IVPN Review

Our Verdict 

Overall Rating: 7.4/10

IVPN is a robust VPN option designed for users who prioritize privacy. It upholds a strict no-logs policy, undergoes regular independent audits, accepts anonymous payment methods, and does not require an email address for registration. Although it delivers impressive speeds, its ability to unblock streaming services is limited.

More Info : Best VPN

Ranked #21 out of 62 VPNs

IVPN Category Ratings : 
  • Streaming: 2.0/10
  • Torrenting: 8.4/10
  • Privacy & Logging: 9.0/10
  • Speed: 9.0/10
  • Server Locations: 7.3/10
  • Bypassing Censorship: 5.0/10
  • Security & Features: 7.1/10
  • Ease of Use: 8.7/10
  • Customer Support: 9.0/10
  • Price & Value: 4.0/10
IVPN Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Transparent no-logs policy
  • Excellent local speed performance
  • Open-source and audited applications
  • Extensive security features
  • User-friendly apps for various devices
  • Responsive live chat support and comprehensive resources

Cons:

  • Limited server and IP address availability
  • Incompatibility with many streaming services
  • No Fire TV Stick application
  • Absence of VPN browser extensions
  • Additional cost for multi-hop feature
  • Port forwarding is not available
Overview

IVPN is a premium VPN service that emphasizes privacy and security. It is an excellent choice for users seeking anonymity online and offers effective performance with US Netflix. Registration can be completed anonymously without an email address, and payment options include Cash, Monero, or Bitcoin for enhanced privacy.

The service provides private DNS servers and a 30-day money-back guarantee. It features a kill switch on Windows, macOS, and Android platforms.

IVPN undergoes regular annual audits by Cure53, a reputable cybersecurity firm. In 2024, Cure53 identified only two low-level vulnerabilities, which have since been addressed.

Although IVPN does not offer 24/7 live chat support, it provides a well-developed knowledge base with online tutorials and a ticketing system with swift responses from customer support.

The service offers two subscription plans. The Standard plan includes access to WireGuard and OpenVPN, allows use on up to two devices, and includes an anti-tracker. The Pro plan provides the same features as the Standard plan but extends usage to an additional five devices and includes multi-hop functionality.

IVPN Key Data
Data Cap Unlimited
Download Speed 94Mbps
Logging Policy No Logs
Data Leaks No
Jurisdiction Gibraltar (Privacy Haven)
Servers 76
IP Addresses 225+
Countries with Servers 29
US Netflix Yes
Torrenting Partially
Simultaneous Connections 7
Works In China No
Support Live Chat
Cheapest Price $3.89/mo over 36 Months
Money-Back Guarantee 30-day Money-Back Guarantee
Official Website IVPN.net

Privacy & Logging Policy

No-Logs Service Headquartered in Gibraltar

Privacy & Logging Policy Rating: 9.0/10

IVPN stands out as one of the most privacy-conscious VPNs available. Its no-logs policy has undergone independent third-party audits, reinforcing its commitment to user privacy. The service takes additional measures to safeguard anonymity by accepting cash payments and allowing account registration without requiring an email address. Based in Gibraltar, IVPN operates outside of any data-sharing alliances. Overall, IVPN is a highly transparent VPN provider, ensuring a trustworthy approach to handling your data.

Ranked #10 out of 62 VPNs for Privacy & Logging Policy

Data Type Logged by IVPN
Account Information No
Browsing Activity No
Date of Last Connection No
Device Information No
DNS Queries No
Individual Bandwidth Usage No
Individual Connection Timestamps No
ISP No
Number of Simultaneous Connections No
Originating IP Address No
VPN Server IP No
VPN Server Location No

You can review IVPN’s complete privacy policy on its website.

IVPN is a transparent and relatively small VPN provider, managed by IVPN Limited, which is incorporated in Gibraltar. Although Gibraltar is a British Overseas Territory, it operates independently of the UK, which is advantageous for its privacy policies.

ivpn-websitecompanyteam-macos

According to IVPN’s website, the company employs a team of 11 professionals from seven different countries. For instance, CEO Nick Pestell is based in Berlin, Germany. IVPN’s team members are also accessible on LinkedIn, where their locations are visible.

IVPN’s manifesto, available on its website, advocates for “a future free from surveillance,” emphasizing a vision for “a human-centered internet, the flourishing of democracy, and a future free from surveillance.”

Additionally, IVPN has established an Ethics Guidelines document outlining its core values, which include:

  • No collection of personal information
  • No use of trackers
  • No reliance on third-party tools
  • No hidden agendas
  • No false promises
  • Commitment to openness and accountability
Logging Policy

Our analysis confirms that IVPN adheres to a genuine no-logs policy. The company does state that it will comply with legal requests from authorities; however, even if its servers were seized, no user data would be found.

This logging policy was independently verified in 2019 by Cure53, a highly respected security auditing firm.

Speed

Fast Local and International Speeds

Speed Rating: 9.0/10

Our 2024 speed tests indicate that IVPN delivers exceptional performance both locally and internationally. We recorded speeds of up to 94 Mbps on a baseline 100 Mbps internet connection. International speeds are also impressive, with an average reduction of just 14%. This level of performance makes IVPN suitable for streaming, gaming, and casual browsing.

Ranked #26 out of 62 VPNs for Speed

We evaluated IVPN’s impact on our standard 100 Mbps internet speed by connecting to servers across six continents. Below are the results:

No VPN (New York) US (New York) Canada (Toronto) US (Los Angeles) UK (London) Germany (Berlin) Brazil (São Paulo) Japan (Tokyo) South Africa (Johannesburg) Australia (Sydney)
Server Location rFb3dB09 usa flag - IVPN rFb3dB09 usa flag - IVPN WoTv5Vvu canada flag - IVPN rFb3dB09 usa flag - IVPN dHeUYe6K uk flag - IVPN iEI3xgej germany flag - IVPN 4CaWLzHZ brazil flag - IVPN M33DfTj2 japan flag - IVPN lbYz5PwI south africa flag - IVPN GBxJPLv7 australia flag - IVPN
Download Speed 100Mbps 94Mbps 89Mbps 92Mbps 89Mbps 89Mbps 92Mbps 83Mbps 83Mbps 78Mbps
Upload Speed 100Mbps 96Mbps 86Mbps 82Mbps 96Mbps 97Mbps 65Mbps 82Mbps 92Mbps 67Mbps
Ping 1ms 5ms 15ms 70ms 74ms 91ms 114ms 152ms 386ms 213ms
Distance 0mi 5mi 300mi 2,500mi 3,500mi 4,000mi 4,800mi 6,700mi 8,000mi 9,900mi

The data indicates that connecting to a nearby server has minimal impact on download speeds. We observed only a 6% reduction in speed, dropping to 94 Mbps, when connected to a local server in New York.

IVPN also maintained high speeds of up to 92 Mbps when connecting to servers on the West Coast and in Brazil.

When connecting to servers in Africa and Asia, we experienced approximately a 17% decrease in speed. Although this is slightly below average, it remains quite reasonable.

The chart below illustrates how IVPN’s download speeds compare to those of other leading VPNs:

IVPN

Low Latency Ideal for Online Gaming

Our 2024 speed tests reveal that IVPN ranks third in the lowest local ping times among the 62 VPNs we reviewed. With a latency of just 5 ms on a local connection, IVPN surpasses other high-quality VPNs such as NordVPN and PIA in terms of latency.

IVPN is an excellent choice for players seeking a stable VPN connection for fast-paced games like CS and PUBG.

Streaming Performance

Poor VPN for Streaming

Streaming Rating: 2.0/10

IVPN demonstrates inadequate performance for streaming purposes. Our recent evaluations indicate that while IVPN successfully unblocked US Netflix, it was unable to access other Netflix libraries, including those from the UK, Germany, and Japan. Additionally, IVPN failed to bypass restrictions on several other major streaming services such as BBC iPlayer, Disney+, and Amazon Prime.

IVPN is currently ranked 40th out of 62 VPNs in terms of streaming capability.

Streaming Platforms Unblocked by IVPN:
Streaming Platform Works with IVPN
Amazon Prime Video No
BBC iPlayer No
Channel 4 No
Disney+ No
Hotstar India No
Hulu No
ITVX No
Max No
Netflix US Yes

While IVPN occasionally succeeds in accessing US Netflix, it is primarily designed to prioritize privacy rather than circumventing geo-blocks.

Our testing revealed that only two servers, located in Ashburn, VA and Chicago, IL, were effective in unblocking US Netflix.

ivpn-streamingusnetflix-windows-scaled

IVPN has consistently failed to access BBC iPlayer, Disney+, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video.

Despite its limited success with US Netflix, we do not recommend IVPN for streaming purposes, as there are superior VPNs available for this use.

More Info : Best VPN

Torrenting

Strong Torrenting Performance

Torrenting Rating: 8.4/10

IVPN excels in torrenting capabilities. The service maintains strong privacy protections by not logging user activity and features a VPN kill switch to conceal your real IP address in the event of a connection drop. However, it restricts P2P activity on its US servers, which may impact download speeds. Additionally, IVPN has recently begun phasing out its port forwarding feature for both new and existing customers.

IVPN is currently ranked 15th out of 62 VPNs for torrenting.

Summary of IVPN’s Performance in Torrenting Tests:
Torrenting Attribute Result
Average Download Bitrate 9.2MiB/s
No. of P2P Servers 76
Logging Policy No Logs
Kill Switch Yes
Port Forwarding No

In our P2P testing, we observed minimal speed reduction when torrenting on a local server. Without a VPN, the download speed for a test file was 10 MiB/s. When connected to a nearby IVPN server in the UK, the download speed decreased slightly to 9.2 MiB/s.

ivpn-qbittorrenttest-windows-

IVPN is significantly more effective for torrenting compared to streaming. It provides a high level of privacy and freedom for torrenting, with one notable exception: P2P traffic is not permitted on its US servers.

This restriction is due to IVPN receiving a substantial number of DMCA notices. Consequently, users are advised against torrenting on US servers, including those using double-hop VPN connections with a US exit node.

For users based in the United States, connecting to Canadian servers is an option, though it may result in slower torrent speeds.

SOCKS5 Proxy and Port Forwarding

IVPN offers a SOCKS5 proxy service compatible with all its servers. However, the company is gradually phasing out its port forwarding feature due to significant abuse following an increase in new customers.

New users will no longer have access to port forwarding as part of their Pro plan, and existing Pro customers will not be able to reserve new ports. All reserved ports will be completely removed by September 30, 2023.

Server Locations

Small Server Network Covering 29 Countries

Server Locations Rating: 7.3/10

IVPN’s server network, while covering 29 countries, is relatively small. The service offers city-level servers in only 5 countries, which is somewhat limiting. Additionally, there is a need for more servers in South America, Asia, and Africa to enhance global coverage.

IVPN is currently ranked 29th out of 62 VPNs for server locations.

Server Network Overview:
  • 29 Countries
  • 40 Cities
  • 225+ IP Addresses
Available Server Regions with IVPN:
Continent Number of Countries
Europe 24
Asia 6
South America 1
North America 2
Africa 1
Oceania 1

IVPN operates servers in 29 countries across 40 cities, with the majority concentrated in Western Europe and North America.

City-Level Server Options:
  • Canada: Montreal, Toronto
  • United Kingdom: London, Manchester
  • United States: Ashburn, Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Las Vegas, Miami, New Jersey, New York, and more.

We are pleased to note the presence of 12 server locations in the US.

However, IVPN has only one server location in Australia, and we would like to see additional servers, particularly on the west coast in Perth. Australian users may want to consider NordVPN for more comprehensive coverage.

In South America, IVPN provides a single server in Brazil, and in East Asia, it offers three servers across Japan, Singapore, and Hong Kong.

IVPN-server-list-min

The VPN service provides between three and five IP addresses per server, totaling a range of approximately 228 to 380 IP addresses.

The limited number of servers and available IP addresses may contribute to the slower speeds experienced with IVPN.

Bypassing Web Censorship

Offers Obfsproxy But Doesn’t Work in China

Bypassing Censorship Rating: 5.0/10

IVPN does not successfully bypass the Great Firewall of China, though it does perform adequately in other high-censorship regions. The service includes Obfsproxy, a feature designed to obfuscate traffic, but it significantly reduces internet speeds. Additionally, Obfsproxy is only available on the Windows and macOS applications, making it incompatible with mobile devices.

IVPN is currently ranked 34th out of 62 VPNs for its effectiveness in bypassing web censorship.

However, IVPN’s Obfsproxy tool is still effective for bypassing censorship in countries such as Russia and Turkey.

To enable Obfsproxy, navigate to Settings and select Connection > Use Obfsproxy.

ivpn-obfsproxysocks-macOS-annotated

This tool masks your VPN traffic, making it look ‘normal’ to web censors. Sadly, it is not available on iOS or Android.

Security & Technical Features

Good Choice of Protocols & Many Security Features

Security & Technical Features Rating: 7.1/10

IVPN is a reliable and secure VPN service, offering a robust selection of protocols including OpenVPN and WireGuard, with traffic encrypted using AES-256. The service has also open-sourced its application code and undergone a third-party security audit to further validate its security measures.

IVPN is currently ranked 31st out of 62 VPNs for security and technical features.

Protocols

Protocols Available in IVPN
IKEv2/IPSec Yes
L2TP/IPSec Yes
OpenVPN (TCP/UDP) Yes
WireGuard Yes

Encryption

Encryption Available in IVPN
AES-128 No
AES-192 No
AES-256 Yes
Blowfish No
ChaCha20 Yes

Security

Security Available in IVPN
Diskless Servers No
DNS Leak Blocking Yes
First-party DNS Yes
IPv6 Leak Blocking Yes
Supports TCP Port 443 Yes
VPN Kill Switch Yes
WebRTC Leak Blocking No

Advanced Features

Advanced Features Available in IVPN
Ad Blocker Yes
Dedicated IP No
Double VPN Yes
SOCKS Yes
Split Tunneling Yes
Static IP No
Tor over VPN Server No
Tracker Blocker No
Protocols and Encryption

IVPN offers a selection of four protocols: OpenVPN, WireGuard, IPSec, and IKEv2. While the latter two require manual configuration, OpenVPN and WireGuard are sufficient for most users. All VPN connections are secured with AES-256 encryption, known for its robust security.

Reliable Kill Switch

IVPN includes a ‘firewall’ feature, acting as a kill switch that blocks all web traffic if the VPN connection drops, ensuring your true IP address remains hidden. This feature is available on Windows, macOS, and Android.

However, in August 2023, IVPN removed its kill switch feature from the iOS app after discovering that Apple’s implementation was leaking some traffic to Apple’s servers. While this reflects IVPN’s proactive approach to security issues, the service could have included a notification within the app, allowing users to decide whether to trust Apple’s handling of the kill switch.

Tracker Blocker Tool

In addition to using its own DNS servers to prevent IP address exposure to third parties, IVPN offers protection against DNS and IPv6 leaks. It also features built-in ad and tracker blocking for enhanced privacy.

More Info : Best VPN

Multi-hop Servers

IVPN’s Multi-hop feature provides an additional layer of security by routing your connection through multiple servers in different countries. This ensures that even if the exit server is compromised, your online activity remains protected. Please note that this feature is only available with the more expensive ‘Pro’ plan.

Split Tunneling

IVPN’s desktop and Android applications support split tunneling, allowing you to direct privacy-sensitive applications through the VPN while routing other traffic through your standard internet connection.

Two-Factor Authentication and QR Code Mobile Login

We are pleased to see that IVPN has incorporated two rare and valuable login features: two-factor authentication and QR code login for mobile devices. These enhancements significantly improve account security and ease of use.

ivpn-twofactorauthentication-website

Two-Factor Authentication and QR Code Login

As depicted in the image above, you can enable two-factor authentication from the client area on IVPN’s website to enhance the security of your VPN account.

In the VPN Accounts section, IVPN provides a login QR code that you can scan with your mobile device for quick access to the mobile app, eliminating the need to manually enter your credentials.

Third-Party Security Audit

IVPN’s security measures are validated through an annual third-party security audit conducted by Cure53. We are pleased to note that IVPN publishes the full audit report online, providing transparency.

A security audit serves to verify a VPN service’s security claims with concrete evidence. For instance, it assesses the robustness of IVPN’s implementation of the AES-256 cipher, ensuring that its security claims are supported by rigorous testing.

ivpn-2024-security-audit

IVPN’s latest security audit, conducted by the esteemed German cybersecurity firm Cure53, was completed in April 2024.

Cure53 conducted an extensive eight-day assessment, including penetration tests and source code audits, focusing on IVPN’s Web UI, backend components, API endpoints, web servers, and overall web infrastructure.

Over the past three years, IVPN has significantly enhanced its security posture, as demonstrated by Cure53’s findings. The audit revealed no critical or high-level vulnerabilities.

Below is a table comparing the number of vulnerabilities identified in Cure53’s audits of IVPN:

Year Critical High-level Medium-level Low-level
2022 0 1 6 1
2023 0 0 1 6
2024 0 0 0 2
Open-Source VPN Apps

In its renewed commitment to security and transparency, IVPN has made its code available on GitHub, becoming one of the few VPN providers with open-source applications.

This initiative allows the broader security community to thoroughly examine the code, enhancing scrutiny of the apps’ functionality and their privacy and security measures.

By providing access to its codebase, IVPN demonstrates a high level of transparency regarding how its VPN clients operate and protect user privacy.

This move by IVPN sets a commendable example, and it would be beneficial for more VPN providers to adopt a similar approach.

Device & OS Compatibility

Device Compatibility

IVPN is compatible with most major platforms and devices, including Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, and Linux. It can also be configured on specialized routers. However, IVPN does not offer browser extensions for Chrome or Firefox.

Supported Apps:
  • Windows
  • macOS
  • iOS
  • Android
  • Linux
  • Router

IVPN excels in device compatibility and permits up to seven simultaneous connections with the Pro plan, exceeding the industry average. The table below illustrates the differences between IVPN’s various apps:

Protocol Firewall/Kill Switch Multi-Hop Split Tunnel Ad & Tracker Blocker Custom DNS
Windows OpenVPN (TCP and UDP), WireGuard (IPv6 tunnel)
macOS OpenVPN (TCP and UDP), WireGuard (IPv6 tunnel)
iOS IKEv2, OpenVPN (UCP and TCP), WireGuard
Android IKEv2 IPSec, OpenVPN (UCP and TCP), WireGuard
Router Setup

IVPN can be configured on a range of compatible routers, including DD-WRT, pfSense, and Tomato. For detailed instructions, refer to IVPN’s Help Center.

Please note that setting up a VPN on a router may be challenging for beginners.

Games Consoles & Streaming Devices
  • Apple TV
  • Amazon Fire TV
  • Chromecast
  • Nintendo
  • PlayStation
  • Roku
  • Xbox

IVPN may not be the most suitable choice for use with gaming consoles or streaming devices such as Fire TV Stick and Apple TV. There is no dedicated app for Firestick, and it does not offer a Smart DNS tool.

However, there are alternatives for using IVPN with these devices:

  1. Router Configuration: The simplest solution is to set up the VPN on your home router, which will secure all devices connected to it.
  2. OpenVPN Software: You can configure some devices with OpenVPN. IVPN currently provides guides for Kodi and Fire TV Stick.
  3. VPN-Enabled Device: Connect your gaming console or streaming device to another device that is running the VPN. Note that this method may not be compatible with all devices.

Ease of Use

Simple & Attractive App

Rating: 8.7/10

IVPN’s applications are designed with both simplicity and elegance, providing an intuitive user experience. Connecting to the nearest server or selecting a different location is straightforward via a scrollable server list. Overall, IVPN is user-friendly and does not require any technical expertise.

Ranked #14 out of 62 VPNs for Ease of Use

IVPN’s desktop applications for Windows and macOS are contemporary, straightforward, and highly functional. The settings menu allows users to configure their kill switch preferences, switch between UDP and TCP protocols, and select their desired port. Additionally, there is a dedicated section for adjusting OpenVPN parameters, catering to more advanced users.

The mobile apps for Android and iOS are equally user-friendly, boasting a modern design and quick connection capabilities.

IVPN Desktop Apps: Windows and macOS

ivpn-windows-vs-mac

We are pleased to note that IVPN’s Windows and macOS applications are identical in functionality, a rarity among VPN services where discrepancies between platforms are common.

The latest update has introduced a sleek, user-friendly interface that is both modern and streamlined.

The homepage provides easy access to single-hop and multi-hop servers, displays your selected protocol, WiFi network, and includes toggles for the kill switch (Firewall) and ad blocker (AntiTracker).

Within the server list, users can choose from options such as the fastest server, a random server, or their favorites. A search bar is available for locating specific countries, and sorting options include city, latency, and proximity to your current location.

ivpn-homepageserverlist-macOS

Previously, switching servers required disconnection from the current server. We are pleased to note that the updated functionality now allows users to select a new server without the need to disconnect first.

More Info : Best VPN

IVPN Mobile Apps: Android and iOS

ivpn-android-vs-ios

IVPN maintains a consistent design across both desktop and mobile platforms. As illustrated in the image above, the Android app homepage mirrors the information and settings available on the desktop applications.

Both the Android and iOS apps feature a split-screen interface. One side displays a map indicating your current location or connection status, while the other side shows your connection status, including options to disconnect, single-hop and multi-hop servers, and details about your currently connected server.

The Android and iOS apps incorporate nearly all the advanced features available on the desktop version, including multi-hop, an ad blocker, and custom DNS. However, it is worth noting that while the Android app includes a kill switch, this feature is not available on the iOS version.

Customer Support

Helpful Live Chat & Extremely Valuable Online Resources

Rating: 9.0/10

IVPN provides robust customer support options, including a comprehensive website with detailed guides and installation tutorials. While live chat support is available, it is not offered 24/7, which would enhance the support experience. When live chat is unavailable, users can contact the support team via email.

Ranked #6 out of 62 VPNs for Customer Support

Customer Support Available in IVPN
24/7 Email Support No
24/7 Live Chat Support No
Chatbot No
Email Yes
Email Support via Online Form No
Live Chat Support Yes
Online Resources Yes
Tutorial Videos No

The primary enhancement IVPN could make to its support would be to offer 24/7 live chat. Currently, live chat support is available only at certain times of the day. Apart from this, there are no significant issues with the support service.

ivpn-submitticket-website

We submitted a support ticket and received a response within an hour. The support agents are prompt and courteous, providing valuable information whenever possible, as long as the service is online during your request.

If the support team is unable to resolve your issue, the IVPN knowledge base offers a comprehensive and well-organized repository of information.

More Info : Best VPN

Additionally, you can engage with other users or contact customer support directly through IVPN’s Reddit community. For those seeking enhanced privacy, IVPN also offers the option to use a PGP key for secure communication with their support team.

Price & Value

Higher Than Average Price Tag

Rating: 4.0/10

IVPN is relatively expensive considering its limited functionality. The service offers two subscription tiers: IVPN Standard and IVPN Pro. The higher-priced Pro option provides more features and better overall value. As with other VPNs, long-term subscriptions offer significantly better value compared to short-term monthly plans.

Ranked #35 out of 62 VPNs for Price & Value

IVPN offers two primary pricing plans: IVPN Standard and IVPN Pro, with options for one week, one month, one year, two years, or three years.

The Standard plan allows only two simultaneous connections, which is unusual compared to many top-rated VPNs that typically offer at least five. The Pro plan, priced at $10 per month on a rolling basis, provides seven concurrent connections and includes multi-hop functionality.

For short-term use, you can opt for a one-week plan at $2.00 for the Standard plan or $4.00 for the Pro plan.

Subscription Pricing:
  • Standard Plan:
    • Monthly: $6.00
    • 12 Months: $60.00 ($5.00/month, 17% savings)
    • 2 Years: $100.00 ($4.17/month, 25% savings)
  • Pro Plan:
    • Monthly: $10.00
    • 12 Months: $100.00 ($8.33/month, 17% savings)
    • 2 Years: $160.00 ($6.67/month, 33% savings)
Payment & Refund Options

IVPN accepts a variety of payment methods, including:

  • Bitcoin
  • Cash
  • Mastercard
  • Monero
  • PayPal
  • Visa

While IVPN does not offer a free trial, it provides a 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing for a full refund if requested within one month of activation.

In addition to standard payment methods like credit/debit cards and PayPal, IVPN accepts Bitcoin and Monero. Cash payments are also accepted, though this requires an annual plan and may take up to 10 days to process. IVPN does not support international payment options such as Alipay or UnionPay.

I'm Mihir Thumar, a dedicated movie enthusiast who never misses the release of new movies or TV series. My discovery of VPN and IPTV services unlocked a world of entertainment, providing a vast selection of TV channels, movies, and web series—all in one place.

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