Top-Rated Cyber Security Boot Camps to Boost Your Career in 2025
In 2025, cybersecurity has become an essential pillar of global digital infrastructure. With everything from healthcare systems and financial institutions to government databases and power grids relying on networked technologies, the importance of cybersecurity professionals has never been more pronounced. Attacks are increasing in scale and sophistication. Ransomware campaigns now target not just individuals and businesses but entire cities and governments. State-sponsored threats have escalated into hybrid cyber-warfare. Meanwhile, the adoption of cloud computing, AI, and IoT has widened the attack surface, making the need for skilled defenders more critical than ever.
Despite this demand, the global cybersecurity talent gap continues to widen. Industry reports estimate a shortfall of nearly five million professionals worldwide. The shortage is not just a matter of quantity but quality. Organizations need individuals who can think critically, respond to threats in real-time, and adapt to rapidly evolving technologies. Traditional academic pathways alone cannot keep up. Universities often struggle to update curricula as quickly as the threat landscape changes. As a result, bootcamps have emerged as an alternative pipeline, capable of producing job-ready professionals at a faster pace.
Cybersecurity bootcamps are structured to meet this urgent demand. They are typically short, intense programs—ranging from a few weeks to several months—focused on delivering high-impact, practical training. Rather than prioritizing theory-heavy instruction, bootcamps emphasize hands-on learning through labs, simulations, and real-world tools. This experiential focus prepares students to handle the dynamic environments they will face in professional roles. Many bootcamps use project-based learning and mimic actual job responsibilities to foster critical skills like threat hunting, penetration testing, and incident response.
One reason bootcamps are gaining traction in 2025 is their alignment with employer expectations. While a degree might demonstrate long-term academic commitment, hiring managers now care more about skills and outcomes. If a candidate can demonstrate proficiency with firewalls, SIEM platforms, vulnerability scanning tools, or compliance frameworks like NIST and ISO 27001, they stand a strong chance in the job market. Many bootcamps explicitly build their curricula around such industry needs, often incorporating certifications like CompTIA Security+, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), or CISSP as benchmarks for program success.
Another reason bootcamps are thriving is their accessibility. Many are available online, providing opportunities for learners across the globe to participate. Others offer hybrid formats with in-person labs for those who prefer physical classrooms. This geographic and logistical flexibility is essential in an era when professionals are seeking ways to transition into cybersecurity from unrelated careers. Former teachers, sales professionals, customer support agents, and even artists are using bootcamps to upskill and secure more stable, high-paying roles. The barrier to entry is relatively low, and the return on investment—both in terms of salary and career stability—is high.
In addition to accessibility, bootcamps offer a more immediate career pivot. Where a traditional degree might take years, a cybersecurity bootcamp can prepare someone for entry-level positions in a matter of months. Many bootcamps partner with employers to provide job placement assistance, resume writing workshops, and interview coaching. Some even guarantee job placement within a certain period or offer tuition refunds if placement is unsuccessful. These services help mitigate the risk for students and demonstrate the bootcamp’s confidence in its training model.
Of course, not all bootcamps are created equal. In 2025, the bootcamp market has grown competitive, and quality varies widely. Some programs are run by reputable universities or are affiliated with major tech companies, offering industry-approved curricula and expert instructors. Others are new, independent ventures with inconsistent teaching quality or limited industry recognition. Prospective students must evaluate factors like instructor experience, curriculum structure, graduate success rates, and alumni testimonials. Programs that include a capstone project or internship component are often better suited to translate learning into tangible job outcomes.
Cybersecurity bootcamps in 2025 often offer multiple tracks tailored to different career goals. For example, a red team track might focus on offensive security skills such as ethical hacking, penetration testing, and social engineering. A blue team track would focus on defensive skills like monitoring, threat intelligence, and incident response. Some programs also offer governance and compliance tracks for those interested in policy, regulation, and risk management. This specialization allows students to align their training with their desired roles, whether they aim to become SOC analysts, security engineers, auditors, or even security architects.
With the rise of AI and automation, bootcamps are also beginning to integrate next-generation topics into their curricula. Students might now learn how machine learning is used in anomaly detection or explore the security implications of AI-generated content. Cloud security, DevSecOps, zero trust architecture, and secure software development lifecycles are also frequently covered, reflecting the modern enterprise’s technology stack. Understanding these evolving trends gives students a competitive edge, especially in organizations undergoing digital transformation.
Many boot camps also include certification exam preparation. These certifications remain essential for gaining credibility and meeting industry standards. Programs may align closely with certifications such as the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) for advanced learners, or CompTIA Security+ for entry-level roles. Others integrate preparation for niche certifications like the Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) or Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP), particularly for roles in cloud or penetration testing. A curriculum mapped to these credentials ensures that students not only gain practical knowledge but also become credentialed professionals.
Ultimately, what distinguishes a strong bootcamp in 2025 is a combination of up-to-date content, engaging pedagogy, career support, and clear alignment with workforce demands. The best bootcamps maintain industry advisory boards, update course content regularly, and hire instructors who are active professionals. They also cultivate employer partnerships to help funnel graduates into jobs. In a fast-moving field like cybersecurity, relevance and agility matter just as much as foundational knowledge.
Cybersecurity bootcamps are no longer fringe alternatives. They are now considered credible, focused, and results-driven avenues into the profession. Whether for a recent graduate unsure of their next step, a mid-career professional seeking a pivot, or a technologist looking to specialize, these programs offer a direct, efficient path into one of the most critical fields of the digital age. As the cyber threat landscape becomes more complex, bootcamps are uniquely positioned to meet the moment—bridging the skills gap with speed, precision, and impact.
Choosing the right cybersecurity bootcamp in 2025 involves more than scanning rankings or picking the first program with a glossy website. The industry has matured, but not all boot camps offer the same level of depth, specialization, or job readiness. With tuition often ranging from a few thousand dollars to over $20,000, prospective students must evaluate a bootcamp not only on cost but on its educational and career outcomes. Several core features separate strong programs from generic or underwhelming ones. These features are especially important in a rapidly evolving domain like cybersecurity, where currency, credibility, and context are essential.
A critical factor is curriculum relevance. An effective cybersecurity bootcamp should align its content with the latest tools, threats, and regulatory frameworks. Outdated information can leave graduates unprepared for the realities of the field. The curriculum should cover a well-rounded suite of topics that includes networking fundamentals, operating system security (Windows and Linux), identity and access management, encryption basics, vulnerability assessments, penetration testing, incident response, and threat intelligence. As cybersecurity increasingly intersects with areas like cloud infrastructure, IoT, and DevSecOps, the best bootcamps integrate training in these areas to prepare students for the complexity of modern IT environments.
Bootcamps should also teach students how to use industry-standard tools. Hands-on familiarity with platforms like Wireshark, Metasploit, Nessus, Burp Suite, Splunk, and Kali Linux is often more important than theoretical understanding. Some programs go further, providing cloud labs or virtualized environments for students to simulate attacks, conduct penetration tests, and explore post-exploitation techniques in real time. These practical exercises mirror the kind of work cybersecurity professionals perform and help bridge the gap between abstract knowledge and job-ready competence.
Instructor quality is another key metric. In 2025, the best bootcamps prioritize hiring instructors who are active practitioners in the cybersecurity field. These professionals bring current experience, real-world examples, and a practical understanding of how concepts apply in actual work settings. An ideal instructor is someone who not only knows the material but also has experience training others, whether through corporate workshops, consulting, or classroom settings. Some boot camps also bring in guest lecturers or offer access to cybersecurity mentors, expanding student exposure to different subfields and career pathways.
Equally important is how the bootcamp structures its learning experience. Top-tier programs break down complex subjects into digestible segments and use a variety of pedagogical techniques, such as live instruction, pre-recorded content, hands-on labs, and group projects. Bootcamps that rely solely on video lectures without real-time interaction or feedback tend to fall short in preparing students for dynamic work environments. Programs that incorporate team-based exercises or capstone projects simulate real-world collaboration and incident handling, reinforcing soft skills like communication, problem-solving, and teamwork alongside technical learning.
Another essential feature is certification alignment. Reputable bootcamps in 2025 often align their curricula with industry-recognized certifications. These include entry-level options like CompTIA Security+, Network+, or CySA+, as well as more advanced paths like Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), OSCP, or CISSP. Programs that offer integrated test preparation, voucher discounts, or even proctored exam access help students complete their training with recognized credentials. While certifications are not a guarantee of job placement, they are a crucial differentiator on resumes, especially for those transitioning from unrelated careers.
Career support has become a major differentiator among bootcamps. With more students entering the field without prior tech backgrounds, career coaching is not just a bonus—it’s a necessity. Strong programs offer resume and LinkedIn profile workshops, mock interviews, networking events, job placement pipelines, and alumni mentorship. Some bootcamps partner with hiring organizations or maintain job boards for graduates. A few even offer job placement guarantees, promising a refund or continued career support if a job is not secured within a set timeframe. While guarantees should be evaluated cautiously, they indicate confidence in the program’s ability to deliver career outcomes.
Student support structures also make a significant difference, especially for remote or asynchronous learners. High-quality programs offer access to teaching assistants, peer forums, or weekly office hours. This layer of interaction is crucial when tackling difficult subjects like binary exploitation, memory analysis, or scripting automation. Without adequate support, students may become discouraged or fall behind. Programs that foster a sense of community—through cohort-based learning, Slack channels, or alumni events—often see better engagement and retention.
Transparency is another marker of a high-quality bootcamp. Reputable programs publish detailed course outlines, instructor bios, success stories, and job placement statistics. If a bootcamp does not clearly communicate what students will learn, who will teach them, or how graduates fare, it may be a red flag. Some of the best programs are affiliated with universities or large tech organizations and are subject to third-party audits or quality controls. Even independent bootcamps can establish credibility by being open about outcomes, posting real reviews, and maintaining long-term relationships with employers.
One of the newer trends in 2025 is the availability of specialized tracks. Rather than offering a single generic cybersecurity path, some boot camps provide tailored pathways for different roles: SOC analyst, penetration tester, security engineer, cloud security specialist, or GRC (governance, risk, and compliance) professional. These tracks help students focus their efforts and avoid being overwhelmed by the sheer breadth of the cybersecurity field. Programs may even offer electives or allow students to switch tracks mid-course if they discover a new area of interest.
Flexibility in delivery format is especially important as more learners seek to balance bootcamp attendance with full-time jobs or family obligations. Leading programs offer both full-time immersive formats and part-time evening or weekend options. Others provide entirely self-paced curricula but support it with live Q&A sessions and check-ins. Hybrid formats, which combine remote lectures with periodic in-person labs, appeal to students seeking the best of both worlds. What matters most is that the format suits the learner’s schedule and preferred learning style.
Finally, affordability and financing options cannot be overlooked. While the average cybersecurity bootcamp may cost $10,000 to $15,000, many offer flexible payment plans, scholarships, and income share agreements (ISAs). ISAs allow students to defer payment until they land a job above a certain salary threshold. Some bootcamps also collaborate with government workforce development initiatives or veterans’ benefits programs. It’s important for students to understand the financial terms, including any interest rates, repayment caps, or obligations under the ISA contract.
Selecting a cybersecurity bootcamp is a significant investment in time, money, and effort. In 2025, prospective students have more options than ever—but also more noise to sift through. The best bootcamps are those that combine rigorous, current instruction with strong instructional support, real-world practice, and a clear path to employment. They understand that cybersecurity is not just about memorizing definitions or running tools—it’s about developing critical thinking, adapting to threats, and collaborating across teams. For students willing to do the research and choose carefully, the right bootcamp can serve as a transformative gateway into one of the most in-demand fields of the digital era.
With dozens of programs available worldwide, comparing cybersecurity boot camps in 2025 requires an understanding of both technical depth and learner outcomes. Reputation, curriculum, delivery model, and career support vary widely, and no single program fits everyone. However, several bootcamps have consistently stood out for their rigorous content, hands-on labs, mentorship, and alignment with industry trends. Evaluating them side by side can help prospective students identify which aligns best with their goals, whether they aim to become SOC analysts, ethical hackers, or compliance officers. This section breaks down several of the top contenders based on multiple dimensions to help clarify the landscape.
One of the most widely recognized bootcamps in 2025 is the SANS Cyber Immersion Academy. Known for its deep alignment with government and defense organizations, SANS provides access to world-class instructors, proprietary GIAC certifications, and rigorous hands-on labs. The curriculum is structured around specific job roles such as cyber defender, penetration tester, and incident handler. Students have access to NetWars simulation environments, where they apply skills in real-time scenarios. Though expensive—tuition often exceeds $18,000—the program is ideal for those seeking federal or defense-sector employment. The academy’s strong ties to employers mean graduates often move directly into roles at contractors, agencies, or cybersecurity firms.
For those seeking an intensive experience with job placement support, the Fullstack Academy Cybersecurity Bootcamp offers a well-rounded and immersive curriculum that can be completed in about 13 to 26 weeks depending on pace. The program emphasizes both theory and application, with extensive lab work and exposure to tools like Wireshark, Metasploit, and Splunk. It also covers scripting in Python and Bash, allowing students to automate basic security tasks. Fullstack’s collaboration with universities and its focus on beginner-friendly instruction make it a good option for career changers. Graduates benefit from career coaching and interview prep, and many land roles in SOCs, IT security departments, and managed services providers.
Another popular option is the Flatiron School Cybersecurity Analytics Program, which leans into the blue-team (defensive) side of cybersecurity. The curriculum is designed to train security analysts and threat hunters, with a focus on SIEM technologies, intrusion detection systems, and incident response. Students complete real-world projects and receive mentorship from industry professionals. Flatiron also emphasizes soft skills development, such as incident report writing and threat briefings. While it lacks the offensive (red-team) focus some learners seek, it’s one of the most polished programs in terms of career services, offering mock interviews, resume optimization, and employer matching for six months post-graduation.
For students seeking a more academic feel with strong university branding, UC Berkeley’s Cybersecurity Boot Camp—offered in partnership with Trilogy Education—provides a structured, part-time program designed for working professionals. It covers networking, cryptography, ethical hacking, and risk management over 24 weeks. While not as intensive as some full-time bootcamps, the program offers strong community support, instructor feedback, and access to a wide network of peers. Graduates benefit from UC Berkeley’s brand recognition, which can be useful when applying to larger corporate cybersecurity departments or tech firms.
A newer but rising bootcamp in 2025 is Springboard’s Cybersecurity Career Track, which combines asynchronous learning with one-on-one mentorship. The curriculum is based on the NIST NICE framework and includes labs on topics like malware analysis, risk assessment, and application security. It is unique in offering a job guarantee—students receive a full tuition refund if they do not secure employment within six months of graduation, provided they meet all requirements. This track appeals to self-directed learners who want flexibility but still value structured support and career services.
For those focused on the offensive side of cybersecurity, Offensive Security’s PEN-200 course—often known for the OSCP certification—has grown in stature and is increasingly considered a bootcamp-equivalent. While not marketed as a bootcamp per se, the PEN-200 curriculum is more rigorous than most programs and includes dozens of exploit development labs, privilege escalation scenarios, and hands-on testing environments. It’s designed for learners with strong technical backgrounds, as the program assumes comfort with Linux, TCP/IP, and scripting. Graduates who earn OSCP certification are frequently hired into penetration testing and red-team roles, especially at consulting firms and security vendors.
Another advanced program is Hack The Box Academy, which offers a modular learning environment focused on real-world hacking skills. While not a bootcamp in the traditional cohort-based sense, it allows learners to build custom paths from beginner to expert, focusing on topics like active directory exploitation, cloud penetration testing, and web application hacking. Its virtual labs are among the best in the industry, offering immersive, challenge-based exercises modeled after real vulnerabilities. The academy is ideal for learners seeking to sharpen their skills in offensive security or prepare for certifications like OSCP or OSEP.
In contrast, the Code Fellows Cybersecurity Bootcamp provides a tiered approach to skill development, starting with IT fundamentals and moving up to more complex security topics. It’s well suited for those without prior experience and includes modules on system administration, network troubleshooting, security auditing, and incident response. Code Fellows also integrates career coaching and job placement assistance, making it a solid option for career changers looking for an accessible entry point into cybersecurity. Its flexible format allows students to progress through different skill levels at their own pace.
A more corporate-focused option is the Evolve Security Academy, which offers a remote, cohort-based experience centered on a comprehensive cybersecurity bootcamp. The curriculum includes a live virtual SOC experience, where students monitor network traffic, investigate alerts, and write real-time reports. Evolve also prepares students for the eJPT (Junior Penetration Tester) certification and incorporates red and blue team skills. It’s a strong option for those who want an experience that closely mimics an actual security operations environment. The academy’s emphasis on communication skills and report writing is another differentiator.
Finally, CyberNow Labs stands out for its mentorship and internship-like model. Students train as entry-level SOC analysts and work in a simulated environment where they respond to real-world alerts and tickets using tools like Splunk, Tenable, and CrowdStrike. It’s one of the few bootcamps that offer post-training internship simulations and team-based learning, which can be helpful for building resumes and interview stories. CyberNow Labs is ideal for those focused specifically on entry-level analyst roles, especially in industries like healthcare, finance, or education.
These boot camps each bring different strengths depending on your background, career goals, and preferred learning style. SANS and Offensive Security are better for experienced learners targeting high-impact or specialized roles. Springboard and CyberNow Labs are excellent for those needing job guarantees and mentorship. Fullstack and Flatiron offer the strongest all-around structure for new entrants, while Hack The Box and Evolve provide in-depth exposure to real-world scenarios. No program is perfect for everyone, but most top bootcamps are transparent about their content and outcomes, allowing you to align your decision with your desired trajectory in
Deciding which cybersecurity bootcamp to attend in 2025 requires more than simply reviewing rankings or choosing the most affordable program. The key to making the right choice lies in aligning your personal goals, current skill level, preferred learning environment, and professional aspirations with what each bootcamp offers. The rapid expansion of cybersecurity as a discipline has created various career paths—from security analyst and SOC engineer to penetration tester and governance specialist—each demanding specific skills, certifications, and experience. Choosing a bootcamp that maps clearly to your intended role can significantly increase your chances of success both in training and on the job market.
The first factor to consider is your existing experience level. If you are entirely new to technology or have no prior background in networking or programming, bootcamps like Code Fellows or Flatiron School provide the foundational IT skills necessary before diving deep into cybersecurity. These programs often start with introductory content like TCP/IP, system administration, and scripting, and then gradually progress toward security-specific skills. On the other hand, if you already work in IT or have some familiarity with network protocols and Linux environments, you may benefit more from mid-tier or advanced boot camps like Evolve Security, Fullstack Academy, or Springboard, which move faster and assume some prior technical literacy.
Next, define what cybersecurity domain you’re aiming for. Defensive roles like security operations center analyst, threat hunter, or security compliance analyst require strong skills in monitoring, reporting, and incident response. Bootcamps such as CyberNow Labs and UC Berkeley’s Cybersecurity Boot Camp specialize in these blue-team responsibilities, offering simulations that replicate the daily workflow of entry-level defenders. These programs tend to emphasize soft skills, such as report writing and communication, alongside technical lab work with SIEM platforms and ticketing systems.
If your goal is to become a penetration tester, vulnerability assessor, or red-team operator, look toward programs with a heavier focus on offensive cybersecurity. Offensive Security’s PEN-200 (OSCP), Hack The Box Academy, and the red team paths offered by SANS are examples of such advanced training. These boot camps lean more into topics like exploit development, buffer overflows, post-exploitation techniques, and privilege escalation. While they offer less direct career coaching, they compensate with deep technical rigor and strong industry recognition. These programs are generally best for individuals with a strong grasp of systems and an aptitude for creative problem-solving in complex technical environments.
Consider the delivery format and time commitment as well. Full-time, immersive bootcamps can take 12 to 24 weeks and demand 30 to 60 hours of engagement per week. These are best for people who can commit entirely to study—often career switchers or recent graduates. Flatiron School and Fullstack Academy offer this immersive model. Part-time or asynchronous programs, like those from Springboard and Trilogy Education (e.g., UC Berkeley), offer more flexibility, which is ideal for professionals working full-time or managing other commitments. However, part-time options often require more self-discipline and time management, especially in programs that are mentor-guided rather than instructor-led.
Mentorship and community support also play a critical role in student success. Programs like Springboard and CyberNow Labs offer structured mentorship from industry professionals, which helps with both technical clarification and professional networking. This feature is especially useful for individuals who are self-motivated but value accountability and career guidance. Conversely, programs like Hack The Box or Offensive Security rely more on self-paced content, peer forums, and individual problem-solving. These are best for independent learners comfortable navigating unstructured environments and troubleshooting on their own.
Another key factor is certification alignment. Certifications remain highly valuable in cybersecurity hiring, particularly for entry-level and government-related roles. Some bootcamps offer embedded certifications as part of the curriculum—SANS with GIAC, Offensive Security with OSCP, Evolve Security with eJPT, and Springboard with CompTIA Security+ preparation. Choosing a bootcamp that prepares you for or includes industry-recognized credentials increases your credibility with employers and strengthens your resume. Additionally, certifications often become prerequisites for interviews in fields like federal cybersecurity, consulting, or incident response.
Cost and financing options matter as well. Cybersecurity bootcamps range from around $4,000 for self-paced programs to over $20,000 for instructor-led academies like SANS. Some offer income share agreements (ISAs), loan partnerships, scholarships, or employer reimbursement plans. When considering bootcamp tuition, factor in the return on investment—does the program provide career services, job guarantees, internships, or employer networks? Springboard, for example, offers a job guarantee, while CyberNow Labs simulates an internship experience. These features can offset cost by accelerating your job placement or improving the quality of your first cybersecurity role.
You should also evaluate career support and job outcomes. Top-tier bootcamps often have robust career coaching, resume assistance, mock interviews, and employer partnerships. Fullstack Academy, Flatiron School, and Evolve Security provide students with extensive career readiness training. Others, like SANS and Offensive Security, rely more on the prestige of their credentials and the strength of their alumni networks. Programs with placement guarantees or transparent job statistics are often more accountable and results-driven. Consider asking alumni or attending info sessions to better understand a program’s career pipeline.
Finally, think about long-term career development. A bootcamp should not only prepare you for your first role but also build habits, skills, and mindsets for continued growth. Some programs, like Hack The Box and Code Fellows, allow graduates to continue learning post-bootcamp with advanced content or specialty modules. Others, like SANS, provide lifelong access to conferences, labs, and continuing education. Programs that encourage certifications, portfolio building, and lab practice tend to produce more adaptive professionals ready for rapid changes in the cybersecurity landscape.
In the end, the best cybersecurity bootcamp for you will not be the most expensive or most famous—it will be the one that meets you where you are and takes you where you want to go. Whether you’re starting from scratch or transitioning from another technical field, today’s bootcamps offer more paths than ever before. Your role is to define your goals clearly, assess your learning style honestly, and commit to the intensive work required to build a cybersecurity career. When chosen wisely, a bootcamp can be a transformative stepping stone that opens the door to one of the most dynamic, rewarding, and future-proof industries in the world.
The cybersecurity field continues to grow at an unprecedented pace, offering opportunities across industries for those equipped with the right skills and mindset. As threats evolve and organizations double down on security measures, the demand for job-ready professionals has created a space where intensive boot camps can act as an effective launchpad into the industry. However, not all bootcamps are created equal, and your success will largely depend on choosing one that fits your current abilities, professional goals, and learning preferences.
Cybersecurity bootcamps in 2025 are more specialized, accessible, and diverse than ever before. From self-paced red team training to structured full-time programs with job guarantees, the spectrum of available options reflects the complexity and maturity of the field itself. The decision to enroll in a cybersecurity bootcamp should not be rushed or based purely on branding—it should be guided by careful research, honest self-assessment, and a clear understanding of what the bootcamp will help you become.
If you are completely new to technology, consider programs that start with fundamentals and emphasize support and guided instruction. If you have prior IT experience or are looking to deepen your skills in specific domains like penetration testing, digital forensics, or cloud security, focus on bootcamps that challenge you technically and align with certification goals. Evaluate mentorship, project work, lab access, career coaching, and alumni success stories as part of your selection criteria.
Cybersecurity is not just about tools and techniques; it’s about mindset, adaptability, and continuous learning. A quality bootcamp should do more than teach you how to use Wireshark or detect phishing emails—it should instill the curiosity, discipline, and ethical awareness required to thrive in an adversarial digital landscape. Whether your goal is to work in a security operations center, become a penetration tester, or eventually move into leadership, a bootcamp can provide the momentum to make that vision real.
Ultimately, the best bootcamp is the one that prepares you not just for your first job, but for a meaningful and lasting career. By choosing thoughtfully and committing fully, you can position yourself for success in a field where skilled professionals are not just in demand, but essential.
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