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Computer Networking Interview Questions and Answers

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Prepare for networking interviews with these common computer networking questions and answers to boost your chances of success.

What to Expect in Computer Networking Interviews (Beginner’s Guide)  

Computer networks provide the basis for connectivity, data exchange, and communication between companies and industries in the current tech-driven world. Having an advanced understanding of computer networking rules is important when you’re looking for positions as an IT support professional, network engineer, system administrator, or privacy and security analyst.  

Your comprehension of important networking principles, rules, equipment, and security is usually examined by interviewers. In helping both new hires and experienced employees in preparing for technical interviews in 2025, this guide offers exhaustive computer networks interview questions and answers. 

By following this guide, you can develop the confidence you need to respond to simple inquiries, demonstrate your problem-solving skills in practical situations, and impress hiring managers with your present networking knowledge. 

Top Basic Networking Interview Questions for Freshers (2025 Edition)

Illustration of a virtual interview where a fresher answers basic networking questions from an online recruiter.

If you’re new to networking, interviewers expect you to know the basics. The following list includes some of the most typical fundamental questions that any novice should be able to give an answer to.

  1. What is a computer network?  

A computer network is a group of computers that are linked (including desktops, printers, and routers) that can communicate with one another and share resources (including papers, printers, and internet connections, in fact). Examples of the various sizes and types of networks include small personal networks (LANs) and large networks that span several nations (WANs).  

  1. How do LAN, WAN, and MAN different from them all?

  1. Describe IP addressing (IPv4 and IPv6).

The devices on the system can be identified only by their IP addresses. 

  1. How does subnetting operate, and what is a subnet mask?

A subnet mask divides an IP address into host and network sections. Subdivision allows a large network to be split up into smaller networks for better security and management.  

  1. What defines a MAC address compared to an IP address?

  1. What are hubs, gateways, switches, and routers?




  1. How does DNS resolve domain names and what is it?

The DNS (Domain Name System) transforms human-friendly domain names, like www.google.com, into IP addresses that are used by devices to identify other devices on a network.  

  1. How does DHCP allocate IP addresses?

To make management easier, DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) automatically assigns IP addresses and network configurations to devices connected to a network.   

  1. Explain the role of firewalls in network security.

In order to prevent unneeded access to networks, firewalls keep watch on and control all incoming and outgoing network traffic according to established safety standards.  

  1. What is a VPN and why is it used?

A virtual private network, or VPN, allows users who are located far away to safely access a private network by establishing a secure, encrypted connection over the internet.

OSI and TCP/IP Model Interview Questions with Layer-Wise Explanation

Illustration of remote users sharing data via cloud, representing OSI and TCP/IP model layers for interview question prep.

Understanding the OSI model’s layers and the TCP/IP protocol suite is crucial for any networking interview. These models outline data transfer across networks and offer frameworks for understanding network communication. The following is a list of the main OSI model interview questions that are commonly asked in technical interviews.  

  1. What is the OSI model? Explain all 7 layers with functions

The OSI (Open Systems Interconnection) model is a theoretical structure developed by ISO that breaks down the internal structure of a computer or telecommunications system into seven distinct layers. It makes it easier to understand how different networking protocols work and interact.  

The 7 Layers of the OSI Model:  

  1. Physical Layer  
  1. Data Link Layer  
  1. Network Layer  

4.Transport Layer  

  1. Session Layer  
  1. Presentation Layer  
  1. Application Layer  
  1. How is the OSI model different from the TCP/IP model?

The TCP/IP model is a practical four-layer model for everyday life networking, particularly for the internet. compared to the conceptual OSI model, the TCP/IP model is implementation-oriented and protocol-based. 

Layers of the TCP/IP Protocol Suite:  

  1. Network Access Layer – Corresponds to OSI’s physical and data link layers.  
  2. Internet Layer – Similar to OSI’s network layer (IP routing).  
  3. Transport Layer – Equivalent to OSI’s transport layer (TCP/UDP).  
  4. Application Layer – Combines OSI’s session, presentation, and application layers.  

Key Differences: 

Feature  OSI Model  TCP/IP Model 
Number of Layers  7  4 
Developed By  ISO  DARPA (U.S. Department of Defense) 
Protocol Dependency  Protocol-independent  Protocol-dependent (built around TCP/IP) 
Usage  Reference model  Real-world internet model 



  1. Real-world example of data flow through OSI/TCP-IP layers.

Let’s consider sending an email from your laptop using a mail client (like Outlook):  

The receiving system resets this process. These steps are more separated but follow the same principles in the TCP/IP model.  

  1. Common questions comparing OSI vs TCP/IP models.

You could get requested to compare the models or provide their applications in reality during an interview. Examples of interview questions using the OSI model that compared the two models are given below:  

Top IP Addressing and Subnetting Interview Questions (With Answers)

Visual showing professionals discussing IP addressing and subnetting concepts for interview preparation using servers and network data.

Two important networking concepts that are commonly tested in interviews are IP addressing and subnetting. Network professionals have to understand the different kinds of IP addresses, how subdivision functions, and how IP addressing changes as a result of technologies like NAT and IPv6. Below is a list of the most frequently asked subnetting interview questions along with their full responses. 

  1. Types of IP addresses: Public, Private, Static, Dynamic

The various kinds of IP address have a distinct function in networking.  

  1. Public IP Address:
  1. Private IP Address:

Not available on the internet but applied inside internal networks.
Ranges:  

  1. Static IP Address:
  1. Dynamic IP Address:
  1. What is CIDR (Classless Inter-Domain Routing)?

CIDR is the procedure for efficiently assigning IP addresses and directing Internet Protocol packets. It replaced the earlier system that was based on classes.  

Notation: 192.168.1.0/24  

/24 denotes that the network portion consists of the first 24 bits.  

CIDR allows:  

Interview Tip: You may be challenged to figure out how many usable IP addresses there are in a CIDR block, such as /28. The answer is 14 usable addresses.  

  1. Subnetting explained with examples

Subnetting creates smaller, simpler to manage smaller networks (subnets) within a larger network. It improves network security and performance.  

Example Scenario:  

The network 192.168.1.0/24 is provided to you, and you are instructed to make four equal networks.  

Step 1: Determine the number of bits to borrow:  

Step 2: New subnet mask = /26 (255.255.255.192)  

Step 3: Subnets:  

Each subnet supports 62 hosts (2^6 – 2 = 62).  

Subnetting Interview Questions You Might Face:  

  1. How does NAT operate and what is it?

The routers use NAT (Network Address Translation) to convert private IP addresses into public ones and vice versa.  

How NAT Works:  

 Types of NAT: 

Benefits:  

  1. Difference between IPv4 and IPv6

The limitations of IPv4, particular it running out of IP addresses, were addressed with the introduction of IPv6.

Feature  IPv4  IPv6 
Address Length  32-bit  128-bit 
Format  Decimal (e.g., 192.0.2.1)  Hexadecimal (e.g., 2001:0db8::1) 
Address Space  ~4.3 billion addresses  ~340 undecillion addresses 
Header Size  20 bytes  40 bytes 
Security  Optional (IPSec)  Built-in IPSec support 
NAT Requirement  Yes  No (public addresses are sufficient) 

Interview Insight: the benefits of still using IPv4, several companies are converting to IPv6. Prepare to talk about dual-stack systems.

Network Protocols Interview Questions (TCP, UDP, HTTP, DNS)

Communication of data is guided by a number of protocols that power networking. Questions involving network protocols, their uses, and their differences are frequently asked during interviews. The important network protocols, interview inquiries, and answers that all candidates should be familiar with are listed below.

  1. TCP vs. UDP: Key differences, pros and cons

One of the most frequent interview questions is about the difference between TCP and UDP. Since they serve different purposes, they are both essentially transport layer protocols.

Feature  TCP (Transmission Control Protocol)  UDP (User Datagram Protocol) 
Connection  Connection-oriented  Connectionless 
Reliability  Reliable, guarantees delivery  Unreliable, no delivery guarantees 
Ordering  Ensures packets arrive in order  No order guarantee 
Speed  Slower due to error checking and handshakes  Faster, less overhead 
Use Cases  Web browsing (HTTP/HTTPS), email, FTP  Streaming, VoIP, DNS, gaming 
Overhead  Higher  Lower 

Pros of TCP:  

Pros of UDP:  

Interview Tip: Be prepared to justify your selection of one option over the other in an application.

  1. Role of ICMP, ARP, and DNS protocols

ICMP (Internet Control Message Protocol):  

ARP (Address Resolution Protocol):  

It converts IP addresses to MAC addresses on a local network. 

It is necessary for LAN device communication. 

DNS (Domain Name System):  

Interview Insight: Be ready for scenarios like “What happens when you type a URL in the browser?” that make calls for the use of one of these protocols. 

  1. An Overview of FTP, SMTP, HTTP, and HTTPS

Performing network protocols interview questions involves an understanding of application-layer protocols.

  1. Routing Protocols: RIP, OSPF, BGP, and EIGRP

The way communications proceed between networks is controlled by protocols for routing. Some of the most significant are listed below. 

  1. RIP (Routing Information Protocol):
  1. OSPF (Open Shortest Path First):
  1. BGP (Border Gateway Protocol):
  1. EIGRP (Enhanced Interior Gateway Routing Protocol):  

Interview Tip: Using the three-way TCP handshake, a reliable connection gets established between the client and server in advance of data transfer. 

  1. Explain the 3-way TCP handshake  

In advance of data transfer, a reliable connection is established between the client and server via the three-way TCP handshake.

Steps:  

  1. SYN: In order to create a connection, the client sends the server a SYN (synchronize).   
  2. SYN-ACK: A recognition, or SYN-ACK, has been provided by the server. 
  3. ACK: To verify that the connection has been made, the client sends an ACK.  

Diagram:  

Client           Server  

  | —- SYN —-> |  

  | <— SYN-ACK – |  

  | —- ACK —-> |  

Why It Matters:  

Follow-Up Interview Question: TCP breakdown (4-way FIN handshake): what is it? Additionally, be ready to explain why the session ended.  

Networking Devices and Topologies Interview Questions

Keywords like network components, network structures, and network structure interview questions are the focus of this section. For both new and seasoned applicants hoping to ace networking interviews, mastering these subjects is important.  

  1. Routers vs. Switches vs. Hubs: Key differences  

Networking interviews need a basic understanding of network devices. Here is the list of connections: 

Feature  Router  Switch  Hub 
OSI Layer  Layer 3 (Network)  Layer 2 (Data Link) or Layer 3  Layer 1 (Physical) 
Function  Routes data between different networks  Connects devices within the same network  Broadcasts data to all ports 
Intelligence  High (IP-based routing, NAT, ACLs)  Moderate (MAC address learning)  None (no filtering or processing) 
Efficiency  Very efficient  Efficient  Least efficient 
Use Case  Home/enterprise gateways, internet access  LAN management  Obsolete, legacy networks only 

Interview Tip: Be prepared to explain when and why to use each device.  

  1. What is a Layer 3 Switch?

The characteristics of a switching device and a router are combined in a layer three switch:  

Benefits:  

Real-World Scenario: Layer 3 switches are ideal in a campus network to route between departments (e.g., HR, IT, Finance VLANs). 

  1. Topologies: Mesh, Ring, Star, Bus, and Hybrid

The arrangement and connectivity of devices are determined by network topologies. Knowing their advantages and disadvantages is essential for network architecture interview questions. 

Topology  Description  Pros  Cons 
Bus  All devices connected to a single backbone  Easy to set up, low cable use  Difficult to troubleshoot, not scalable 
Star  All nodes connect to a central hub/switch  Easy to manage and troubleshoot  If the central device fails, entire network fails 
Ring  Devices form a closed loop  Predictable performance  A break affects the whole network 
Mesh  Every device connects to every other  Redundancy and fault tolerance  Expensive and complex 
Hybrid  Combination of two or more topologies  Flexible, scalable  Design complexity 

Interview Tip: Be ready to recommend a topology based on use case scenarios, such as office setups or data centres. 

  1. What is VLAN and its benefits?

VLAN (Virtual Local Area Network) allows a real-world network to be logically divided into various domains for broadcasting. 

Key Benefits:  

Example: if they are connected to the same switch, employees from various teams may be on different VLANs  

Interview Scenario: “Explain how VLANs help in the control of network traffic in a large office complex,”  

5. What differentiates Broadcast, Anycast, Multicast, and Unicast? 

 These communication methods define how data is delivered over a network:  

Type  Destination  Example Use Case 
Unicast  One sender → one receiver  Web browsing, file download 
Multicast  One sender → selected receivers  Video conferencing, IPTV 
Broadcast  One sender → all devices on network  ARP requests, DHCP discovery 
Anycast  One sender → nearest receiver (based on routing)  CDN services, DNS resolution 

Interview Insight: Prepare some examples, such as when downloading a file (single cast) versus streaming a video to many people (multicast).  

Mid to Senior-Level Network Engineer Interview Questions

Advanced networking interview questions that are common in mid-to-senior level positions are covered in this section. These typical networking interview questions will increase your confidence and preparation if you’re getting ready for jobs as a network engineer, architect, or security analyst.  

  1. What is BGP and how does it prevent routing loops?

Autonomous systems (AS) use the BGP (Border Gateway Protocol), the website’s base routing protocol, for transmitting connecting information.  

Key Features:  

Use Case: To manage external traffic movements and provide redundant systems, ISPs and large companies use BGP.  

Interview Tip: Be ready to describe how BGP manages convergence delays, flapping, and route advertisements.

  1. What is MPLS and how does it manage network traffic?  

Data is routed using short path labels rather than IP addresses using a technique called MPLS (Multiprotocol Label Switching).  

How it works:  

Benefits  

Use Case: the company WANs and common in-service providers to guarantee performance for important applications.  

  1. Explain SDN (Software Defined Networking)

Software Defined Networking, or SDN, is a contemporary technique that divides network devices’ control plane and data plane.  

Core Components:  

Benefits:

Interview Scenario: “Explain how SDN enhances network flexibility in contrast to traditional networks,”  

  1. What is a DMZ and how does it enhance network security?  

A private local network is separate from external, unsecured networks, like the internet, by a logical or everyday life subnetwork called a “DMZ” (Demilitarized Zone).  

Purpose:  

DMZ Architecture:  

Benefits of Security:  

Interview Tip: Prepare yourself to describe how to create a safe DMZ within company settings.  

  1. How to troubleshoot latency and packet loss?  




Performance can be affected by packet loss and network latency.  

Troubleshooting Steps: 

Step  Tools/Techniques  Explanation 
Ping/Traceroute  ping, traceroute, mtr  Identify delay and hop-by-hop performance 
Check Interface Stats  netstat, ifconfig, SNMP  Look for CRC errors, collisions, queue drops 
Monitor Traffic  Wireshark, NetFlow, sFlow  Analyze packet patterns, retransmissions 
Check QoS Settings  Router/switch config  Ensure critical traffic isn’t deprioritized 
Analyze Congestion  Load balancers, bandwidth monitoring  Identify bottlenecks, high CPU/memory usage 

Interview Bonus Tip: Focus on your organized method to root cause analysis; for an accurate diagnosis, combine historical logs with actual time tools. 

Top Network Security and VPN Interview Questions (Firewall, IDS, Encryption)

To help you get ready for privacy and security, network engineering, or IT management positions of power, this section includes important network security and firewall interview questions. Understanding these ideas shows your abilities to protect data and network infrastructure.  

  1. What is a firewall? Types and functions

    A firewall is a software or hardware security tool that uses specified security rules to monitor and control all network traffic, both inbound and outbound. 

Main Functions:  

Types of Firewalls:  

Interview Tip: Prepare to compare stateful and stateless firewalls using examples from everyday life.  

  1. What is VPN tunneling and encryption protocols (IPSec, SSL/TLS)?  

A VPN, also known as a virtual private network, creates an encrypted, safe connection across a public network, usually the internet, to link distant computers or websites.  

Protocols for tunneling:  

VPN Security:  

Example: SSL VPNs are typically used for remote access, whereas IPSec VPNs are frequently used for site-to-site connectivity. 

  1. What are IDS and IPS?  

Security tools called intrusion detection systems (IDS) and intrusion prevention systems (IPS) keep monitoring on network traffic for suspicious patterns. 

Feature  IDS  IPS 
Purpose  Detection and alerting  Detection and prevention 
Action  Logs and notifies  Blocks or rejects traffic 
Deployment  Out-of-band  In-line 
Example Tool  Snort (IDS mode)  Suricata, Cisco Firepower (IPS) 

Use Case: if you are looking for information without affecting with traffic, IDS is perfect. Established risk reduction needs an intrusion detection and prevention system. 

  1. Network security best practices for interviews  

Pro Tips: Be prepared to describe how you’ve applied or enforced these practices in past projects or scenarios.  

  1. What is WPA2 vs WPA3 in wireless security?

Wireless security protocols like WPA2 (Wi-Fi Protected Access 2) and WPA3 protect Wi-Fi networks.

Feature  WPA2  WPA3 
Encryption  AES (CCMP)  AES with GCMP-256 
Key Exchange  Pre-Shared Key (PSK)  SAE (Simultaneous Authentication of Equals) 
Protection  Vulnerable to dictionary attacks  Resistant to offline brute-force attacks 
Forward Secrecy  Not supported  Supported 

Why WPA3 is better:  

Interview Tip: Emphasize the situations (such as enterprise, high-security environments) where WPA3 deployment is required.  

Scenario-Based Networking Interview Questions (With Real-World Examples)  

Illustration showing real-world networking interview scenarios with devices, data flow, and communication visuals.

This section focuses on networking interview questions designed specifically for seasoned professionals. Interviewers use these questions to evaluate your practical knowledge and your ability to solve real-world problems. If you’re applying for mid- to senior-level roles—such as network engineer, NOC technician, or system administrator—expect to face these types of questions regularly.

  1. What happens when you type www.google.com in your browser?  

Interviewers often ask this open-ended question to understand your thought process. Here’s how you can approach it step-by-step:

  1. DNS Resolution: Browser cache check → OS cache → DNS resolver → Root → TLD → Authoritative DNS server.  
  2. TCP Handshake: the web browser and the search engine’s server prove a three-way TCP handshake’s website  
  3. TLS Handshake: TLS is used to establish HTTPS encryption.  
  4. HTTP Request: To access https://www.google.com, the browser makes a GET request.  
  5. Server Response: HTML, JS, CSS, and other elements are used by Google in its response.  
  6. Rendering: The web page is parsed and shown by the browser.  
  7. Caching & Keep-Alive: Permanent connections may be maintained, and specific resources are cached.  

Pro Tip: For a more technical explanation, always connect each step to the OSI or TCP/IP layers.

  1. Diagnose a slow internet connection in an enterprise  

To recognize weak connectivity:  

Step-by-Step Diagnosis:  

Interview Insight: Use actual tools to demonstrate that you adhere to a methodical, layer-by-layer process.  

  1. Explain a real-world subnetting example  

Scenario: You are given directions to establish four equal subnets using the IP block 192.168.10.0/24.  

Step-by-Step:  

  1. 192.168.10.0/26 (IPs 0–63)  
  2. 192.168.10.64/26 (IPs 64–127)  
  3. 192.168.10.128/26 (IPs 128–191)  
  4. 192.168.10.192/26 (IPs 192–255)  

Interview Tip: Include the accessible hosts for each subnet as well as the exclusive broadcast and network IP addresses (62). 

  1. Interview problem-solving tips for network outages  

Interviewers might inquire about your difficulty or pressure handling abilities. Make use of this framework:  

Problem-Solving Steps:  

STAR Format Example (Situation, Task, Action, Result) works well here. 

  1. Layer-wise troubleshooting of packet loss  

Packet loss affects VOIP, gaming, and real-time apps. Here’s a multi-layered approach:

OSI Layer  Troubleshooting Tip 
1  Check cables, ports, SFPs, signal integrity. 
2  Look for MAC flooding, loops, duplex mismatches. 
3  Run ping, traceroute, inspect routing tables. 
4  Analyze TCP retransmissions using Wireshark. 
7  Check app-level issues or overloaded servers. 



Pro Tip: In actual time testing, tools such as Wireshark, MTR, and IP SLA are required. 

Expert Tips to Ace Your Computer Networking Interview (2025 Edition)

Success depends on how well you exhibit both technical knowledge and practical experience, whether you’re getting ready for your first job or hoping to move into a more complicated networking role. In order to prepare you to confidently answer technical interview questions for networking roles, this section provides helpful tips for network engineer interview preparation.  

How to Answer Computer Networking Interview Questions with Confidence  

The language of technology does not usually have the same impact as your ability to respond confidently. Following is how to increase your confidence in oneself: 

Pro Tip: Always tie your responses to actual situations, tools you’ve used, or issues you have resolved. 

Networking Job Resume and LinkedIn Optimization Tips for Engineers

Verify that your profile on LinkedIn or resume is up to date with the job description and technical requirements because they are the first things people see about you. 

Resume Tips: 

LinkedIn Profile Tips:

Practical vs Theoretical Knowledge in Networking Interviews  

Interviewers usually choose candidates who have practical experience over those who only have conceptual understanding.

Here’s how to close the distance: 

Textbook Concept  Real-World Insight 
OSI Model  Troubleshooting based on layers using real tools 
Subnetting  Designing subnets for actual office networks or cloud VPCs 
TCP/UDP  Choosing protocols based on app needs (e.g., VOIP uses UDP) 
VLANs & Trunks  Implementing VLANs in Cisco or VMware environments 
NAT  Configuring NAT on Cisco routers or in cloud firewalls 

If you are just getting started: 

—The interviewers appreciate effort.  

Final Thought: To genuinely be successful in your networking interview, position your preparation as what you would when creating a strong network: a strong base, genuine connections, and an efficient architecture. You will differentiate yourself if you have project experience, technical fluency, and a confident mindset.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)  

What questions do interviewers commonly ask in networking interviews?

The following are some of the most typical networking interview questions:

  1. What is the OSI model and its layers?  
  2. Difference between TCP and UDP  
  3. What is subnetting?  
  4. Explain IP addressing (IPv4 vs IPv6). 
  5. What is a router, switch, and firewall?  
  6.  Describe DNS, DHCP, and NAT. 
  7. How does data flow across the network?  

What should I study for a network engineer interview?
Subjects to Study Before Your IT Network Engineer Interview:

Also, brush up on tools like Wireshark, Packet Tracer, and Cisco CLI if applicable.  

What is the difference between LAN and WAN?  

Example: The Wi-Fi in your office is a LAN, but the WAN is used to connect to a distant data center. 

How do I explain the OSI model in an interview?  

You can explain the OSI model by identifying its seven layers and giving a brief description of each: 

  1. Physical: Sends incomplete information via a medium  
  2. Data Link: Manages framing and MAC addresses  
  3. Network: Controls routing and logical addressing (e.g., IP).  
  4. Transport: Provides TCP/UDP end-to-end communication  
  5. Session: Controls sessions and controls conversation  
  6. Presentation: Transforms data formats (compression/encryption)  
  7. Application: The end user connection (e.g., FTP, HTTP)  

Tips: To make the clarification memorable, use analogies from everyday life, such as writing a letter.

Free Resources and Final Tips to Prepare for Networking Interviews (2025) 

As we wrap up, here’s a quick recap and a curated list of study materials to help you confidently answer even the most advanced networking concepts questions. 

Recap of Top Networking Interview Categories 

Whether you’re a fresher or an experienced candidate, interviews typically cover: 

Mastering these top networking interview questions can help you demonstrate both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience. 

Final Networking Interview Preparation Checklist 

Before stepping into your interview, make sure you: 

  1. Can explain OSI & TCP/IP models confidently
  2. Know how to subnet and calculate CIDR ranges
  3. Understand real-time protocols like TCP, UDP, ICMP, ARP, DNS
  4. Can compare IPv4 and IPv6 effectively
  5. Understand routing protocols like RIP, OSPF, BGP
  6. Can explain a network flow from user to destination (e.g., www.google.com)
  7. Know common security mechanisms (VPN, firewalls, IDS/IPS)
  8. Practice answering scenario-based and troubleshooting questions
  9. Have reviewed your resume and matched skills with job requirements 

Curated List of Free Resources to Learn Networking 

Here’s a hand-picked list of free books, platforms, and courses to master networking: 

Books (Free PDFs or Open Source) 

Online Learning Platforms 

Hands-on Practice Tools 

Ready to Crack Your Networking Interview? 

Understanding the theory is just the beginning. Combine it with real-world practice, lab simulations, and problem-solving skills to stand out in your networking interview. 

Whether you’re prepping for entry-level or senior-level roles, mastering these concepts ensures you’re equipped to handle any networking interview question thrown your way. 

 

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