Uncategorized | TechSolutions, Inc.

MICROSOFT COPILOT

TechSolutions — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 18:54:46 +0000

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into daily workflows has become increasingly common in recent times. This is due to the growth of AI models and the general public gaining access to these tools. Microsoft CoPilot is a prime example of how AI can be harnessed to automate tasks, streamline processes, and enhance overall productivity.

CoPilot is a versatile chatbot that leverages sophisticated language learning models. It seamlessly integrates into Microsoft’s suite of applications, functioning as a virtual assistant. It can assist with a wide range of tasks, such as note-taking during Teams meetings and generating rough draft documents in Word.

As the past year and a half has demonstrated, AI is no longer a novelty but a practical tool driving efficiency and innovation. Microsoft, foreseeing this trend, made strategic investments in OpenAI, paving the way for CoPilot’s development. OpenAI and ChatGPT were the hivemind for consumer facing AI toolsets and investing in this allowed Microsoft to take a running leap into developing their own version of the tool. Unlike traditional AI tools, CoPilot stands out for its more hands-on approach, which actively engages with users to make contextual jumps and fulfill tasks at a higher level than other types of AI.

The beauty of CoPilot lies in its ability to automate repetitive tasks, freeing up valuable time for users to focus on more strategic endeavors in their day-to-day business. For instance, in Word, CoPilot can generate initial drafts based on user prompts, effectively overcoming writer’s block. In Excel, it can even create pivot tables in seconds and perform complex operations, simplifying complex data analysis processes. In Outlook, it can search for emails with relevant info and simplify searches from an exact item to the concept of the item. By augmenting user capabilities and reducing manual labor, CoPilot significantly enhances business efficiency.

While CoPilot offers unparalleled convenience for many types of businesses, it’s crucial to address security concerns before implementation. Microsoft emphasizes the importance of ensuring the entire ecosystem is securely configured before integrating CoPilot, as simply flipping the switch to implement the tool can potentially cause issues in an environment without the proper security configurations. Measures such as data loss prevention and malicious email prevention must be put in place to mitigate potential risks, along with any other types of cyber threat detection and response applications. By prioritizing security protocols, organizations can confidently leverage CoPilot without compromising sensitive data.

Integrating CoPilot into workflows requires a structured approach, and getting access for your employees is not something that can happen overnight. Businesses must provide comprehensive educational resources to users, detailing its functionalities and deployment processes. Additionally, training initiatives are essential to familiarize staff with CoPilot’s capabilities and maximize its utility within the organization.

At TechSolutions, we see CoPilot as a groundbreaking technology for businesses and their users. We hope to see more developments like this and look forward to implementing more automation and AI into our own workflows. Microsoft CoPilot represents a huge shift in AI-driven assistance, empowering users to accomplish tasks more efficiently and effectively. As organizations continue to embrace this form of digital transformation, CoPilot truly showcases the boundless possibilities of AI integration in the modern workplace.

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TSI EMPLOYEE LUNCH AND LEARNS

TechSolutions — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 18:50:23 +0000

We had the privilege to host a series of Lunch and Learn sessions for our employees run by our senior engineering staff at the end of January. This initiative was built to help increase and update knowledge for our technical staff members on current technologies and cybersecurity ideas. This served as a first step towards the development of our new internal training program. As the year progresses, we will see more of these training and collaboration sessions, and we are excited to see our engineering and technical team grow.

I sat down with Chris Scerbo, one of our senior engineers, to hear his thoughts on these new learning opportunities. He explained, “[We are] Bringing techs into these and trying to level them up, get them certified [in more software programs], get cutting-edge industry training into them, and improve our team to make everyone a more efficient, productive, and helpful resource. We want to be able to solve issues at the drop of a hat and get our clients answers quickly and correctly.”

The focus of the sessions was network troubleshooting and network technologies, with a bigger goal to develop our internal training programs and promote tech and engineer development. The sessions were the kick-off for people to step into the new training process and showcase our Training Task Force, which is comprised of five staff members who are Senior System Engineers and System Engineers. Everyone on this 5-person team heads up a specific field where they have expert knowledge, including networking, platform as a service (PaaS), automation and scripting, cyber security, and system administration. Together, these fields build fully-rounded and knowledgeable technicians.

When asked what his favorite part of the lunch and learn sessions was, Chris said, “Seeing everyone’s faces and interacting with everyone was my favorite thing. It has been 3-4 years since seeing people in person at the office regularly and making those connections was amazing. Getting people connected was another goal of these trainings and seeing it happen was the best part.”

The sessions were received positively by our techs, and everyone is happy and excitedly onboard to participate. We are glad to see our employees’ passion for education and skill development, and we look forward to the great things these training sessions will allow us to do for our clients.

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Why hybrid cloud solutions matter

Tech Advisory — Fri, 02 Jun 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Hybrid cloud solutions are becoming increasingly popular because they offer numerous benefits to businesses of all sizes. By combining the capabilities of both the public and the private cloud, organizations can leverage the strengths of each cloud environment to create a versatile and scalable infrastructure. In this article, we will explore the top benefits of a hybrid cloud solution and how it can revolutionize the way businesses operate.

Flexibility and scalability

By leveraging both public and private cloud environments, organizations can dynamically adjust their infrastructure to meet changing demands. Businesses can quickly scale up resources during peak periods or scale down during slower periods, ensuring optimal performance and cost-efficiency.

This flexibility enables organizations to respond swiftly to market fluctuations, customer demands, and evolving business requirements, giving them a competitive edge.

Improved security and compliance

Security concerns have always been a top priority for businesses when adopting cloud technologies. With a hybrid cloud solution, organizations can address security and compliance requirements more effectively. Critical and sensitive data can be stored in the private cloud, where organizations have greater control and can implement stringent security measures.

At the same time, nonsensitive data and workloads can be offloaded to the public cloud, where they’re protected by the robust security measures provided by established cloud service providers.

Cost savings

With a hybrid cloud solution, nonsensitive workloads with less stringent performance requirements can be moved to the public cloud, taking advantage of its cost-effective pay-as-you-go model. Meanwhile, more critical workloads can be hosted on the private cloud, allowing organizations to maintain control and avoid the potential risks associated with public cloud environments.

By strategically managing their cloud resources, organizations can optimize costs, maximize return on investment, and allocate their IT budget more efficiently.

Improved disaster recovery and business continuity measures

Natural disasters, hardware failures, and cyberattacks can disrupt business operations and cause significant profit and data loss. A hybrid cloud solution provides robust disaster recovery and business continuity capabilities. These allow organizations to replicate critical data and applications in both public and private clouds as well as quickly restore operations by switching to the backup environment in the event of a disaster.

The redundancy and resilience offered by a hybrid cloud solution enable organizations to maintain high availability, protect against data loss, and quickly recover from disasters, minimizing the impact on productivity and customer satisfaction.

By leveraging the strengths of both the public and the private cloud, businesses can create a robust and efficient IT infrastructure that aligns with their specific needs and drives innovation and growth. To learn more about hybrid cloud solutions, talk to our cloud experts today.

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From data to success: Leveraging dashboards for business growth

Tech Advisory — Wed, 31 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Businesses must not only collect data but also be able to analyze it effectively in order to make informed, data-driven decisions. This is where dashboards come into play. Dashboards serve as robust business intelligence tools that offer a visual depiction of important metrics and insights, enabling organizations to effectively monitor their performance. Let’s explore some of the ways businesses can leverage dashboards.

Marketing

Marketing professionals analyze vast amounts of data from multiple sources. With dashboards, they can easily compare, sort, and analyze raw data so that they can easily identify patterns, predict trends, forecast sales, and gain other meaningful insights. This empowers them to create more effective marketing campaigns.

Sales

Sales dashboards provide real-time visibility into product performance, revenue growth, and customer trends. By syncing with raw data, these dashboards ensure that the charts and reports are always up to date, eliminating the need for manual data entry. With a clear overview of their sales data, businesses can identify high-potential products, evaluate market demand, and make informed decisions to optimize sales strategies.

Social media management

Managing social media accounts for a business can be a time-consuming task, especially when dealing with multiple platforms. Fortunately, social media management dashboards offer a comprehensive solution by consolidating all social media accounts into a single interface. This centralized dashboard provides deep insights into campaign performance, engagement metrics, and audience demographics. With an integrated view of their social media presence, businesses can streamline content creation, analyze audience behavior, and create effective social media campaigns.

Finance

Presenting financial data clearly and concisely is crucial for effective business decision-making. However, creating financial reports can be complex and prone to misinterpretation. Dashboards simplify this process by allowing financial analysts to display sensitive data, such as customer invoices, revenue goals progress, and business expenses, in an understandable graphical format. With visually appealing and interactive charts, organizations can gain a comprehensive overview of their financial performance, enabling them to identify areas of improvement and make informed financial decisions.

Project management

Project management dashboards provide a centralized platform where team members can access project requirements, deadlines, and responsibilities as well as track progress, communicate updates, and ensure everyone is aligned toward project goals. This enhances teamwork and reduces inefficiencies, which ultimately drives project success.

To enjoy the benefits of dashboards and other cutting-edge IT tools, talk with our consultants so we can provide solutions tailored to your specific business needs.

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Improving productivity: How to disable disruptive Windows 11 settings

Tech Advisory — Mon, 29 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000

With every new update, Windows 11 brings a range of new features and enhancements to improve user experience. However, it also introduces some disruptive settings that may not align with everyone’s preferences. To help you with this issue, we’ll discuss these settings in Windows 11 and provide step-by-step instructions on how to disable them.

Disabling Cortana’s voice activation

One of the notable changes in Windows 11 is the integration of Cortana, Microsoft’s virtual assistant, into the taskbar. However, some users might find Cortana’s voice activation disruptive or unnecessary. To disable it, follow these steps:

Press the Windows button + I to open the Settings page.
Go to Apps > Installed apps > Cortana.
Click on the three dots next to the Cortana app and choose Advanced options.
Under Runs at log-in, set the toggle to Off.

Disabling system sounds

Windows 11 includes various system sounds that play during specific events or actions, such as startup, shutdown, and notifications. While most users don’t mind these sounds, they can be distracting, especially during work hours. To disable system sounds, follow these steps:

Press the Windows button + I to open the Settings page.
Go to Personalization > Themes > Sounds.
Under Sound Scheme, choose No Sounds from the drop-down menu.
Click on Apply then OK.

Disabling Windows Snap assist

Windows Snap Assist is a feature that automatically organizes and resizes windows when dragging them to the edge of the screen. Many users find this helpful, especially when they’re multitasking. However, some users find it disruptive or prefer to manage Windows manually. To disable Windows Snap Assist, follow these steps:

Press the Windows button + I to open the Settings page.
Go to System > Multitasking > Snap Windows and click the toggle to turn off Snap Assist.

Disabling Windows tips and suggestions

Windows 11 provides helpful tips and suggestions to guide users and introduce new features. However, if you find these prompts bothersome or prefer a more streamlined experience, you can disable them by following these steps:

Press the Windows button + I to open the Settings page.
Go to System > Notifications > Additional settings.
Uncheck the Get tips and suggestions when using Windows checkbox.

Adjusting these settings allows you to regain control over your operating system and create an environment that works best for you. If you want to learn more about how to optimize your Windows 11 experience, give our experts a call today.

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Your guide to dealing with distributed spam distraction

Tech Advisory — Fri, 26 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Distributed spam distraction (DSD) is a sophisticated cyberattack employed by malicious actors to steal valuable information from businesses. But unlike traditional spam, which floods inboxes with unsolicited messages, DSD takes a more covert approach. In the following sections, we will delve into the intricacies of this cyberattack, understand its mechanisms, and discuss countermeasures to combat it.

How DSD works

In a DSD attack, spammers employ various tactics. One common approach is to distribute the spam load across a large number of IP addresses. By sending relatively small volumes of spam from each source, spammers aim to avoid triggering alarms or raising suspicion. This technique is often referred to as “snowshoe spamming” due to the analogy of distributing the load across multiple points to minimize detection.

Another tactic used in DSD is the utilization of compromised computers or botnets. Spammers hijack a network of infected computers and use them for spamming activities. This approach not only increases the volume of spam, but it also makes detection more difficult because it involves multiple IP addresses and geographical locations.

Furthermore, spammers may employ techniques that mimic legitimate email traffic that make it harder for spam filters to distinguish between real and spam messages, increasing the chances of spam slipping through.

The implications of falling victim to DSD attacks

DSD can disrupt normal operations, drain network resources, and undermine trust in digital communication channels. This can lead to financial losses, identity theft, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and even compromise the security of entire networks.

Mitigating the effects of DSD

Addressing the challenge of DSD attacks requires a multifaceted approach. Advanced spam filters that employ machine learning algorithms and behavioral analysis techniques can help identify patterns and characteristics associated with spam messages. These filters can adapt and learn from new spamming techniques to improve their detection accuracy over time.

Collaboration and information sharing among organizations and security experts are also crucial in combating DSD. By sharing cybersecurity insights, threat intelligence, and best practices, organizations and experts can stay updated on emerging spamming techniques and collectively develop effective countermeasures.

Additionally, user education and awareness play a vital role. Individuals should be cautious when sharing their email addresses online, and avoid clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from unknown sources. Businesses should also regularly update their security software to mitigate the risk of falling victim to spam and other cyberthreats.

By understanding the intricacies of DSD and implementing robust security measures, organizations can minimize the impact of this cyberattack and ensure their inboxes remain free from unwanted messages. For more information about spam prevention, give our experts a call today.

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A guide to verifying Android apps

Tech Advisory — Wed, 24 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Verifying the authenticity and safety of apps before installing them is crucial to protect your device and personal information. There are numerous malicious apps in the digital landscape, so it’s important to ensure you only download trustworthy apps. Here’s an essential guide on how to verify Android apps effectively.

Check app permissions and reviews

When considering an app for installation, start by reviewing the app’s permissions and user reviews. Android apps typically require certain permissions to function correctly, but excessive or unnecessary permissions could indicate a potential security risk. Review the requested permissions and compare them with the app’s intended functionality. If the permissions seem irrelevant to the app’s purpose, it might be best to avoid installing it. Additionally, pay attention to reviews that highlight any security or privacy concerns, as they can provide valuable insights into the app’s trustworthiness.

Leverage Google Play Protect

Google Play Protect helps ensure the security of your apps and the privacy of your data. This robust feature conducts comprehensive checks on both apps and devices, proactively identifying and flagging any potentially harmful behavior. From running safety checks on apps prior to downloading from the Google Play Store to alerting you about potentially risky apps, Google Play Protect offers a range of safeguards to keep your Android experience secure.

Download apps only from trusted sources

To reduce the risk of installing malicious apps, it is recommended to download apps only from trusted sources, such as the official Google Play Store, Amazon Appstore, and other reputable third-party app stores. These platforms have measures in place to detect and remove potentially harmful apps, providing an additional layer of security. Note, however, that even reputable app stores are not completely safe.

In any case, it’s best to avoid downloading apps from unfamiliar websites or sources, as they may distribute modified or counterfeit versions of popular apps that contain malware.

Perform a background check

Before installing an app, take a moment to research the developer and their reputation. A simple Google search can reveal valuable information about the developer’s track record, any past security incidents associated with their apps, or any notable controversies. Established developers with a positive reputation are more likely to prioritize user security and privacy, making their apps a safer choice. If the developer’s background raises concerns or if there is limited information available, exercise caution and consider alternative apps from more reputable sources.

Use mobile security solutions

Installing a trusted mobile security solution on your Android device can provide an extra layer of defense against malicious apps. These security apps can scan downloaded apps for potential threats, identify suspicious behaviors, and even block installations of harmful apps. Look for reputable security apps in the official app stores, read user reviews and ratings, and choose one that suits your needs. Regularly update the security app to ensure it stays current with the latest threats.

Need assistance in safeguarding your mobile devices and/or computers? Contact our team of IT professionals for valuable insights and expert guidance.

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Upgrading your Mac: The key indicators to consider

Tech Advisory — Mon, 22 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000

Upgrading to a new Mac can bring a host of benefits, from improved performance and enhanced features to better compatibility with the latest software updates. In this article, we will delve into the factors to consider when deciding if it’s time to replace your Mac.

Performance and speed

If your Mac has become sluggish, frequently freezes, or takes forever to complete basic tasks, it could be a sign that the hardware is struggling to keep up with your needs. Newer Mac models often come equipped with faster processors, more efficient RAM, and improved graphics capabilities, resulting in a significant boost in performance. Consider your current usage requirements and evaluate whether a new Mac can offer the speed and responsiveness you require to complete your tasks.

Compatibility with software and updates

Over time, older Mac models may struggle to keep up with the demands of the latest software versions. If you find yourself unable to install or run certain applications or encounter compatibility issues with essential software, it may be an indication that your Mac is reaching its limits. Upgrading to a newer model ensures that you can seamlessly access the latest software updates and take advantage of their features without any hindrance.

Hardware limitations

Another factor to consider is whether your current Mac’s hardware meets your changing needs. If you’re performing resource-intensive tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, or running demanding software, your older Mac may not have the necessary processing power, storage capacity, or graphics capabilities to handle these tasks efficiently. Replacing your Mac with a newer model can provide you with more robust hardware specifications, allowing you to tackle demanding projects with ease.

Long-term cost and future-proofing

While upgrading to a new Mac can be expensive, it’s essential to consider the long-term cost and potential future-proofing benefits. Older Mac models may require more frequent repairs or encounter compatibility issues with future software updates, resulting in additional expenses and potential productivity loss.

Investing in a new Mac with the latest hardware and software ensures that you have a device that can support your needs for years to come. Additionally, newer models often come with extended warranties and support, providing you with peace of mind and protection against unexpected repair costs.

User experience and quality of life

Upgrading your Mac can significantly enhance your overall user experience and quality of life. Newer models come with sleeker designs, improved display technologies, and better battery life. These improvements can contribute to a more enjoyable and immersive computing experience, whether you’re working on important projects, watching high-definition videos, or engaging in creative endeavors.

Features such as Touch ID, Face ID, and larger trackpads can streamline your daily workflow and make your interactions with the device more intuitive. Consider how these improvements can positively impact your computing experience and whether they align with your expectations and preferences.

Ecosystem integration and future Apple services

If you’re already invested in the Apple ecosystem with other devices such as iPhones, iPads, or Apple Watches, upgrading your Mac can further enhance the integration and synergy between your devices. Continuity features such as Handoff, Universal Clipboard, and iCloud synchronization allow for seamless transitions and sharing of content across your Apple devices.

Additionally, with the introduction of new services and technologies such as Apple Silicon and macOS updates, owning a newer Mac can provide you with access to the latest advancements in Apple’s ecosystem, further enriching your digital experience.

Taking the time to consider the factors mentioned above will help you decide whether it’s time to replace your Mac computer. If you want to learn more about replacing your Mac, give our Apple experts a call today.

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Questions to consider before replacing your servers

Tech Advisory — Fri, 19 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000

When it comes to replacing your company’s servers, you should review aspects of your existing server infrastructure and consider the implications of the upgrade. Answering questions related to reliability, performance, security, and scalability will allow you to make the right decisions and ensure the upgrade aligns with your company’s long-term goals.

What is the condition of your current servers?

Answering this question will help you decide whether it’s time to replace your servers. How long have you had the servers? Are they still performing at optimal levels? Are there any recurring issues that disrupt your operations? By having a clearer understanding of the condition of the existing infrastructure, you can make a better, informed decision.

What are your server capacity and performance requirements?

Do your existing servers meet the demands of your user base, data storage, and applications? Take note of your servers’ performance metrics such as memory and CPU utilization to pinpoint any issues in performance that can affect the productivity of your employees. Understanding your current and future server capacity needs is essential when considering a replacement server.

What is your budget?

Purchasing new servers is a huge financial investment, so it’s important to have a budget that’s within your company’s capabilities. When talking to vendors, you should ask about the total cost of ownership, including software licenses, support, and maintenance. Consider whether leasing or hosting your servers on the cloud can provide a more cost-effective alternative to buying new ones. By determining your budget constraints, you can narrow down your options and make a more sound decision.

Can the new servers integrate with the existing infrastructure?

Ensuring the replacement servers work well with your current setup is extremely important. The new servers should integrate seamlessly with your existing applications, storage systems, and network to prevent disrupting critical business operations.

What are your security and compliance requirements?

Replacing servers is a good opportunity for you to improve your company’s security measures. They should be designed to meet industry compliance requirements and come with security features such as intrusion detection, access control, and data encryption. This ensures that the new hardware can align with your security requirements and protect sensitive information.

What is the expected life span of the replacement servers?

When looking for new servers, you should consider a vendor’s commitment to providing support, patches, and updates to their hardware. Servers with a long life span can minimize disruptions in the future as well as save you money.

What are your future growth plans and scalability requirements?

You should also think about the growth plans and scalability requirements of your organization. The replacement servers should be able to accommodate sudden increases in user base, data volume, and application demand.

In addition, consider the servers’ virtualization capabilities, expandability, and the ability to add or remove server nodes. Servers that can easily scale with your company’s growth will ensure long-term efficiency and productivity.

By thoroughly reviewing these questions, you can ensure that your new servers can easily support your company’s technology needs and future growth. To learn more about server replacement, give our experts a call today.

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Improving your business’s on-hold strategy with VoIP

Tech Advisory — Wed, 17 May 2023 12:00:00 +0000

For businesses, the on-hold experience can either be a missed opportunity or a chance to showcase professionalism and exceptional customer service. With Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology, enhancing the on-hold experience has become easier than ever. By implementing a few simple strategies, you can turn your clients’ waiting time into a valuable and engaging interaction. This article delves into the top VoIP features that will help you create an on-hold experience that exceeds your clients’ expectations, leaving them satisfied and eager to do business with you.

Customizable on-hold messages

VoIP systems offer the ability to customize on-hold messages that can make clients’ waiting time productive. Rather than subjecting callers to monotonous music or repetitive messages, you can create tailored messages that engage and inform clients. By utilizing this feature, you can share important updates, promotions, or interesting facts about your business’s products and services.

Call queuing

One of the frustrations clients face when placed on hold is the uncertainty about their position in the queue. VoIP systems address this issue with call queuing, which provides callers with relevant information, such as their position in line and estimated wait time. This feature enhances transparency and manages client expectations, reducing frustration and creating a more positive on-hold experience. Clients feel informed and empowered, knowing their time is respected.

Interactive voice response (IVR) systems

With IVR systems, you can create customized menus and options for callers to navigate while on hold. By implementing IVR systems within VoIP technology, you can provide self-service options for clients, such as checking account balances, retrieving information, or scheduling appointments. This not only improves efficiency but also empowers clients to find answers to their queries independently, saving time and creating a sense of control during the time they’re on hold.

Music on hold

While traditional on-hold music can be uninteresting, VoIP systems offer the flexibility to select music that aligns with a business’s brand image and customer preferences. Choosing appropriate and enjoyable music creates a pleasant atmosphere, reducing stress and improving the overall on-hold experience. Additionally, some VoIP systems allow businesses to personalize music choices based on factors such as caller demographics or the purpose of the call, further tailoring the experience to the caller’s preferences.

Callback functionality

Instead of keeping clients on hold indefinitely, you can offer them the option to request a callback when an agent becomes available. This feature eliminates the need for clients to wait on the line, allowing them to continue with their day while ensuring that their call is prioritized. By providing this convenience, your business can show its commitment to excellent customer service, enhancing satisfaction levels and customer loyalty.

The on-hold experience is a crucial touchpoint in customer communication, and with the advancements in VoIP technology, your business has the opportunity to turn these moments into valuable interactions. If you want to learn more about the power of VoIP and how to leverage it for your organization, call us today.

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