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<h2 dir="ltr" style="text-align:center" id="tag-2"><strong>What is a WiFi router?</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">A router is a device that facilitates communication between your home's Internet-connected gadgets and the Internet. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">As its name suggests, the router works to route the Internet connection around a particular area. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">It’s like a connection point between the Internet network outside and the devices.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify"><img alt="speed-test-common-problems-causing-wi-fi" src="https://gospeedcheck.com/filemanager/data-images/speed-test-common-problems-causing-wi-fi-router-is-poor-performance-1.png" style="display:block; height:430px; margin-left:auto; margin-right:auto; width:640px"></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em>A WiFi router</em></p>

<h2 dir="ltr" style="text-align:center" id="tag-11"><strong>How does a WiFi router work?</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">A router connects devices inside a network by passing data packets between them. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">This data may be sent online or from one device to another. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">The router accomplishes this by giving each networked device a local IP address.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">By doing this, you can prevent data packets from straying around the network and ending up somewhere they shouldn't.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">If your router doesn’t work to its full capacity, it’s hard for your devices to get the full connection. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">In other words, any problems with your wireless routers should also lead to issues with your Internet experience.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify"><img alt="A WiFi router is important" src="http://gospeedcheck.com/filemanager/data-images/imgs/200220927/how-long-do-routers-last-2.jpg" style="display:block; height:377px; margin-left:auto; margin-right:auto; width:640px"></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em>A WiFi router is important</em></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Being that important, hence, any devices needed to access the Internet must be connected to the router first.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">The Wi-Fi signal will be stronger enough for various online activities when a fast and stable Internet connection goes with a high-quality router.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">However, when it comes to wireless routers, many people mistake them for modems.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Read on to figure out the truth…</p>

<h2 dir="ltr" style="text-align:center" id="tag-27"><strong>How do modems differ from routers?</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Indeed, it is simple to confuse a router for a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Modem" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">modem</a>, as modems are typically equipped with a built-in router. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Despite that, the functions of these two gadgets are entirely different. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">The only thing you'd have without a modem is your local network and no method to access the Internet.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">A router is required to connect various devices in a network, including your modem, whereas a modem is required to connect to the Internet via your ISP. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Thus, the router enables data transfer between your modem and several devices.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Data is sent to and from the Internet through the modem.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify"><img alt="Router and modem are different" src="http://gospeedcheck.com/filemanager/data-images/imgs/200220927/how-long-do-routers-last-3.jpg" style="display:block; height:229px; margin-left:auto; margin-right:auto; width:640px"></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em>Router and modem are different</em></p>

<h2 dir="ltr" style="text-align:center" id="tag-40"><strong>Common reasons causing WiFi router slow Internet speed</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">As mentioned earlier, a stable Internet connection always goes with a good router.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">In other words, poor Internet connectivity may be caused by a bad router.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Yet, your WiFi router’s performance is affected by different factors. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">From the position where you place your router, lifespan of router, how you operate it, and more, all of these things can make this device work improperly.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">They can lead to poor WiFi signal and weak WiFi speed for sure.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify"><img alt="What causes the WiFi router’s poor performance?" src="http://gospeedcheck.com/filemanager/data-images/imgs/200220927/how-long-do-routers-last-4.jpg" style="display:block; height:553px; margin-left:auto; margin-right:auto; width:640px"></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em>What causes the WiFi router’s poor performance?</em></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify"><strong>How do I know if my router is bad?</strong></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Take a look at 5 common factors that can cause the poor performance of your WiFi router!</p>

<h3 dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify" id="tag-54"><strong>Outdated router</strong></h3>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Let’s say you have a good Internet connection for your needs, but you are still not able to get as fast as expected.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Well, the reason here might be due to your older routers. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Older routers might slow your WiFi connection because they run old wireless standards. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify"><strong>How long does a wifi router last?</strong></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">What is the <strong>lifespan of a router</strong>?</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Well, the <strong>average router lifespan</strong> of a router is around 5 years.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">If your router is more than 5 years old, it’s likely not to be capable of fully supporting these days’ <strong><a href="https://gospeedcheck.com/article/high-speed-internet-vs-wifi-320" target="_blank">high speed internet vs wifi</a></strong>.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify"><img alt="Old WiFi routers can cause a poor performance" src="http://gospeedcheck.com/filemanager/data-images/imgs/200220927/how-long-do-routers-last-5.jpg" style="display:block; height:360px; margin-left:auto; margin-right:auto; width:640px"></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em>Old WiFi routers can cause a poor performance</em></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">In this case, upgrading the router seems like a good solution to improve your WiFi capabilities.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">For the best result, consider replacing it if possible.</p>

<h3 dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify" id="tag-74"><strong>Position of the router</strong></h3>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">WiFi signals are transmitted via the air, so the router placement affects the connection strength a lot. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">If it’s placed in the basement, the periphery of the house, or under the shelves, its WiFi signal will be hard to reach the places it needs to be.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">To know how the position affects the WiFi signal strength, you can run 2 different WiFi speed tests.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">One when you put the router at a high position and one when you put it at a low position. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Looking at the Internet speed test results, then you will see the difference.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify"><img alt="A bad WiFi replacement" src="http://gospeedcheck.com/filemanager/data-images/imgs/200220927/how-long-do-routers-last-6.jpg" style="display:block; height:488px; margin-left:auto; margin-right:auto; width:640px"></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em>A bad WiFi replacement</em></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Also, building materials and other large objects can block the signal and shorten your WiFi range. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">If around your router are physical obstacles, chances are the WiFi connection can’t be strong and fast.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">For this reason, it’s advisable to place your device in the home center and avoid as many obstacles as possible.</p>

<h3 dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify" id="tag-88"><strong>Router’s antenna</strong></h3>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">The position of the WiFi router antenna significantly impacts the WiFi speed and signal strength throughout your home.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">It is because the WiFi signal is absorbed and hindered by walls and metallic objects.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">So, pointing the router’s antenna in an inappropriate direction or using a weak, improper antenna design causes a poorer WiFi signal than it should be. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">If you experience weak Internet throughput and packet loss, then a weak antenna design may be the cause.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify"><img alt="How to position the router’s antenna?" src="http://gospeedcheck.com/filemanager/data-images/imgs/200220927/how-long-do-routers-last-7.jpg" style="display:block; height:379px; margin-left:auto; margin-right:auto; width:640px"></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em>How to position the router’s antenna?</em></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">It's always a smart idea to locate your router in a place where its antenna can be seen directly from wherever your device is, if at all possible. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Doing so will aid WiFi signal transmission across the house with reduced dissipation.</p>

<h3 dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify" id="tag-100"><strong>Wireless interference</strong></h3>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Electronic devices such as microwaves and TVs,... have the same radio frequencies as your WiFi signal.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Thus, they can directly interfere with your wireless Internet connection. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">The more devices with the same radio frequencies as the WiFi signal are active in the same area; the weaker the speed will be. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">That’s why you should keep your WiFi router away from other electronic devices.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Look at the picture below to know some wireless interferences.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">You’ll be surprised at several of them!</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify"><img alt="Some common WiFi interferences" src="http://gospeedcheck.com/filemanager/data-images/imgs/200220927/how-long-do-routers-last-8.jpg" style="display:block; height:323px; margin-left:auto; margin-right:auto; width:640px"></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em>Some common WiFi interferences</em></p>

<h3 dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify" id="tag-112"><strong>Running continuously without a reboot</strong></h3>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Your router is also a computer. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Inside it is also a CPU, memory, and local storage. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Like any computer, things can go wrong from time to time, causing the device to work improperly. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Therefore, giving the router a short break by a reboot might help it back to its peak performance.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Also, running Internet speed tests before and after restarting the router is a good way to check if a reboot can help you improve the router’s performance.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify"><img alt="speed-test-common-problems-causing-wi-fi" src="https://gospeedcheck.com/filemanager/data-images/speed-test-common-problems-causing-wi-fi-router-is-poor-performance-5.png" style="display:block; height:480px; margin-left:auto; margin-right:auto; width:640px"></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center">Consider rebooting your router</p>

<h2 dir="ltr" style="text-align:center" id="tag-122"><strong>What to do if a WiFi router slow Internet speed?</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">First, make sure you're getting slower speeds from your router. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Reboot your router, attach your testing computer to it via an Ethernet connection, and conduct another speed test. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Turn off bridge mode if you have a modem and router combo (wireless gateway).</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">After that, try these two primary solutions:</p>

<h3 dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify" id="tag-128"><strong>Examine your network for problems</strong></h3>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">If you're still getting consistent speed test results when connecting to your router via Ethernet, the problem is most likely due to anything in your WiFi network.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">If that is the case, try the following tips:</p>

<ul>
<li dir="ltr">
	<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Stop background programs using bandwidth</p>
	</li>
	<li dir="ltr">
	<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Update network driver</p>
	</li>
	<li dir="ltr">
	<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Use QoS settings</p>
	</li>
	<li dir="ltr">
	<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Kill bandwidth hogs</p>
	</li>
	<li dir="ltr">
	<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Fix network drivers</p>
	</li>
	<li dir="ltr">
	<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Get router upgrade</p>
	</li>
</ul>
<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify"><img alt="Check your network for problems" src="http://gospeedcheck.com/filemanager/data-images/imgs/200220927/how-long-do-routers-last-9.jpg" style="display:block; height:327px; margin-left:auto; margin-right:auto; width:553px"></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em>Check your network for problems</em></p>

<h3 dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify" id="tag-149"><strong>Replace your router</strong></h3>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">In case you’ve tried the aforementioned fixes but they don’t work, the reason may be due to your router.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Then, get a router replacement.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">But there comes a problem!</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">How to know if your router <strong>needs to be replaced</strong>? </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Well, keep reading to get the answer… </p>

<h2 dir="ltr" style="text-align:center" id="tag-157"><strong>Common signs you need a new router</strong></h2>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Your router manages all of your home's Internet connections. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">An old, out-of-date router can slow your WiFi, disrupt your connections, and expose your network to security threats.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">But how can you know when to replace router to<strong> <a href="https://gospeedcheck.com/article/increase-internet-speed-837">increase Internet speed</a></strong>?</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify"><strong>How do you know when you need a new router?</strong></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Check out 7 proven signs below!</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify"><img alt="7 signs that the time has come to replace your WiFi Router" src="http://gospeedcheck.com/filemanager/data-images/imgs/200220927/how-long-do-routers-last-10.jpg" style="display:block; height:1359px; margin-left:auto; margin-right:auto; width:639px"></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em>7 signs that the time has come to replace your WiFi Router</em></p>

<h3 dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify" id="tag-171"><strong>Your router is a complete breakdown</strong></h3>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">If your router entirely stops working, this is a major symptom that you’re having a <strong>broken router</strong>.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">That implies the device is no longer responsive to whatever buttons you push, or the indicator lights aren't lit to indicate it's working. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Once this happens, remember to double-check the connecting wires and cords that connect your modem and computer. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Check that they are correctly placed into their respective ports. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Similarly, confirm that the power source is functioning.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify"><img alt="A broken-down router" src="http://gospeedcheck.com/filemanager/data-images/imgs/200220927/how-long-do-routers-last-11.jpg" style="display:block; height:427px; margin-left:auto; margin-right:auto; width:640px"></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em>A broken-down router</em></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">When all other possibilities have been examined and the device is still not functioning properly, the router must be actually broken. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Repair or replace it. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">However, when the cost is considered, replacing it is the more efficient and realistic choice.</p>

<h3 dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify" id="tag-186"><strong>Your router is more than 5 years old</strong></h3>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Technology evolves rapidly. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Upgrading your <strong>old router</strong> regularly ensures you benefit from advancements in wireless speeds, efficiency, range, and network security.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify"><strong><a href="https://gospeedcheck.com/article/does-wifi-extender-slow-internet-speed-181">Does wifi extender slow internet speed</a> </strong>- We’ve answered earlier.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">In short, replace your outdated home networking equipment every five years. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">That way, you can stay current with technology while getting the most out of each router.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">You can also upgrade router regularly, especially if your routers wear out more quickly due to heavy use.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify"><img alt="Replace your router if it is more than 5 years of usage" src="http://gospeedcheck.com/filemanager/data-images/imgs/200220927/how-long-do-routers-last-12.jpg" style="display:block; height:360px; margin-left:auto; margin-right:auto; width:640px"></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em>Replace your router if it is more than 5 years of usage</em></p>

<h3 dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify" id="tag-201"><strong>You rent a WiFi router from your ISP</strong></h3>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">There are a few scenarios where renting equipment from your provider makes sense, but most people should buy their own. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">It ultimately saves money and gives you greater control over your home network.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">However, purchasing your router provides you with more control over the security of your home network and features. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">There are hundreds of routers with capabilities that can extend the WiFi range, accelerate online gaming connections, improve Internet security, etc.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">So, feel free to choose one!</p>

<h3 dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify" id="tag-208"><strong>Your WiFi network is suffering connectivity problems</strong></h3>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">How obvious it is!</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">A router’s whole function is to connect you to the Internet. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Unless it's doing its job, buy a <strong>new wireless router</strong>. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Connection problems might manifest as a loss of Internet connection or trouble connecting to the Internet. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Poor connectivity indicates that your router is nearing the end of its useful life.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">A broken router does not cause all Internet connection problems. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Instead, loose wires, modem troubles, provider network outages, and other factors can cause problems. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify"><img alt="There are many router-related issues" src="http://gospeedcheck.com/filemanager/data-images/imgs/200220927/how-long-do-routers-last-13.jpg" style="display:block; height:427px; margin-left:auto; margin-right:auto; width:640px"></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em>There are many router-related issues</em></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">However, there are a few simple approaches to determine the source of your problem.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Begin by checking the lights on your network and modem. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">If they're all green, it signifies everything is in working order, and your disconnect is most likely due to a router flaw.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">If not, replace it.</p>

<h3 dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify" id="tag-226"><strong>Your WiFi speeds and range are worsening</strong></h3>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Worsening WiFi range and speeds, like bad connectivity, are indicators that your router is malfunctioning.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">You don't need to get all these signs to replace your router.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Any of them indicates that the complicated processes inside your router are malfunctioning.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Routers, like most technology, tend to fail gradually over time rather than all at once.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">So, there's no purpose in retaining a router that will only worsen over time.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">If you're unsure whether your WiFi is slowing down, run a few Internet speed tests and track the results to monitor how your network performs over time.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Regarding this, try MySpeed at gospeedcheck.com, which is a reliable tool to check your Internet connectivity.</p>

<p style="text-align:justify"> </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify"><img alt="MySpeed is an Internet speed test website" src="http://gospeedcheck.com/filemanager/data-images/imgs/200220927/how-long-do-routers-last-14.jpg" style="display:block; height:280px; margin-left:auto; margin-right:auto; width:635px"></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em>MySpeed is an Internet speed test website</em></p>

<h3 dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify" id="tag-240"><strong>Your router runs hot</strong></h3>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">It is usual for routers to get warm when working, but if it is too hot to touch comfortably, it is overheated.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify"><strong>Router overheating</strong> indicates that it is overworked due to doing a lot of heavy lifting for the network.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">This is bad because it warns that your router can’t sustain your Internet use.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Poor ventilation can also contribute to overheating.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Routers normally have vents but no active cooling system.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Also, they shove them in nooks or locations without airflow for appropriate cooling.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">The enemy of your router is the heat.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">A router that frequently overheats will fail far sooner than one that maintains a reasonable temperature.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify"><img alt="Be careful of a hot router" src="http://gospeedcheck.com/filemanager/data-images/imgs/200220927/how-long-do-routers-last-15.jpg" style="display:block; height:320px; margin-left:auto; margin-right:auto; width:640px"></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em>Be careful of a hot router</em></p>

<h3 dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify" id="tag-255"><strong>Your router is lack support for newer devices</strong></h3>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Every year, several ISPs and tech companies release new gadgets with new CPUs and internal components. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">These new components are only compatible with routers that utilize cutting-edge technology. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">As a result, if you purchased your router a few years ago and are having trouble connecting to the majority of your devices, the device is likely outdated.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">Of course, the ideal method to remedy this issue is to buy a new router. </p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify">You can contact your ISP or go to a nearby tech store to find out which router is the finest.</p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:justify"><img alt="Replace your router if it is incompatible with some components" src="http://gospeedcheck.com/filemanager/data-images/imgs/200220927/how-long-do-routers-last-16.jpg" style="display:block; height:366px; margin-left:auto; margin-right:auto; width:640px"></p>

<p dir="ltr" style="text-align:center"><em>Replace your router if it is incompatible with some components</em></p>
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