In-Depth Lansweeper Review: Asset Management Insights

User interface of Lansweeper showcasing dashboard features

Intro

In a digital era where accurate asset management is crucial for business success, understanding the right tools is essential. Lansweeper emerges as a prominent asset management software tailored for companies of various sizes. This article presents a thorough examination of Lansweeper, demystifying its capabilities to aid business owners and IT managers in making informed decisions.

The landscape of IT asset management can be daunting, especially with the myriad of solutions available. However, focusing on a comprehensive software like Lansweeper can simplify processes while enhancing efficiency. Through this review, expect to explore key features, pricing models, integration capabilities, and real user feedback.

Moreover, this analysis aims to equip professionals with insights that reflect real-world applications, alongside a comparative look into its competition. By examining these facets, readers will gain a more informed understanding of how Lansweeper can optimize their asset management practices.

Prelims to Lansweeper

In an era where efficient asset management is critical for operational success, Lansweeper emerges as a vital tool for businesses. The importance of understanding Lansweeper lies in its ability to simplify the tracking and management of IT assets. This overview will shed light on its functionalities, positioning it as an essential software for organizations aiming to maximize their resources.

Overview of Lansweeper

Lansweeper is a robust asset management and network discovery solution designed for comprehensive visibility into IT infrastructure. It allows organizations to scan their network and detect all connected devices, providing a centralized view of assets. Whether it is servers, workstations, or network printers, Lansweeper effectively catalogues these components. This capability is crucial for IT departments that require accurate data for better decision-making and resource allocation.

Purpose and Functionality

The primary purpose of Lansweeper is to enhance IT asset management. By automating the discovery of devices on a network, it reduces the manual effort typically required for inventory management. This is particularly beneficial for small to medium-sized businesses that may lack the resources for extensive asset audits.

Lansweeper performs several key functions:

Automated Network Scanning: It scans networks automatically at regular intervals, ensuring that asset inventories are up-to-date.
Detailed Asset Information: Users can access detailed information regarding each asset, including hardware specifications and software installations.
Reporting Features: It provides customizable reporting options, enabling organizations to generate reports that meet their specific needs.
Integration Capabilities: Lansweeper can integrate with existing IT management tools, enhancing its utility and allowing for seamless operations within an organization's current ecosystem.

The adaptability and efficiency provided by Lansweeper considerably reduce the complexity associated with asset management. By employing this software, businesses can focus on core activities, knowing their assets are well managed.

Core Features of Lansweeper

Understanding the core features of Lansweeper is crucial for any business aiming to enhance their asset management capabilities. The strength of Lansweeper lies not only in its functionality but also in how these features collectively streamline IT operations. By effectively utilizing these features, organizations can save time, reduce costs, and ultimately improve their asset lifecycle management.

Network Discovery Capabilities

One of the standout features of Lansweeper is its network discovery capability. This allows the software to scan networks and map out all connected devices. The software uses various techniques, including SNMP, WMI, and active directory lookups, to gather information on devices. This capability is essential for IT administrators. It ensures that all assets are accounted for and facilitates the identification of unauthorized devices.

The importance of having a complete view of network assets cannot be overstated. This visibility aids in planning upgrades, removes unused devices, and helps in compliance with organizational policies. Furthermore, the automatic discovery feature minimizes the need for manual inventory checks, which can be time-consuming and prone to error.

Asset Management Tools

Lansweeper provides comprehensive asset management tools that are vital for businesses looking to optimize their IT infrastructure. This includes tracking hardware and software assets throughout their lifecycle. It helps organizations in maintenance scheduling and planning for upgrades. The software can store vendor details, warranty information, and installation dates, all centrally in one place.

This centralization allows for greater visibility and control over IT assets. Organizations can avoid overspending on renewals and ensure they are compliant with licensing terms. Additionally, having detailed asset information assists in strategic decision-making regarding future investments in technology.

Reporting and Analytics

Reporting and analytics are powerful features included in Lansweeper. The software offers a variety of pre-built reports and dashboards, which can be customized to meet specific organizational needs. Through analytics, businesses can gain insights into asset usage, find trends, and identify potential issues before they escalate.

These insights are useful, especially for budget planning and resource allocation. Additionally, scheduled reporting functionalities help keep stakeholders updated, ensuring that everyone is aligned on asset management objectives. The ability to visualize data simply transforms the way organizations manage their IT resources.

Integration with Other Systems

Lansweeper's integration capabilities extend its functionality by allowing it to work seamlessly with other software tools. It can connect with help desk applications like Jira and service management platforms such as ServiceNow. This integration enables a smooth flow of information across systems.

Such interoperability ensures streamlined asset management processes, making it easier to correlate asset data with support tickets or maintenance requests. It reduces duplication of work and ensures that all departments can access accurate, real-time data.

In summary, the core features of Lansweeper provide robust tools for network discovery, asset management, reporting, and integration. These features cater specifically to the needs of small and medium-sized businesses, equipping them with necessary capabilities to enhance their IT asset management operations.

User Experience: Interface and Usability

The importance of user experience in software cannot be overstated, especially when it comes to asset management solutions like Lansweeper. The way a user interacts with the software significantly influences their efficiency and productivity. In this section, we will examine key aspects, benefit, and considerations regarding the interface and usability of Lansweeper.

Dashboard Overview

The dashboard is the central point of interaction within Lansweeper. It provides an immediate overview of critical metrics and asset data. A clean and organized interface allows users to quickly grasp the status of their IT environment. The intuitive design features graphs, tables, and alerts that guide users to important information at a glance.

Having relevant widgets and summaries on the dashboard ensures that essential insights are readily available, which can enhance decision-making. Users appreciate a dashboard that minimizes clutter while maximizing the visibility of pertinent information. This design approach can lead to a more effective workflow, enabling IT managers to focus on strategic tasks rather than navigating through complex menus.

Ease of Navigation

Navigation is crucial in any software system. Lansweeper employs a logical structure that allows users to access various functionalities without frustration. The menu system is organized logically, helping users easily find what they need.

Users can swiftly move between different sections, such as asset management, network discovery, and reports. This ease of navigation is particularly beneficial for small to medium-sized businesses where time is often limited. The incorporation of search functionalities further enhances usability. It allows users to find specific assets or information quickly, reducing the time spent searching through multiple screens.

Visual representation of Lansweeper's asset management capabilities

Customization Options

Customizability is another vital aspect of Lansweeper's user interface. Businesses often have unique needs, and being able to tailor the dashboard and reports can make a significant difference in user satisfaction. Lansweeper offers a range of options for users to modify their dashboards, adjusting widgets and layouts according to their preferences.

Furthermore, users can create custom reports that align with their specific requirements. This ability to personalize the interface not only enhances user engagement but also optimizes their workflow. Overall, customization options contribute to making Lansweeper a flexible asset management solution suitable for diverse business environments.

"User-friendly software is not just about a pretty face; it is about consistency, efficiency, and simplicity in interaction."

Each of these factors—dashboard functionality, navigation ease, and customization—plays a critical role in the overall user experience of Lansweeper. These aspects ensure that users can effectively engage with the software, leading to improved asset management practices.

Pricing Structure

Understanding the pricing structure of Lansweeper is crucial for businesses contemplating the use of this asset management solution. This section examines how Lansweeper's pricing models cater to the diverse needs of various enterprises, particularly small to medium-sized businesses. Analyzing the pricing not only highlights its value but also emphasizes the potential return on investment.

Licensing Models

Lansweeper offers flexible licensing models designed to accommodate different organizational sizes and needs. The primary models include:

Perpetual Licensing: Under this model, businesses make a one-time payment for a license that does not expire. This approach provides long-term cost efficiency, as organizations are not obligated to pay recurring fees unless they opt for additional services or upgrades.
Subscription Licensing: This is a more common model in today's software landscape. Companies pay an annual fee which typically includes updates and support. This approach might be ideal for organizations that prefer predictable budgeting and the ability to scale licenses as necessary.

Advantages of these models include:

Flexibility to choose based on usage needs and financial resources.
Opportunities for budget management by selecting subscription plans.

Comparative Cost Analysis

An in-depth comparative cost analysis of Lansweeper reveals how its pricing stands against competitors. When considering the total cost of ownership, factors such as features offered, customer support, and potential for scalability come into play.

When matched against alternatives, Lansweeper tends to be competitive:

Feature Set: While some tools may appear cheaper, they lack crucial functionalities, which can lead to additional costs in other areas, like support or add-ons.
Support and Updates: The inclusion of customer support and regular updates is often a hidden cost in many solutions. Lansweeper's pricing structure factors in these aspects, offering a complete package that could be more cost-effective in the long run.

"Cost considerations in IT asset management solutions often extend beyond initial investment, making comprehensive analysis vital."

Implementation Considerations

When integrating Lansweeper into an organization, it is vital to understand the implementation considerations. Proper planning significantly impacts how effectively the software can be used for asset management and network discovery. Critical factors include system requirements and deployment strategies, which must align with the specific needs of a business.

Adequate preparation ensures that installations avoid common pitfalls. Businesses should assess their existing infrastructure to make informed decisions about scaling and integration. Addressing these considerations can streamline the process, allowing asset management to be implemented smoothly and effectively.

System Requirements

Lansweeper is designed to run on specific operating systems and has particular hardware needs that must be met. Generally, the requirement is to have a Windows-based server. The software prefers, at a minimum, Windows Server 2016 or later versions. However, utilizing more recent operating systems may enhance performance and compatibility.

In terms of hardware, Lansweeper recommends a minimum of 4 GB of RAM and a dual-core processor. More substantial projects may necessitate higher specifications. Increased memory and processing power can assist with faster data processing and improved multi-user performance. Hardware resources should be evaluated based on the expected size of the asset database and user count.

Additionally, sufficient disk space must be available to store the scanned data and any reports generated. A backup solution is also a good practice, ensuring that data is not lost in case of a failure. In summary, meeting the system requirements is crucial for optimal operation of Lansweeper.

Deployment Strategies

Deploying Lansweeper effectively requires planning and selecting the right strategy that aligns with the organizational goals. There are several deployment methods available.

On-premises Installation: Many organizations opt for installing Lansweeper on their local servers. This method offers full control over the data and installation environment. Organizations with existing infrastructure may prefer this option, especially those concerned with data security.
Cloud Deployment: For those with limited IT resources, cloud deployment may be an attractive option. This strategy reduces the burden of maintaining hardware and software within the organization and allows for scalable resources. However, businesses must evaluate the security measures of the cloud service provider to ensure data protection.
Pilot Testing: It is prudent to conduct pilot testing on a smaller scale before full deployment. This stage allows for identifying potential issues in a controlled environment. Organizations can tweak configurations based on outcomes from the pilot test.

"Successful deployment is about choosing the right strategy that matches the operational capacity and goals of the organization."

Overall, understanding these deployment strategies will help organizations tailor their approach. This adaptability leads to better resource utilization and a smoother transition to using Lansweeper for asset management.

Security Features

The significance of security features in Lansweeper cannot be overstated. As organizations increasingly rely on digital assets and networks, the need for robust security measures becomes crucial. Lansweeper addresses these security needs through various features built to protect sensitive data, ensure compliance, and foster a trusted IT environment. Organizations must understand the multifaceted nature of these security features, as they play a vital role in protecting assets, maintaining data integrity, and complying with industry regulations.

Data Protection Measures

Lansweeper provides several data protection measures designed to safeguard critical information. One key aspect is its ability to conduct risk assessments and identify vulnerabilities within the network. By systematically scanning assets, Lansweeper can highlight potential weaknesses that could be exploited by malicious entities. Additionally, Lansweeper employs encryption protocols for data that is transmitted across networks, thereby minimizing the risk of data breaches.

Moreover, regular updates and patches are crucial in maintaining security. Lansweeper keeps track of software versions and alerts users when updates are available. This ensures that organizations remain protected against known vulnerabilities that attackers might exploit.

Key data protection features include:

Automated vulnerability scans that detect flaws in systems.
Encryption of sensitive data during transmission.
Real-time alerts for software updates and potential threats.

Chart depicting pricing plans available for Lansweeper

Implementing these measures helps in establishing a strong foundation for data security, particularly for organizations handling sensitive information, such as personal data or payment information.

Compliance and Governance

Compliance and governance are essential elements in any organization handling data. Lansweeper’s features assist in achieving adherence to various regulations, such as GDPR or HIPAA. These regulations dictate how sensitive data should be stored, processed, and protected. Failure to comply can lead to severe penalties, not to mention a loss of reputation.

Lansweeper helps businesses maintain records of their assets, which is vital for compliance audits. The platform enables organizations to document the status of their hardware and software assets, ensuring accountability and traceability. Furthermore, it provides reports that demonstrate compliance with specific regulatory frameworks. This can be useful during internal audits or when facing external scrutiny from regulatory bodies.

A few compliance and governance strategies include:

Asset inventory management to ensure complete visibility of all resources.
Audit trails that keep track of changes and access to sensitive data.
Reporting features designed for compliance reviews and audits.

By integrating these compliance-focused features, Lansweeper aids organizations in building a governance framework that aligns with regulatory demands while minimizing the risk of non-compliance.

Customer Support and Resources

Customer support plays a crucial role in any software solution, particularly for complex tools like Lansweeper. Effective support ensures that users can maximize the utility of the features provided, leading to a more efficient asset management experience. Poor customer support can hinder productivity and even lead to dissatisfaction among users. Hence, understanding the support structure available for Lansweeper is essential for potential users.

Support Channels

Lansweeper offers various support channels to address inquiries and technical issues. These channels include:

Email Support: Users can contact Lansweeper's support team directly through email. This method allows for detailed descriptions of issues, which can be helpful for complex problems.
Knowledge Base: Lansweeper maintains a comprehensive knowledge base filled with articles, FAQs, and troubleshooting guides. This resource can empower users to find solutions independently without needing to reach out for help.
Community Forums: Users also have access to community forums where they can share experiences and solutions. This peer-to-peer support can be beneficial, especially for common issues.
Phone Support: For urgent matters, Lansweeper provides phone support. This direct method can lead to quicker resolutions.

In this multipronged approach, Lansweeper ensures users can find help in a manner that best suits their needs. This can be critical for IT professionals who require immediate assistance to maintain smooth operations.

Training and Documentation

Proper training and comprehensive documentation are foundational aspects of any software's support strategy. Lansweeper does well in these areas, offering the following resources:

User Manuals: These are detailed guides that cover all functionalities of the software, making it easier for users to explore and utilize the various features effectively.
Tutorial Videos: Visual learning aids can expedite the onboarding process. Lansweeper's tutorial videos guide users through essential tasks, enhancing understanding and efficiency.
Webinars: Periodic webinars are organized to provide insights into the software. These sessions cover new features and best practices, ensuring users remain updated.

Proper training resources are invaluable in a user’s journey with Lansweeper. They reduce the learning curve and promote better use of the software, ultimately improving asset management strategies.

In summary, effective customer support and rich training resources enhance user experience with Lansweeper, ensuring that businesses can effectively manage their IT assets.

These elements are not just conveniences; they are essential for maximizing the potential of Lansweeper in the fast-paced IT landscape.

Real-World Applications

Understanding the real-world applications of Lansweeper is crucial for businesses considering its implementation. This section aims to demonstrate how effective Lansweeper can be in various contexts. The insights gained from these applications underline the software's utility and versatility in enhancing asset management and network discovery tasks.

Users across sectors have successfully leveraged Lansweeper to streamline their IT operations. One significant benefit is automating the discovery of networked devices. This capability helps companies maintain accurate inventory records and oversee their IT infrastructure more efficiently. Additionally, Lansweeper provides deep insights into each asset by gathering relevant data, which assists in compliance and security management. This ability to gather specific information enhances organizations’ capabilities in protection against vulnerabilities.

Another vital aspect is cost efficiency. Firms that have used Lansweeper report reduced time spent on manual tasks and improved accuracy in asset tracking. By having this automation in place, IT departments can focus on strategic efforts rather than routine maintenance. This positive impact on productivity cannot be understated.

Moreover, Lansweeper's integration with other tools and systems allows for a more cohesive work environment. Organizations can link it with helpdesk solutions or IT service management platforms, enabling more seamless workflows. The interoperability reduces data silos and fosters collaboration within teams.

Case Studies

The real-world case studies highlight practical applications of Lansweeper in different business environments. One notable example comes from a large educational institution struggling with managing a vast array of devices across multiple campuses. By adopting Lansweeper, the IT department improved device visibility significantly. The software enabled staff to perform a network scan that uncovered previously untracked devices, resulting in better asset allocation and reduced overhead costs.

Another case study originates from a mid-sized healthcare provider. This organization utilized Lansweeper to adhere to the stringent compliance requirements within the healthcare industry. With the software’s ability to monitor device status and security patches, the healthcare provider enhanced its overall security posture. They effectively addressed compliance audits by maintaining accurate asset records readily accessible for review.

Industry Use Cases

The use cases for Lansweeper extend across various industries. In the retail sector, businesses benefit from tracking point-of-sale systems and inventory management tools. By utilizing Lansweeper, retailers gain insights into equipment utilization, enabling better operational efficiency.

In the financial services industry, companies utilize Lansweeper for regular vulnerability assessments. The software’s reporting capabilities allow firms to quickly identify and mitigate risks related to their assets. Such proactive measures are essential in a highly regulated landscape where data breaches can result in severe penalties.

The success stories across different sectors underline Lansweeper’s adaptability and effectiveness as a best-in-class asset management solution, catering to the needs of diverse organizations.

User Feedback and Reviews

User feedback and reviews are essential components when evaluating any software solution, including Lansweeper. These insights offer a real-world perspective that can significantly influence decisions made by potential users. Understanding how current users experience Lansweeper can help businesses grasp its strengths and weaknesses better before making commitments. The opinions shared in reviews often highlight usability aspects, feature effectiveness, and overall customer satisfaction levels.

Reviews provide concrete examples of both positive and negative interactions users have with Lansweeper. By analyzing this feedback, IT professionals and business owners can make more informed choices that align with their unique requirements. Furthermore, this section emphasizes important considerations about user experiences and their relevance to those contemplating Lansweeper for asset management solutions.

Positive Aspects Noted by Users

Users of Lansweeper frequently highlight various positive aspects of the software. Many appreciate the intuitive interface, which simplifies the process of managing and discovering IT assets. Specifically:

Illustration of integration options within Lansweeper

Ease of Use: The dashboard and navigation tools are user-friendly, enabling quick access to essential features.
Comprehensive Discovery Capabilities: Many users express satisfaction with the depth of network discovery, which aids in maintaining an accurate inventory.
Custom Reporting: Users value the ability to generate tailored reports that meet their specific needs. This functionality supports informed decision-making.
Robust Integration: The software's ability to integrate seamlessly with other business systems is often celebrated, which facilitates smoother workflows.

These positive comments reflect the general consensus among users about Lansweeper's effectiveness and reliability.

Common Critiques

Despite the strengths noted by users, there are also critiques that merit attention. Common feedback includes:

Learning Curve: New users can find that there is a learning curve involved in mastering all features of the software. This can hinder the initial adoption process.
Pricing Concerns: Some users express a belief that pricing could be more competitive compared to alternative solutions.
Support Experience: While many appreciate the resources available, some users report dissatisfaction with the promptness and helpfulness of customer support interactions.
Feature Limitations: Certain users note that a few features could be more developed to enhance overall functionality.

These critiques provide a balanced view and should be carefully considered by potential users when evaluating Lansweeper. It is important to weigh both positive feedback and common areas of concern to form a well-rounded understanding of the product.

Competitive Analysis

Conducting a competitive analysis is essential in evaluating Lansweeper against other asset management solutions in the market. It allows businesses to understand where Lansweeper stands in relation to its competitors, examine its unique value propositions, and identify potential gaps in the software that could affect decision-making. It is vital for IT managers and business owners to align their specific needs with the capabilities offered by Lansweeper and its alternatives.

Comparison with Leading Alternatives

Lansweeper competes with several established tools in the asset management and network discovery sector. Key alternatives include SolarWinds, ManageEngine, and ServiceNow. Each of these platforms presents unique features and capabilities.

Key Factors of Comparison

Feature Sets: Lansweeper offers extensive discovery features, automated scanning, and detailed reporting. In contrast, SolarWinds is noted for its performance monitoring and extensive integrations.
User Interface: Lansweeper’s interface is often highlighted for its simplicity, while ServiceNow focuses on a more complex interface tailored for extensive IT operations.
Pricing Models: Pricing can differ significantly. Lansweeper’s pricing is generally competitive, but ManageEngine offers flexible options which might appeal to smaller firms.
Integration Capability: Lansweeper integrates well with various third-party applications, but SolarWinds offers deeper integrations with monitoring tools.

A proper understanding of these elements helps in making an informed decision for businesses assessing which tool aligns best with their needs.

Strengths and Weaknesses

When analyzing Lansweeper's strengths and weaknesses against its competitors, several aspects become evident.

Strengths

Robust Network Discovery: Lansweeper excels at quickly discovering all devices within a network.
Comprehensive Reporting: It provides detailed insights into asset utilization which can inform better decision-making.
User-Friendly Interface: Many users appreciate the clarity and ease of use of Lansweeper’s dashboard, which can reduce training time.

Weaknesses

Limited Advanced Features: Some competitors, like ServiceNow, provide more advanced IT service management functionalities.
Scalability Concerns: For larger organizations, Lansweeper might not scale as effectively compared to other solutions.

In summary, a thorough competitive analysis sheds light on Lansweeper's positioning in the marketplace. This insight is critical for businesses seeking to optimize their asset management processes by understanding how their choices impact overall operational efficiency.

Future Developments

The landscape of asset management software is constantly evolving. As businesses leverage technology to stay competitive, tools like Lansweeper must adapt and innovate. This section explores the future developments for Lansweeper, focusing on its upcoming features and product roadmap. Understanding these elements is crucial for businesses aiming to future-proof their IT asset management strategies.

Upcoming Features

Lansweeper is known for its robust functionality. The forthcoming upgrades promise to enhance user experience and operational efficiency. Some of the most anticipated features include:

Extended integration capabilities: Future updates aim to incorporate a wider range of software tools, facilitating smoother data flows between platforms.
Enhanced user interface: Responding to user feedback, Lansweeper plans to refine its interface for better accessibility and intuitiveness.
Advanced reporting tools: New analytical features are set to offer more in-depth insights into asset performance, aiding in strategic decision-making.
Mobile compatibility: As remote work becomes norm, Lansweeper is focusing on improving its mobile accessibility, ensuring users can manage assets on the go.

These features aim to address current limitations while aligning Lansweeper with the best practices in asset management.

Product Roadmap

Lansweeper's product roadmap is a testament to its commitment to continuous improvement. The roadmap outlines strategic milestones to guide the evolution of the software. Key components include:

Short-term goals: Immediate focus areas are enhancements in network discovery and asset tracking features. This will allow businesses to maintain a real-time view of their IT resources.
Medium-term initiatives: Development of artificial intelligence-driven insights is on the horizon. These insights will help organizations anticipate asset needs and optimize usage.
Long-term vision: Lansweeper aspires to integrate machine learning features that can autonomously identify inefficiencies and recommend actions, streamlining asset management processes.

"Understanding the product roadmap is essential for IT professionals. It helps align organizational needs with software capabilities."

Epilogue

In this article, we have comprehensively examined Lansweeper and its role as an asset management and network discovery solution. The importance of concluding insights cannot be overstated, as this section provides a necessary wrap-up of the essential elements discussed throughout. Conclusions help crystallize information and allow readers to best understand the core benefits and drawbacks of a product or service. In the case of Lansweeper, several considerations stand out, contributing to its relevance for businesses.

Summary of Insights

Lansweeper offers a multifaceted approach to IT asset management, characterized by robust features such as:

Powerful Network Discovery: Lansweeper's capability to automatically scan networks and discover connected devices provides a strong foundation for asset management.
Comprehensive Reporting and Analytics: Users benefit from a variety of customizable reports that enable data-driven decision-making.
Integrations: The ability to seamlessly integrate with other systems enhances functionality and provides an adaptable solution for businesses.
User-friendly Interface: The intuitive dashboard allows for efficient navigation, catering to both seasoned and new users.

Overall, the insights paint a picture of Lansweeper as a valuable asset management tool tailored for small to medium-sized businesses as well as IT professionals.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

In closing, the choice to adopt Lansweeper should depend on specific business needs and context. Considerations like budget, desired features, and existing workflows are crucial. Moreover, Lansweeper’s pricing models offer flexibility, which is beneficial for various business sizes. If real-time asset visibility and comprehensive management are primary goals, Lansweeper may be an excellent fit.

Recommendations include conducting a trial of Lansweeper to assess its compatibility with your organization's requirements. Engaging with user feedback can illustrate potential benefits and challenges that may not be immediately evident. Always ensure any solution maximizes your organization's efficiency and aligns with your strategic goals.

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