automates the installation process and
eliminates the need for manual configuration.
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