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Mozilla Firefox Private Relay for proxy email addresses [OLD NEWS]

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Here, I will talk about the Mozilla Firefox Relay.

In today’s digital world, our email addresses act as gateways to our online lives. We use them for everything from social media accounts to online shopping and banking. But with this convenience comes a cost: our inboxes overflow with spam, unwanted marketing emails, and potential security risks.

This is where Mozilla Firefox Relay steps in. As a privacy-focused service offered by the creators of the Firefox web browser, Relay empowers you to reclaim control of your email address and safeguard your online identity.

READ ALSO: Surfing with Security: A Comprehensive Mozilla VPN Review

What is Firefox Relay?

What is Firefox Relay?

Firefox Relay is a free (with premium options) add-on and service that allows you to generate unique, random email aliases (also called masks) that forward to your primary inbox.

When you sign up for a new website, online service, or newsletter, you can use a Relay mask instead of your email address.

This keeps your real email address hidden, protecting it from spam, potential data breaches, and targeted advertising.

Key Features of Firefox Relay

  • Simple Alias Creation: Effortlessly generate random email aliases with a single click. Customize the alias name for better organization.
  • Seamless Email Forwarding: All emails sent to your Relay aliases are securely forwarded to your main inbox, ensuring you don’t miss important messages.
  • Enhanced Privacy: Websites and services you interact with only see your anonymized alias, not your email address.
  • Reduced Spam: By using separate aliases for different purposes, you can create a filter and reduce the amount of spam reaching your main inbox.
  • Improved Security: If a website or service experiences a data breach, only the associated alias is compromised, not your primary email address.
  • Blocking Features: For aliases receiving excessive spam, you can easily block them with a single click, preventing further unwanted emails.
  • Optional Paid Features (Relay Premium):
    • Reply Directly from Aliases: Respond directly to emails sent to your aliases without revealing your main email address.
    • Customizable Domain Names: Create aliases with a custom domain name for a more professional appearance.
    • Increased Alias Storage: For users who require more than the free tier’s limit of five aliases, premium plans offer additional storage.

READ ALSO: Ultimate Guide To Hide Files On Windows Computer (Like James Bond)

Benefits of Using Firefox Relay

Benefits of Using Firefox Relay

  • Protect Your Privacy: By shielding your email address, you limit the amount of personal information exposed online. This reduces the risk of targeted advertising and helps you maintain greater control over your online identity.
  • Combat Spam: Relay aliases act as a buffer, filtering out unwanted emails before they reach your main inbox. This keeps your inbox clean and organized, allowing you to focus on important messages.
  • Enhance Security: If a website or service you use experiences a data breach, only the compromised alias is affected. This minimizes the potential damage and protects your primary email address from unauthorized access.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing your email is shielded from unnecessary exposure provides peace of mind. You can sign up for services with confidence without worrying about constant spam or compromised data.

READ ALSO: 15 Confidential Command Prompt Tricks You Should Know

Getting Started with Firefox Relay

Using Firefox Relay is a breeze. Here’s a quick guide:

  1. Install the Firefox Relay Add-on: Available for free on the Mozilla Add-ons website for Firefox browsers.
  2. Create a Firefox Account (Optional): While not mandatory, creating a free Firefox account allows you to manage your aliases across multiple devices.
  3. Generate an Alias: Click the Relay icon in your Firefox toolbar and choose “Create Alias.” Customize the alias name for easy identification.
  4. Use Your Alias: When signing up for online services, replace your email address with the generated alias.
  5. Manage Your Aliases: View, edit, or delete your aliases directly from the Relay dashboard. You can also block unwanted emails associated with specific aliases.

READ ALSO: Firefox Lockwise: What is it? Benefits, Features & How to Download?

Is Firefox Relay Right for You?

If you’re concerned about online privacy and tired of overflowing inboxes, then Firefox Relay is a valuable tool. It’s particularly beneficial for:

  • Individuals who frequently sign up for online services.
  • Those concerned about targeted advertising and data collection.
  • People who want to improve email organization and reduce spam.
  • Anyone who prioritizes online security and data protection.

Firefox Relay vs. Other Email Alias Services

Several competitors offer email alias services. Here’s how Firefox Relay compares:

  • Privacy Focus: Backed by the privacy-conscious Mozilla Foundation, Relay prioritizes user privacy and keeps your data secure.
  • Free Tier: Unlike some competitors, Relay offers a generous free plan with five aliases and basic functionality.
  • Integration with Firefox: For Firefox users, the seamless integration with the browser makes Relay a convenient and familiar choice.
  • Open Source Transparency: Firefox Relay’s underlying code is open-source, allowing for independent security audits and fostering trust.

READ ALSO: 8 Best Firefox Lockwise Alternatives [Tested, Reviewed & Ranked]

Potential Drawbacks and Considerations

  • Limited Reply Functionality (Free Tier): The free tier restricts direct replies from aliases. Upgrading to Relay Premium allows for this feature.
  • Dependence on Primary Email Provider: Relay relies on your main email address for forwarding. Ensure your primary email provider offers good spam filtering and security measures.
  • Not a Complete Email Solution: While Relay protects your email address, it doesn’t encrypt email content itself. Consider using an email encryption service for added security when sending sensitive information.

Tips for Using Firefox Relay Effectively

Tips for Using Firefox Relay Effectively

  • Create Specific Aliases: Use different aliases for various purposes (e.g., shopping, social media, newsletters). This helps categorize incoming emails and identify potential spam sources.
  • Develop a Labeling System: Implement a system for naming your aliases to easily remember their purpose (e.g., “[email address removed]”).
  • Clean Up Regularly: Periodically review your aliases and delete unused ones to maintain a clean and organized list.
  • Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Enhance the security of your Firefox Relay account by enabling two-factor authentication.

READ ALSO: Spam Call: Is the Area Code 929 Spam?

The Future of Firefox Relay

Mozilla is constantly working to improve Firefox Relay. Here are some potential future developments:

  • Advanced Spam Filtering: Integration with more robust spam filtering tools to further reduce unwanted emails reaching your inbox.
  • Enhanced Alias Management: Features for organizing and managing a larger number of aliases effectively.
  • Mobile App Development: A dedicated mobile app for managing Relay aliases on the go.

Conclusion

Firefox Relay is a powerful tool for regaining control of your email privacy. It empowers you to navigate the online world with confidence, shielding your email address and minimizing exposure to spam and potential security risks.

Whether you’re a privacy-conscious individual or simply overwhelmed by a cluttered inbox, Firefox Relay offers a valuable solution.

With its user-friendly interface, free tier options, and commitment to privacy, it’s a compelling choice for anyone seeking a more secure and organized email experience.


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How To Remove Apps On Android And iOS Devices

In this post, we will show you how to remove an app or apps on Android and iOS devices without issues.

In the age of overflowing app stores like Google Play and the App Store, it’s easy to get carried away downloading new apps. Before you know it, your once-spacious storage space dwindles, leaving you scrambling to free up precious bytes.

Fortunately, removing unwanted apps on both Android and iOS devices is a breeze. This guide explores various methods for app removal on these popular mobile operating systems, empowering you to reclaim control of your device’s storage.

How To Remove Apps On Android Devices

Android offers multiple ways to uninstall apps, catering to different user preferences:

Method 1: The Long-Press Method

This is perhaps the most intuitive approach. Simply locate the app you wish to remove on your home screen or app drawer. Press and hold the app icon for a few seconds until a menu appears.

You might see an “Uninstall” or “App info” option depending on your device and Android version. Selecting “Uninstall” will initiate the removal process, prompting you to confirm your choice.

Method 2: The Drag-and-Drop Technique

Some Android devices offer a drag-and-drop functionality for uninstalling apps.

Once you’ve long-pressed the app icon, instead of selecting an option from the menu, you might be able to drag the icon to a designated “Uninstall” icon displayed at the top or bottom of your screen.

Releasing the icon over this “Uninstall” area prompts confirmation before removing the app.

Method 3: Navigating Through Settings

App removal can be achieved through the device’s settings menu for users who prefer a more organized approach. Locate the “Settings” app and navigate to the “Apps” or “Applications” section (depending on your device’s specific wording).

This section provides a list of all installed applications. Tap on the desired app, followed by the “Uninstall” button to initiate the removal process.

A Word on Disabling Apps

It’s important to distinguish between uninstalling and disabling an app. While uninstalling completely removes the app and its data from your device, disabling an app merely prevents it from running in the background.

Disabled apps still occupy storage space, but they won’t drain your battery or send notifications. The “Disable” option is often available within the app’s settings menu accessed through the “App info” section.

This functionality is useful for apps you might use occasionally but don’t require constant background operation.

READ ALSO: What to Do If Your Password Is Found on the Dark Web?

How To Remove Apps On iOS Devices

Apple’s iOS offers three primary methods for removing apps:

Method 1: The Home Screen Shuffle

This is arguably the quickest way to remove apps on iOS. Simply tap and hold any app icon on your home screen.

All app icons will begin to jiggle, and a small “X” will appear in the top left corner of each icon. Tap the “X” on the app you wish to remove, and a confirmation pop-up will appear. Select “Delete” to confirm and complete the app removal process.

Method 2: Settings Safari

For a more detailed view of your installed apps and their storage usage, you can navigate through the Settings app. Tap on “General” and then “iPhone Storage.”

This section displays a list of all apps and the amount of storage space they occupy. Tap on the app you wish to remove. You’ll be presented with two options: “Offload App” and “Delete App.” Offloading an app removes the app itself but retains its data.

This can be useful for apps you use infrequently but want to retain associated data for when you reinstall them later. Selecting “Delete App” completely removes both the app and its data from your device.

Method 3: The Outdated Option: iTunes (for older versions)

While not applicable to the latest iOS versions and iTunes iterations, it’s worth mentioning that older versions of iTunes (prior to 12.6.3) allowed app removal through a computer connection.

By connecting your iOS device to your computer using a USB cable and launching iTunes, you could navigate to the “Apps” section within iTunes and remove apps directly from your device. However, with the evolution of iOS and iTunes, this functionality is no longer readily available on most devices.

READ ALSO: Risks Of Cryptojacking In Mobile Devices

Beyond App Removal: Storage Management Tips

Uninstalling unused apps is a fantastic first step in reclaiming storage space. Here are some additional tips to optimize your device’s storage:

  • Review Photos and Videos: Large media files like photos and videos can consume significant storage. Consider deleting unwanted media or transferring them to a cloud storage service.
  • Clear App Cache: Many apps accumulate temporary data in their cache. Clearing app cache can free up some storage space without removing the app itself. The specific method for clearing cache varies depending on the app and your device’s operating system, but it’s usually accessible within the app’s settings menu or the device’s storage management options.
  • Utilize Cloud Storage: Cloud storage services like Google Drive or iCloud offer a convenient way to store photos, videos, and documents without cluttering your device’s internal storage. Free plans typically provide a few gigabytes of storage, while paid plans offer significantly larger capacities.
  • Invest in a MicroSD Card (Android Only): If you’re using an Android device that supports expandable storage, consider investing in a microSD card. This allows you to expand your device’s storage capacity and transfer large files like movies or music to the microSD card, freeing up precious internal space for essential apps and data.

READ ALSO: Cloud Storage Guide For Businesses and Individuals

Bottom Line

By following these strategies, you can effectively manage your device’s storage and keep your apps organized. Remember, a clutter-free device not only frees up valuable space but can also improve performance and battery life.

So, take control of your app collection, declutter regularly, and enjoy a smooth and efficient mobile experience!

Note: This was initially published in December 2019, but has been updated for freshness and accuracy.


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Essential Google Chrome Add-ons for Security

Google Chrome is believed to have the most extensive user base worldwide due to its unique features, such as easy syncing, swift performance, and straightforward interface.

Nevertheless, it also utilizes some add-ons for a better experience. Note that some of these ads or extensions are not secure. Using an insecure add-on leaves your browser at the mercy of a third party. Therefore, you must use Google Chrome add-ons for maximum security.

This post will look into some secure add-ons essential for Google Chrome browser security. Below are a few

Essential Google Chrome Add-ons for Security

In today’s digital landscape, online security is paramount. While Google Chrome implements various security measures, browser extensions, also known as add-ons, can provide an extra layer of protection for your browsing experience.

Read Also: Online Security Tips for Kids

Here, we explore some essential Google Chrome add-ons that can significantly enhance online security.

Content Blocking and Privacy Protectors

  • uBlock Origin: This open-source ad blocker goes beyond essential ad removal. It blocks ads, trackers, malware, and unwanted pop-ups, offering a comprehensive defence against intrusive content. uBlock Origin is highly customizable, allowing you to whitelist specific websites or elements if desired.

  • Privacy Badger: This add-on by the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) focuses on blocking third-party trackers that monitor your browsing activity across different websites. Privacy Badger employs a machine learning algorithm to identify and block trackers as you browse, helping you maintain online privacy.

  • Ghostery: This popular add-on identifies trackers, web bugs, and other privacy-invasive elements embedded in websites. Ghostery provides detailed information about the trackers it detects, allowing you to make informed decisions about blocking them or allowing them on a case-by-case basis.

  • HTTPS Everywhere: This Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) project automatically upgrades websites to HTTPS whenever possible. HTTPS encrypts communication between your browser and the website, protecting your data from interception.

READ ALSO: VPN Extension For Google Chrome – Benefits And Useful Tricks

Password Management and Security Enhancement

  • Bitwarden: This highly-rated password manager offers a secure way to store and manage your login credentials. Bitwarden uses strong encryption to protect your passwords, allowing you to access them from any device with your master password. It also offers features like auto-fill and secure password sharing.

  • LastPass: Another popular password manager, LastPass, simplifies password management by securely storing your logins and automatically filling them in on websites. LastPass offers features like secure notes, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and a password generator to create strong, unique passwords for all your online accounts.

  • Dashlane: This robust password manager goes beyond password storage. Dashlane offers features like secure password sharing, data breach monitoring, and a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your internet traffic for an extra layer of security, especially when using public Wi-Fi.

  • Avast Online Security: This comprehensive add-on by Avast provides real-time protection while browsing. It blocks malicious websites, phishing attempts, and suspicious downloads. Avast Online Security also protects against browser hijacking and data leaks, offering a multi-layered defence against online threats.

Read Also: Online Security Tips for Seniors

Additional Security and Privacy Tools

  • Privacy Redirect: This add-on automatically redirects you to any website’s privacy policy page. This can help you understand how websites collect and use your data.

  • DuckDuckGo Privacy Essentials: This add-on by the privacy-focused search engine DuckDuckGo blocks tracking scripts and enforces HTTPS connections on websites. It also provides a bang search feature, allowing you to search directly on specific websites from the address bar.

  • Click&Clean: This add-on offers a range of cleaning and privacy tools. Click&Clean helps you clear your browsing history, cookies, cache, and download history with a single click. It also includes features for managing browsing extensions and protecting your privacy.

  • Web Scraper: While not strictly a security add-on, Web Scraper can be a valuable tool for developers and researchers. This add-on allows you to extract specific data from websites, but it’s essential to use it ethically and responsibly, respecting website terms of service.

Remember, installing too many add-ons can slow down your browser performance. Carefully evaluate your needs and choose add-ons that address specific security concerns without compromising browsing speed. Regularly update your add-ons to ensure they have the latest security patches.

Bottom Line

By implementing these essential Google Chrome add-ons and practising safe browsing habits, you can significantly enhance your online security and protect yourself from a wide range of threats.

Stay vigilant, update your software, and enjoy a more secure browsing experience.


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Google Rolls Out New Restrictions for Political Advertisers [OLD NEWS]

Google recently announced new restrictions for political advertisers, a significant development in online advertising. These changes aim to address concerns about misinformation and manipulation during political campaigns.

The rise of digital advertising has transformed how political campaigns reach voters. While this offers a wider reach, it raises concerns about misinformation, manipulation, and foreign interference.

Recognizing these challenges, Google has implemented new restrictions to regulate political advertising on its platform.

Political Ads Restrictions: Stricter Verification and Transparency

Political Ads Restrictions Stricter Verification and Transparency

  • Enhanced Verification: Political advertisers must undergo additional checks, including verifying their identity, location, and funding sources, to increase transparency and accountability.
  • Targeting Limitations: Granular targeting based on sensitive demographics like gender, age, or ZIP code is no longer allowed for political ads, preventing potential manipulation and misinformation.

READ ALSO: Understanding Ad Blocker: The Ultimate Guide to Blocking Ads Online

Empowering Users with Transparency

  • Political Ads Transparency Report: This new feature lets users see details about political ads on Google platforms, including who funded them, how much was spent, and even the ad content, promoting informed decision-making.

Impact on Advertisers and the Public

  • For Advertisers: Adaptation is necessary to comply with stricter verification and targeting rules.
  • For the Public: Increased transparency and trust in the information they consume during elections, thanks to easier access to ad details and the ability to evaluate their credibility.

READ ALSO: The Intersection of AI and Privacy: Safeguarding Personal Information in the Age of Intelligent Systems

Conclusion

Google’s new restrictions aim to address misinformation and manipulation in political advertising by enhancing transparency and accountability. They benefit advertisers and the public by promoting a more informed and trustworthy online political advertising landscape.

READ ALSO: Is Google Translate Secure? [We Have The Answer]

In conclusion, Google’s new restrictions for political advertisers aim to address concerns about misinformation and manipulation during political campaigns.

These changes increase transparency and accountability by requiring verification from advertisers and implementing stricter rules regarding targeting options.

With the introduction of the Political Ads Transparency Report, users can now easily access information about political ads running on Google’s platforms.

Political Ads Transparency Report: Frequently Asked Questions

Political Ads Transparency Report

What is the Political Ads Transparency Report, and how does it work?

The Political Ads Transparency Report allows users to easily access information about political ads running on Google platforms like Search, YouTube, and Display Network. This includes details like:

  • Who funded the ad: See the name and location of the advertiser.
  • How much was spent: Understand the budget allocated to the ad campaign.
  • Where the ad ran: Know the platforms and channels where the ad was displayed.
  • The ad content: View the actual text, image, or video used in the ad.

READ ALSO: Beyond Breaches: Turning Cybersecurity Transparency Into a Business Advantage

What are the benefits of using the Political Ads Transparency Report?

This report empowers users in several ways:

  • Increased transparency: Gain insights into who’s influencing elections and what messages they’re promoting.
  • Fact-checking potential misinformation: Cross-check information presented in ads against reliable sources.
  • Holding advertisers accountable: Understand who’s behind specific ads and raise concerns if necessary.
  • Informed voting decisions: Make more informed choices based on transparency and knowledge of campaign messaging.

READ ALSO: How To Report Online Scams In The UK [MUST READ]

How can I use the Political Ads Transparency Report?

The report is user-friendly and accessible through Google’s website. You can:

  • Search by advertiser name: Find ads funded by specific individuals or organizations.
  • Filter by keywords: Look for ads related to particular topics or issues.
  • Browse by location: See ads targeted at specific regions or demographics.
  • Download data: Export information for further analysis or sharing.

Remember: The Political Ads Transparency Report is a valuable resource for understanding the landscape of online political advertising. You can contribute to a more informed and transparent political discourse by utilizing it effectively.


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Best Practices And Recognized Approaches Of Software Development

This post will show you the best practices and recognized approaches of software development.

Despite the development of software for years, there is an art to it that not everyone can grasp. Developers are well rewarded for their efforts; there is a good reason for this: coding is complicated, and not everyone’s mind has that coding wiring.

Recognized approaches and best practices have been developed in the area of software. Let’s explore these in more depth.

DevOps on Azure

Microsoft Azure has a dedicated DevOps server that manages projects and assigns tasks. It features version control, reporting, project management, automated builds, testing, and release management capabilities.

As such, DevOps on Azure is where most software development is managed and controlled.

READ ALSO: 5 Industries That DevOps Is Transforming

Agile

Agile software devt

Agile is a software development methodology that came into being to try and combat the limitations of top-down structured design methodologies such as Waterfall. As such, when done right, Agile can speed up the development process and accommodate change when it is needed.

Agile puts a strong emphasis on customer inclusion. This is achieved through producing code that can be demonstrated and tested. Clients and other departments provide their input so that the changes needed are identified sooner rather than later.

Agile is quite forward-thinking as it emphasizes developers rather than tools and inflexible planning, and forces out code rather than documentation. Development teams are encouraged to work in sprints to achieve deliverables faster, which allows for the inclusion mentioned earlier.

Agile is a highly flexible approach, and other methodologies have been built on top of it. Given the agility of Agile, is there room for structured top-down approaches? The answer is yes.

Waterfall

Although for some, Waterfall is outdated, it is still utilized where software teams have an in-depth understanding of project requirements.

The waterfall methodology was developed in the 1970s and has been the number one methodology for decades. It requires every development cycle to be planned to the nth degree with considerable input from both the client and the development team at the beginning of the project.

From this point, documentation is produced, and normally, the project is built in stages. Should a mistake need to be corrected or something added midway through, it means typically starting from the beginning.

The key strength of the waterfall is that progress can easily be tracked and measured as it develops in stages. Typically, one stage has to be created before the next one begins and so assigning tasks is easier for managers as everything is planned from the start.

READ ALSO: How to Choose the Best Software Development Company in the USA

Feature Driven Development (FDD)

Feature Driven Development

Considered to be the precursor to Agile and Lean mythologies, FDD focuses on developing software frequently and is highly client-focused.

The methodology gets its name as ‘Features’, which are client-valued work that should be produced every two weeks.

To achieve this goal, each feature is broken down into 5 steps. They are:

  • Develop an overall model for the project.
  • Build a feature list.
  • Plan each feature.
  • Design by feature.
  • Built by feature.

Reporting is encouraged at the end of each step, which is an excellent way to spot errors and track progress.

Should a feature take longer than two weeks to fully develop, FDD forces the feature to be broken down into more steps to fit the two-week rule. This inflexibility can make FDD a little hard to use for some projects.

READ ALSO: File Sanitization: A Critical Component in Modern Cybersecurity Defense

Best Practices and Recognized Approaches of Software Development: FAQs

The world of software development is brimming with various methodologies and approaches. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you navigate this landscape:

Which approach is best for software development?

There’s no single “best” approach for software development. The optimal approach depends on several factors, including:

  • Project size and complexity: Large-scale enterprise applications might benefit from a structured approach like Waterfall, while smaller projects might thrive with the flexibility of Agile.
  • Project requirements: Clearly defined requirements might favour a Waterfall approach, while evolving requirements might be better suited for Agile methodologies.
  • Team structure and culture: Agile methodologies often work well for collaborative and adaptable teams, while Waterfall might be a good fit for teams accustomed to a more structured environment.

Here’s a brief overview of some recognized approaches:

  • Waterfall: A traditional, sequential approach where development progresses through well-defined stages (requirements gathering, design, development, testing, deployment). Offers a clear roadmap but can be inflexible for changing requirements.
  • Agile: An iterative and incremental approach that delivers working software in short cycles (sprints). Adaptable to changing requirements, but can lead to scope creep if not managed well.
  • DevOps: A collaborative approach that emphasizes communication, integration, and automation between development, operations, and security teams. Aimed at faster deployments and improved software quality.

READ ALSO: 5 Cybersecurity Tips To Protect Your Digital Assets As A Business

What does best practice mean in software development?

Best software development practices encompass principles, methods, and tools that have proven effective in creating high-quality, maintainable software. These practices can include:

  • Version control: Tracking changes made to code throughout the development process.
  • Code reviews: Having other developers review code to identify errors and improve quality.
  • Unit testing: Writing tests for individual units of code to ensure they function correctly.
  • Continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD): Automating the building, testing, and deployment of software.
  • Documentation: Creating clear and concise documentation for the software, its code, and its functionality.

What are the 3 basic approaches applied to software development methodology frameworks?

While there are many specific methodologies, here are three fundamental approaches:

  1. Structured Development: This approach emphasizes a pre-defined series of stages, clear documentation, and a focus on planning and control. A waterfall is a classic example of structured development.
  2. Iterative and Incremental Development: This approach breaks down the development process into smaller, iterative cycles. Each iteration delivers a working piece of the software, allowing for feedback and adaptation. Agile methodologies like Scrum and Kanban fall under this category.
  3. Agile Development: A specific type of iterative and incremental development that emphasizes flexibility, collaboration, and rapid feedback cycles. Agile methodologies are known for their adaptability to changing requirements.

Which of the following are common software development approaches?

Several methodologies fall under the umbrella of software development approaches. Here are a few widely used examples:

  • Waterfall: A structured, sequential methodology mentioned earlier.
  • Agile: A broad term encompassing various iterative and incremental methodologies like Scrum, Kanban, and Extreme Programming (XP).
  • Scrum: A popular Agile methodology known for using short sprints (typically 2-4 weeks) and scrum teams with specific roles.
  • Kanban: An Agile methodology that utilizes a visual board to represent the development workflow. Tasks are visualized as cards that move across the board as they progress.
  • DevOps: While not strictly a development methodology, DevOps emphasizes collaboration and automation between development, operations, and security teams.

READ ALSO: 12 Companies For Outsourcing Web Development [MUST READ]

What are the development approaches?

Development approaches encompass the overall philosophies and strategies used in software development. These approaches can guide the selection of specific methodologies and tools. Here are some examples:

  • Top-Down Development: This approach breaks down the software into smaller, more manageable components, starting with the overall system design and then refining the details.
  • Bottom-Up Development: This approach starts with developing individual components or modules and then integrates them into a larger system.

What are the two main approaches of software design?

There are many design approaches within software development, but two fundamental perspectives are:

  • Object-Oriented Design (OOD): This approach organizes software around objects (data and the operations performed on that data) that encapsulate functionality and data.
  • Functional Programming: This approach breaks down problems into smaller, independent functions that avoid data modification and side effects.

READ ALSO: 6 Ways To Optimize Your DevOps Team Productivity

A Final Word On The Approaches Of Software Development

Software development is complicated, but with the right approach, it can be developed faster and leaner, especially if DevOps on Azure is in use.


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4 Essential Tips to Improve Home Security

Today, we will show you essential tips to improve your home security.

Our homes are sanctuaries, places of comfort and refuge for ourselves and our loved ones. Ensuring their security is paramount, a responsibility we all share.

Fortunately, there’s a multitude of strategies we can employ, from simple adjustments to our daily routines to more substantial investments in security systems.

This guide delves into essential tips to bolster your home security, empowering you to create a safe and secure environment.

READ ALSO: Your Complete Home Security Guide: Peace of Mind Awaits

Building a Culture of Security: Habits Make the Difference

The cornerstone of home security lies in establishing good habits. These seemingly minor actions, consistently practised by everyone in the household, can significantly deter break-ins.

  • Lock it Up: This may seem obvious, but complacency can lead to vulnerabilities. Get into the habit of routinely locking all doors and windows, even when you’re at home for short periods. Leaving doors unlocked, especially during the day, creates an open invitation for opportunistic thieves.

  • Key Management: Keys are the gateway to your home. Avoid leaving them in plain sight, under doormats, or in planters – these are common hiding places for burglars. Invest in secure key holders or designate a specific, hidden location inside your home.

  • The Strength of Routine: Establish a routine of checking doors and windows before turning in for the night and upon leaving the house. Over time, this ingrained habit becomes second nature, preventing accidental oversights.

  • Be Wary of Strangers: Exercise caution when interacting with strangers at your door. Don’t open the door unless you’re expecting someone, and utilize peepholes or door cameras for identification.

  • Secure Valuables: Keep valuables like jewellery, cash, and electronics out of sight. Invest in a secure safe for important documents and irreplaceable items.

  • Maintain Your Locks: Over time, locks can wear down and become less secure. Regularly inspect your locks for signs of damage or malfunction, and consider replacing them if necessary.

Arlo Home Security
Arlo Home Security
Cutting-edge home protection that keeps out intruders 24/7.
Cutting-edge home protection that keeps out intruders 24/7. Show Less

Empowering Your Home with Security Solutions

essential tips to improve your home security

Technology offers a robust arsenal of security solutions to enhance your home’s defences. Explore the options that best suit your needs and budget:

  • Alarm Systems: Modern alarm systems offer comprehensive security, with features like motion detectors, door and window sensors, and loud sirens to deter intruders. Consider monitored systems that connect to a central station, dispatching emergency services in case of an alarm.

  • Security Cameras (CCTV): Installing CCTV cameras around your property creates a powerful deterrent. The presence of cameras discourages potential burglars and provides valuable video evidence in the event of a break-in. Choose from wired or wireless systems, with options for remote viewing and night vision capabilities.

  • Door and Window Sensors: These unobtrusive sensors detect unauthorized entry by sensing movement or vibrations at doors and windows. When triggered, they can activate alarms, send notifications to your smartphone, or both.

  • Smart Home Integration: Modern smart home systems allow you to integrate various security features, including lights, locks, cameras, and thermostats, into a single, unified platform. This enables remote control and automation, offering additional peace of mind.

  • Security Lighting: Well-lit properties are less inviting to burglars. Install motion-sensor lights near entrances, walkways, and driveways. These activate when movement is detected, illuminating potential intruders and alerting you to activity around your home.

READ ALSO: Security Tips To Protect Your Home From Burglary [Infographics]

Beyond Technology: Environmental Security Measures

Security extends beyond technology and gadgets. Here are some environmental considerations to bolster your home’s defences:

  • Fencing and Gating: Installing fences and gates around your property creates a physical barrier, deterring unauthorized access. Consider the height and material of your fencing based on your security needs and aesthetic preferences.

  • Landscaping with Security in Mind: Trim or remove overgrown bushes and trees that could provide hiding places for burglars—plant thorny shrubs or prickly hedges near windows and entry points to create a natural deterrent.

  • Maintaining a Lived-In Appearance: An empty-looking home is a target. If you’re going on vacation, consider using timers for lights and radios to create the illusion of occupancy. Ask a trusted neighbour to collect mail and keep an eye on your property.

Arlo Home Security
Arlo Home Security
Cutting-edge home protection that keeps out intruders 24/7.
Cutting-edge home protection that keeps out intruders 24/7. Show Less

Cultivating a Secure Community

Security is a collective effort. Here’s how to leverage the power of community:

  • Get to Know Your Neighbors: Build relationships with your neighbours. Look out for each other’s homes and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

  • Neighbourhood Watch Programs: Participating in neighbourhood watch programs fosters a sense of community and vigilance. These programs often involve coordinated efforts to patrol neighbourhoods and report suspicious activity.

  • Block Watch Initiatives: Block watch programs focus on smaller geographical areas like individual streets or blocks. Neighbours work together to protect their homes.

READ ALSO: How Accepting Better Organisational Skills Can Unlock Your Career Success

Cybersecurity: Protecting Your Digital Doors

The digital age introduces a new security frontier – your home network. Here’s how to safeguard your online vulnerability:

  • Secure Your Wi-Fi Network: Use a strong and unique password for your Wi-Fi network. Avoid using easily guessable information like birthdays or addresses. Consider enabling WPA2 encryption for added security.

  • Beware of Phishing Attacks: Phishing emails and websites attempt to trick you into revealing personal information or downloading malware. Be cautious of unsolicited emails, don’t click on suspicious links, and verify website legitimacy before entering any sensitive data.

  • Strong Passwords & Multi-Factor Authentication: Implement strong passwords for all your online accounts, and wherever possible, enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for an extra layer of security. MFA requires a second verification step beyond your password, like a code from your phone, making it much harder for unauthorized access.

  • Keep Software Updated: Outdated Software can contain security vulnerabilities. Enable automatic updates for your operating system, web browser, and other applications to ensure you have the latest security patches.

  • Antivirus and Anti-Malware Protection: Invest in a reputable antivirus and anti-malware program to protect your devices from malicious Software that can steal your data or damage your system.

Arlo Home Security
Arlo Home Security
Cutting-edge home protection that keeps out intruders 24/7.
Cutting-edge home protection that keeps out intruders 24/7. Show Less

Insurance: A Safety Net

Even with the most robust security measures, unforeseen events can occur. Homeowner’s or renter’s insurance provides financial protection in case of theft, vandalism, or other covered perils. Review your insurance policy to ensure you have adequate coverage for your home and belongings.

Conclusion: Building a Culture of Security

Home security is an ongoing process, not a one-time fix.

By adopting a layered approach that combines good security habits, technological solutions, environmental considerations, and a strong cyber defence strategy, you can create a safe and secure haven for yourself and your loved ones.

Remember, security is a journey, not a destination. Stay informed about new security threats and update your strategies accordingly. With vigilance and a proactive approach, you can transform your home into a fortress of peace of mind.

Note: This was initially published in May 2020 but has been updated for freshness and accuracy.


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How APIs Help To Improve Your Customers’ Experience [5 Tips]

This post will show you how APIs help to improve your customers’ experience, including 5 things business owners should know.

APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) are becoming increasingly popular in the business world today. They’re simply everywhere, functional without you even knowing they’re in use. Most apps we use today use APIs for a faster and less complicated experience. 

APIs make platforms like Uber, Maps, Weather apps, PayPal, and even Facebook, work efficiently. Anytime you share content with friends or family using any social media, you’ve done so with the help of APIs. 

APIs in business are invaluable. You can use them for various reasons, including improving your product for your customers and opening more avenues for revenue inflow. 

READ ALSO: 6 Ways Ransomware Attacks Harm Businesses And Consumers

Find out how you can use APIs to make your consumers happier. 

Your Customers’ Experience

In today’s world, consumers are looking for a faster and more streamlined way of doing things. The faster you can provide your service the better. With so many competitors on the market, a business that is lagging in providing quality services will get left behind. 

There are five key things every consumer wants today. This is especially important to note as you work towards using APIs to improve their experience. 

  1. Consumers want functionality. They want your product or service to provide the functions it claims it would.
  2. Consumers want speed. They’re busy, and a reduction in the amount of time they take to do business with you is at the top of their needs.
  3. Consumers want convenience. They want the ease of finding out about your products and services from their phones and personal computers and want to be able to pay for services from the comfort of their homes.
  4. Consumers want consistency and reliability. They want to know that you can provide great service for them every time they choose to do business with you.
  5. Consumers want an awesome mobile experience. They want to be able to access your services or products from their mobile phones as easily as they would from a computer. 

How APIs Help Improve Your Consumers

How APIs Help Improve Your Consumers

If you’re considering including APIs into your website or product, here are five ways they enhance your consumer’s experience.

1. They Provide Your Customers with Useful Data

APIs help to deliver relevant data to your consumers right on your app or website. You can provide data from a common source on your platform using APIs, so your customers no longer have to leave your site to source for this data. 

For example, if you own a travel-related platform, a weather API, like this one here, can provide useful information about the weather on your platform. A calendar API enables customers to have access to real-time availability which makes bookings easier.

Travelers, companies booking trips for employees, families going on vacation, logistics companies, and many more site users will find this information useful in making quick decisions about their travel plans. 

It saves the time they spend leaving your site to search for this information and improves your site’s functionality in general.

READ ALSO: Amazon Scraper API: Best Tools To Extract Data From Amazon At Scale

2. They Help to Improve Website Load Time

They Help to Improve Website Load Time

APIs take away the need to create new programs that make your website run more efficiently. Instead, you can integrate already existing programs through APIs, so your website is not laden with programs that make it load slowly. 

With APIs in place, your consumers enjoy a faster and more seamless experience on your website and still enjoy the best of functions because APIs help to streamline and automate internal processes. 

It transfers data instantly, eliminating the need for slowness in your website.

3. They Provide More Avenues for Payments

With APIs, you can offer your clients various platforms to pay for your services. There are now so many platforms for payments that most people prefer to use. 

You can easily integrate these platforms into your product or website with APIs, opening your business up to many more prospective customers. When customers know they have a variety of payment options to make their purchase seamless, they’ll be more eager to do business with you.

READ ALSO: Exploring Security Considerations for Fax APIs

4. They Provide More Personalized Experiences

With APIs, you can gather enough relevant data about your customers to give them a highly personalized experience. Use the data to learn about their online behaviors, shopping preferences, and use it to your advantage through your digital marketing strategies. 

APIs can also help you build more accurate data about your consumers. Through APIs, you can confirm the accuracy of your consumer’s data and create a detailed profile of them based on this.

5. They Can Help Secure Your Site

APIs Help Secure Your Site

You can make your product and website more secure with authentication APIs. Many consumers consider security when they interact with any website. If your website does not have the basic, necessary security protocols in place, it could be a red flag for them.

Integrating an authentication API into your site can help to prevent security breaches. It provides consumers with a 2-step authentication procedure that helps them feel safer when doing business with you.

READ ALSO: Best Web Scraper APIs: Unlocking the Web’s Data

How APIs Help Improve Your Consumers: Frequently Asked Questions

How can using APIs benefit consumers?

APIs offer a variety of benefits to consumers, making their digital experiences smoother, more efficient, and more convenient. Here are some examples:

  • Enhanced Functionality: APIs allow developers to integrate features from various services into new applications. This can provide consumers with a wider range of functionality within a single app.

    • Imagine a travel booking app that uses APIs to integrate flight options, hotel reservations, and car rentals, all in one place.
  • Improved User Experience: APIs can streamline processes and eliminate the need to switch between different apps or websites. This creates a more seamless and user-friendly experience.

    • For instance, a food delivery app might use an API to connect with a payment gateway, allowing users to pay for their orders directly within the app without needing to enter their card details on a separate website.
  • Personalized Services: APIs can be used to personalize experiences based on user data and preferences. This can lead to more relevant recommendations, targeted advertising, and a more tailored user experience.

    • Imagine a music streaming service that uses an API to recommend new songs based on your listening history and favorite artists.
  • Greater Choice and Innovation: APIs foster innovation by allowing developers to create new applications and services that leverage existing functionality from other platforms. This gives consumers more choices and access to cutting-edge features.

    • Many fitness trackers use APIs to connect with health apps, allowing users to track their workouts and manage their overall health data in one place.

READ ALSO: 6 Strategies To Make Your Model Serving API More Robust With Testing & Analysis

How can APIs help your business?

While this FAQ focuses on consumer benefits, it’s worth mentioning that APIs can also significantly benefit businesses. They can:

  • Improve operational efficiency
  • Facilitate data exchange with partners
  • Create new revenue streams through data monetization (with user consent)
  • Enhance customer engagement

What is the API used by customers?

Consumers typically don’t directly interact with APIs themselves. They interact with the applications and services that leverage APIs to provide functionality. For instance, you wouldn’t use a social media platform’s API directly, but you would benefit from the API integration that allows you to share content from that platform on another app.

READ ALSO: YouTube Scraper API: Guide for Developers, Marketers & Data Analysts

What does an API consumer do?

An API consumer is any application or service that utilizes an API to access data or functionality from another platform. This can include mobile apps, web applications, and even other software programs.

What are the main benefits of using REST APIs?

REST (Representational State Transfer) APIs are a popular type of API known for their:

  • Simplicity: REST APIs are relatively easy to understand and integrate compared to other types of APIs.
  • Flexibility: They can be used to perform various operations like retrieving data, creating new data, or updating existing data.
  • Scalability: REST APIs can handle a large volume of requests efficiently.

By understanding how APIs work, you can appreciate the invisible forces that power many of the digital tools and services that have become an essential part of our everyday lives.

READ ALSO: API Development: Everything You Need to Know

The Way Forward

There’s no doubt that APIs are here to stay and are an essential part of interaction with consumers today. 

To ensure a better experience with your customers, you may start to look into integrating functional and relevant APIs into your website or product. 


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How Will The Right CRM System Improve Your Business Today?

How will the right CRM System improve your business today? Read this post to find out how.

When you look around the roofing business and see which firms are genuinely nailing it in their regions, you’ll see a few things in common among the most successful contractors. Using a customer relationship management (CRM) system is one of such factors.

But what does this technology mean for roofing industry executives, and why should you consider implementing it?

4 Benefits Of A CRM For Contractors

A CRM system is a piece of software that keeps business data such as contacts, to-do lists, and invoices, as well as generating reports on the development of your firm.

A CRM handles many issues, but its primary objective is straightforward: What you’re already performing manually can be automated with a CRM system.

A CRM system might be helpful if you’re utilizing a combination of paper files and web tools to keep track of leads, get pipeline reports, build a list of action items for the day, or inquire if a team finished yesterday’s work list.

Continue reading to discover four ways a CRM may assist you in overcoming typical difficulties and expanding your business.

For Contractors, The Benefits Of A CRM

1. Reports And The Sales Funnel

The ability to line up future projects while working on a current project is one of the most crucial abilities to have in the roofing business.

Once you begin a project, you work diligently to complete it properly and efficiently. If you don’t have a regular stream of leads and new clients under contract, you can find it challenging to stay in business.

On the other hand, a reliable sales pipeline might help you make more educated financial decisions if you track your existing and upcoming jobs frequently. A CRM provides periodic sales data that assist you in seeing where you need to grow or develop your business.

2. Visibility Of The Goal

You should do so today if you don’t already have net profit, sales, and gross profit targets.

After you’ve agreed on these objectives, it’s time to figure out how you’ll achieve them. CRM software allows you to see what each team member should do every week or day to meet these objectives.

Those everyday duties create habits over time, allowing your company to achieve consistent outcomes.

READ ALSO: The Real Impact of Cloud-Based Integration Solutions on Businesses Today

3. Workflows That Are Customized

While everyone on your team should be working toward the company goals you’ve set, their daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, and yearly objectives will differ depending on their position.

Most CRM software allows users to customize workflows based on their position or project. This will enable you to set uniform goals and expectations for each team member, whether they work in sales, project management, or as part of your crew.

If you’ve ever observed five individuals execute the same job and then tried to train a newcomer, you know how inefficient and confusing inconsistent workflows can be.

Standardizing procedures and milestones is an excellent method to help your team work more efficiently with less supervision while keeping track of progress toward the objectives that will propel your company forward.

4. Accountability Measurement

Accountability Measurement

If you didn’t track each player’s batting average, you’d have difficulty analyzing a professional baseball team’s performance and determining how to coach them.

One of the advantages of using a CRM for contractors is that it allows you to track work performance and give support to your team members.

READ ALSO: 5 Smart Software Choices Every Business Should Make

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a CRM system help companies improve their business?

CRM systems offer a multitude of benefits that can directly impact your business’s success. Here are a few key ways:

  • Enhanced Customer Relationships: A CRM centralizes all your customer interactions (calls, emails, notes, etc.) in one place. This fosters a 360-degree view of your customers, allowing you to understand their needs, preferences, and purchase history better. This knowledge empowers you to personalize communication, offer targeted recommendations, and ultimately build stronger, more loyal customer relationships.
  • Improved Sales Pipeline Management: Manage your sales pipeline efficiently by tracking leads, opportunities, and deals within the CRM. You can visualize the sales process, prioritize leads, automate tasks, and forecast sales more accurately. This streamlines the entire sales cycle and increases the chances of closing deals.
  • Boosted Marketing ROI: CRM data can be invaluable for targeted marketing campaigns. You can segment your customer base based on demographics, purchase history, and interests. This allows for sending personalized marketing messages, maximizing campaign effectiveness, and return on investment (ROI).
  • Increased Productivity and Collaboration: A CRM streamlines communication and collaboration within your sales, marketing, and customer service teams. Everyone has access to the same customer information, eliminating data silos and ensuring everyone is on the same page. This leads to improved teamwork, faster response times, and ultimately, increased productivity.
  • Data-Driven Decision Making: A CRM system accumulates valuable customer data over time. This data can be analyzed to identify sales trends, customer preferences, and areas for improvement. You can use these insights to make informed decisions about your sales, marketing, and overall business strategy.

READ ALSO: Why Choosing the Right Roofing Company Determines the Long-Term Health of Your Home

How can a CRM system improve the overall efficiency of a business?

By automating tasks, streamlining workflows, and centralizing customer information, a CRM significantly improves business efficiency:

  • Automated Tasks: CRM systems can automate repetitive tasks such as sending follow-up emails, generating reports, and scheduling appointments. This frees up your team’s time to focus on more strategic activities.
  • Streamlined Workflows: CRMs establish clear workflows for handling leads, managing sales opportunities, and providing customer service. This ensures consistency, reduces manual work, and allows your team to work smarter, not harder.
  • Centralized Information: Having all customer data readily available in one place eliminates the need for searching through emails, spreadsheets, or sticky notes. This saves time and ensures everyone has access to the most up-to-date information.

Why is a CRM system important to your business and its future growth?

In today’s customer-centric world, building strong relationships is crucial for business growth. A CRM empowers you to:

  • Provide exceptional customer service: With a complete customer history at your fingertips, you can personalize interactions, resolve issues promptly, and exceed customer expectations, leading to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Retain existing customers: A CRM helps you identify at-risk customers and proactively address their concerns. Additionally, it allows you to personalize marketing campaigns to re-engage existing customers and encourage repeat business.
  • Attract new customers: By analyzing customer data and identifying successful marketing strategies, you can refine your approach and attract new customers who are more likely to convert into loyal patrons.

READ ALSO: Non-Digital Marketing Tools to Attract New Leads

What is the role of CRM in today’s business environment?

In today’s competitive landscape, businesses need to be data-driven, customer-centric, and efficient. A CRM system provides the tools and insights to achieve these goals. It acts as a central hub for managing all your customer interactions, streamlining internal processes, and ultimately driving business growth. By leveraging a CRM effectively, you can gain a competitive edge, build stronger customer relationships, and ensure the long-term success of your business.

A Final Word

Still undecided about whether or not a CRM for a roofing company is suitable for your company? Inquire of other roofing contractors that utilize a CRM system and what duties it has aided them in completing. You could discover it’s the tool you need to knock out your next project.


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Are PayPal’s Executives Looking Towards Re-Inventing the Product’s Identity?

Are PayPal’s executives reinventing the product’s identity? Read on!

PayPal has been around for a very long time, and it has served millions of people from around the world through its money-transfer services. 

Even though the primary functions of the service were of a very generic fund-transferring nature, PayPal managed to create an extensive customer base that regularly uses its website or application to send money from “Point A” to “Point B.” 

Family members have used it to send money to loved ones easily, merchants have used it as a payment method for their products and services, and people have even used it as an alternative online savings account. 

Now, it feels like it is time for PayPal to take the next step in its operation, as its directors are looking for ways to utilize the product’s functionality and its vast customer base. 

PayPal Executives ReInventing

PayPal is used as a payment method in several industries. It can be found both among the payment methods of online casinos offering traditional and supportive processing options in the United Kingdom as well as on websites gathering donations for people in need. It has helped start-up entrepreneurs gather money for products showing potential and allowed students to pay their tuition fees for online courses and seminars.

Nevertheless, it looks like the above examples are just a fraction of what the service can do for businesses and individuals.  

PayPal’s executives are heading toward a new direction as the company’s latest endeavor seems to be the immersion of PayPal into the cryptocurrency market. The service is already being used by PayPal account holders to purchase cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.

READ ALSO: How Do I Claim Free $200 Credit From DigitalOcean?

Interestingly, the news of buying, selling, and holding cryptocurrencies through PayPal has not been mainstreamed yet. Still, indeed, we will soon see one article after another talking about how people can use this money-transferring service to get their hands on one or more crypto coins. 

Are PayPal’s Executives Looking Towards Re-Inventing the Product’s Identity

Not Everything Is Great When It Comes to Having a PayPal Account

PayPal Holdings Inc. is trying to re-invent its product, turning it from a basic online fund-transfer service to a product that will compete with the world’s largest banks. This journey will come with a lot of pros and cons for PayPal’s customers.

Some will be happy to know that they can use PayPal to purchase cryptocurrencies, while others will get upset about the fact that PayPal is introducing a fee for inactive accounts. Those who have not used their account for more than a year, will need to pay £9 as a maintenance fee for their account. Luckily, all it takes to avoid paying the inactivity fee is a simple login to your PayPal account, and this process takes more or less ten seconds. 

Having to consider this new fee might be highly annoying for individuals who rarely use their PayPal accounts for basic transactions like buying a book or a video game. 

READ ALSO: StatesCard Review: Is This Card Worth Your Wallet?

Still, it will not feel like such a big problem for the average online consumer or online merchant. Inactivity and account maintenance fees are more or less a given when banking with traditional financial institutions from all over the world, and PayPal account holders will need to get used to the idea of having to pay it for PayPal if they decide to leave their account dormant.


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