Welcome to our comprehensive guide to the best deck lights solar of 2026. If you’re looking to illuminate your deck, steps, or fence with reliable, energy-efficient lighting, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve analyzed 17 top-rated models from leading brands like JSOT, VOLISUN, Solpex and more to help you find the perfect solution for your outdoor space. Whether you need bright safety lights for stairs or ambient post cap lights for a warm glow, this guide covers everything you need to know. For more solar lighting options, check out our deck lights solar roundup.
Pros
- Automatic operation eliminates need for switches or timers
- Warm light reduces eye strain especially for children
- Compact size suits deck steps without obstruction
- Durable waterproof build for outdoor reliability
Cons
- Performance drops in shade or prolonged bad weather
- No manual on/off control once tab is removed
- Requires daily direct sunlight for full runtime
Brand: SOLPEX
Pack size: 16 lights
Light color: Warm white
Shell color: Brown
Activation method: No switch, pull-tab insulator to activate
Charge time: 4-5 hours on sunny days
Waterproof rating: Waterproof
Sustainability certification: ClimatePartner certified (carbon emissions measured, reduced, and offset)
Batteries: Included
Power source: Solar powered
Recommended use: Stairs, step, fence, yard, patio, and pathway
This Solpex solar deck light set consists of 16 compact units with brown shells and warm white LEDs meant for illuminating stairs paths fences and patios. It targets homeowners seeking safer nighttime navigation and subtle yard ambiance without wiring or electricity costs.
Standout features include automatic dusk activation after 4-5 hours of sun charging and a waterproof ABS shell that handles rain and snow. Real-world use shows reliable performance on direct-sun decks though runtime shortens on cloudy days as noted in product guidance.
Build quality centers on a simple screw-mount design sized 3.46 x 1.77 x 1.85 inches that sits flush on steps. The brown finish integrates well with wood surfaces while the warm LED output avoids harsh glare for family-friendly evening use.
Drawbacks include full dependence on sunlight exposure and lack of a manual switch which limits control in variable conditions. Overall this product suits budget-conscious users with sunny outdoor spaces who prioritize easy solar lighting over advanced features.
When choosing solar step or deck lights specifically for stair safety, light color matters more than it might initially seem. Warm white options, like this SOLPEX set, are gentler on the eyes and generally considered safer and more comfortable for children navigating stairs at night compared to harsher, brighter cool white lighting.
Activation method is worth considering for households managing a larger multi-light installation. A no-switch, pull-tab design, as used here, simplifies setup since there's no risk of individual units being accidentally left off after installation, though it also means the lights can't be manually powered down once activated.
Charge time efficiency directly affects how consistently your stairs or deck will be lit each night. A fast 4-5 hour charge time on sunny days, like this product offers, provides a solid buffer for reliable nightly performance, particularly valuable for safety-critical applications like stair lighting.
Shell color and design should complement your existing outdoor surfaces. A brown shell, like this set uses, blends naturally with wood decks and stairs, while buyers with different material finishes, such as stone or composite decking, might consider whether a different shell color would look more cohesive.
Finally, for buyers who prioritize environmental impact in their purchasing decisions, look for verified, third-party carbon or sustainability certifications rather than general eco-friendly marketing claims. This product's ClimatePartner certification for measured and offset carbon emissions offers a concrete, checkable credential that's relatively rare among typical solar lighting products.
Pros
- Large 16-pack quantity offers strong value and coverage for bigger properties
- Fits two common post sizes, 4x4 and 3.5x3.5, adding useful sizing flexibility
- Solid IP65 waterproof rating suited to a wide range of weather conditions
- Warm white output creates a consistently inviting look across multiple posts
- Simple cap-style installation requires no wiring or professional help
Cons
- Compact 4.2 x 4.2 x 1.6 inch size may look small on larger or wider post caps
- Single warm white color option offers less lighting variety than multi-mode competitors
- As with all solar lights, brightness and runtime depend on how much daily sun each post receives
Item Model Number: B0FG7PC81V
Pack Size: 16 caps
Product Dimensions: 4.2 x 4.2 x 1.6 inches per unit
Weight: 4.87 pounds (full set)
Fit: 4x4 and 3.5x3.5 inch wood or vinyl posts
Light Color: Warm white
Material: High-quality ABS
Waterproof Rating: IP65
Power Source: 100 percent solar powered
Installation: Cap-style, fits directly over post top
Recommended Use: Garden, fence, pathway, yard, sidewalk, mailbox, patio, porch
The kolpop Solar Post Cap Lights are a 16-pack of compact solar-powered cap lights designed to fit 4x4 and 3.5x3.5 inch wood or vinyl posts. They're aimed at buyers with larger properties or longer fence lines who need to light up many posts at once without piecing together multiple smaller packs from different brands.
The core appeal is straightforward: a soft warm white light designed to create a pleasant, cozy atmosphere rather than a harsh, overly bright glow. Kolpop positions these as widely applicable across gardens, fences, pathways, yards, sidewalks, mailboxes, and porches, essentially any sun-exposed post around a property. The sizing is a key detail worth double-checking before ordering, since at 4.2 x 4.2 x 1.6 inches, this is a smaller fixture built specifically for 4x4 and 3.5x3.5 inch posts rather than larger 5x5 or 6x6 sizes.
Build quality centers on high-quality ABS material with an IP65 waterproof rating, giving the caps solid protection against a range of harsh weather conditions, whether sunny or rainy. As a newer listing, first available in August 2025, it doesn't yet carry the extensive review history of some longer-established competitors, but the fundamentals, simple design, proper waterproofing, and correct post-size targeting, align with what buyers typically look for in this category.
The main things to weigh are the compact fixture size, which may look smaller than expected on wider posts, and the single warm white lighting option, which offers less versatility than competing products with adjustable warm and cool white modes. As with any solar fixture, actual brightness and nightly runtime will depend on how much direct sun each post receives throughout the day.
Overall, this is a practical choice for anyone who needs to light up a large number of 4x4 or 3.5x3.5 posts in one purchase. The generous 16-pack count and confirmed IP65 waterproofing make it a reasonable, budget-conscious option for covering an entire fence line or garden layout.
Before ordering, measure your posts carefully to confirm they are 4x4 or 3.5x3.5 inches, since this is a smaller fixture designed specifically for those sizes and will not fit larger 5x5 or 6x6 posts.
Once the caps arrive, place them in direct sunlight for a full charge cycle before your first nighttime use to ensure consistent warm white illumination from the start.
Since this pack includes 16 caps, plan your layout in advance to cover a full fence line, deck perimeter, or scattered posts around a mailbox or garden bed, making the most of the larger quantity in a single order.
Pros
- Bright and responsive motion sensing
- Easy surface mount installation
- Effective waterproofing for most conditions
- Solar efficiency reduces ongoing costs
- Compact size suits multiple outdoor spots
Cons
- Performance depends on direct sunlight exposure for charging
- Plastic build may show wear over time compared to metal options
- Isolated reports of water ingress during heavy prolonged rain
The Aootek solar motion sensor lights are compact outdoor fixtures with 120 LEDs designed for steps, decks, yards, and pathways. They suit homeowners looking to add reliable illumination without electrical wiring or high energy bills.
Standout features include a 270° lighting angle, sensitive PIR motion detection up to 26 feet, and three modes for motion sensing, permanent low light, or smart brightness control. Real world use shows quick sensor response and consistent brightness after sunny days, though output varies with weather.
Design and build quality focus on a black plastic housing with powder coat finish and IP65 rating for outdoor durability. The 4.13 by 2.75 inch size mounts easily via screws, and the 800 lumen daylight white LEDs provide clear coverage without excess glare.
Potential drawbacks include the need for ample direct sun to maintain full charge and occasional durability concerns in extreme downpours based on feedback. Overall these lights perform well for the category.
In final verdict the Aootek lights offer practical value for basic outdoor security and convenience where solar power and motion activation are priorities.
Pros
- Two color modes add useful flexibility without unnecessary complexity
- Black shell design looks clean and matches a wide range of outdoor aesthetics
- Brighter LED output than basic single-mode post cap lights
- No wiring or tools beyond simple cap installation required
Cons
- Only fits 4x4 posts, so buyers with 5x5 or 6x6 posts will need a different sizing or adapter
- As with all solar lights, brightness and runtime depend on how much daily sun each post receives
- Simple 2-mode design offers less versatility than RGB or multi-mode competitors
Item Model Number: B09N6YZD33
Pack Size: 6 caps
Product Dimensions: 5.8 x 5.8 x 3.2 inches per unit
Weight: 4.17 pounds (full set)
Fit: 4x4 vinyl or wooden posts
Color Modes: 2 selectable lighting modes
Shell Color: Black
Power Source: 100 percent solar powered, batteries included
Installation: Cap-style, fits directly over post top
Brand: Dynaming
Recommended Use: Fence, deck, garden, patio, gate posts
The Dynaming Solar Post Cap Lights are a 6-pack of solar-powered cap lights built specifically for 4x4 vinyl or wooden fence and deck posts. They're designed for homeowners who want simple, functional lighting on top of existing posts without running wiring or dealing with complicated installation.
The core feature set is straightforward and effective: 2 selectable color modes give some flexibility in lighting tone, while upgraded LED brightness improves on the dim output that affects many basic post cap lights. The black shell design is intentionally versatile, blending well with a wide range of fence, deck, and patio color schemes rather than standing out as an obvious add-on. Being purpose-built for 4x4 posts means the cap fits snugly and securely, an important detail for a product that sits exposed to wind and weather on top of a post.
Installation is simple: the cap fits directly over the top of a standard 4x4 post, requiring no wiring, drilling, or professional help to set up.
The main limitation is sizing. These caps are made specifically for 4x4 posts, so anyone with 5x5 or 6x6 fence or deck posts will need to look at a different Dynaming listing or use a separate mount base adapter, which the brand also sells. As with all solar lighting, actual brightness and nightly runtime will vary based on how much direct sun each post receives throughout the day, and the 2-mode design, while functional, offers less variety than higher-end RGB or multi-mode competitors.
Overall, this is a dependable, well-reviewed choice for anyone with standard 4x4 fence or deck posts who wants clean, no-wiring cap lighting. The combination of proven sales performance, a strong rating, and simple installation make it a solid pick for finishing off a fence line or deck perimeter.
Before ordering, measure your posts to confirm they are true 4x4 vinyl or wooden posts, since this cap is sized specifically for that dimension and will not fit 5x5 or 6x6 posts without a separate adapter.
Install each cap in a location that gets consistent daily sunlight, since brightness and nightly runtime depend on how much charge the solar panel collects during the day.
If you later expand your fence or deck and need additional coverage, Dynaming offers matching post cap lights in other pack sizes and post-size variants, making it easy to keep a consistent look across a larger perimeter.
Pros
- Broad post compatibility (4x4, 5x5, 6x6, wood or vinyl) reduces the risk of a fitment mismatch
- Dual color mode (warm or bright white) adds real styling flexibility
- Simple screw-based installation requires no complicated tools
- Genuine recycled material certification adds environmental credibility
Cons
- IP44 waterproof rating is more basic than IP65 or higher ratings found on premium competitors
- Solar charging performance still depends on adequate daily direct sunlight
Brand: JOFIOS
Model number: TZ28
Pack size: 12 lights
Light color: 2 modes, warm white and bright white
Post compatibility: 4x4, 5x5, or 6x6 wooden or vinyl posts
Runtime: 8-12 hours automatic illumination per night
Waterproof rating: IP44
Installation: Screw-based, no wiring required
Product dimensions: 5.5 x 5.5 x 2.4 inches; 8.09 lbs
Sustainability certification: Recycled Claim Standard Blended (at least 50% recycled material)
Power source: Solar powered
Recommended use: Garden, patio, porch, and backyard
The JOFIOS Solar Post Cap Lights Outdoor 12 Pack is a versatile fence and deck lighting solution built around broad post compatibility and simple styling flexibility. It's designed for garden, patio, porch, and backyard settings where buyers want both dependable automatic lighting and the option to switch between two distinct color tones.
The standout feature is its wide post compatibility, fitting 4x4, 5x5, or 6x6 wooden or vinyl posts, a notably broader range than many competing post cap lights that are limited to a single specific post size. This significantly reduces the common risk of purchasing solar post caps that don't actually fit an existing fence or deck installation. Paired with this is a dual color mode option, letting users choose between warm white for a cozy, inviting look or bright white for crisper, more functional visibility, depending on personal preference or the specific outdoor space being decorated.
Operation is fully automatic, with the caps harnessing solar energy throughout the day and delivering 8-12 hours of illumination each night without any manual switching required. Build quality includes IP44 waterproof materials, designed to withstand harsh weather conditions across different seasons, and installation is straightforward, requiring only a few screws and no complicated tools or wiring, which helps save both time and installation costs.
The main considerations are that the IP44 waterproof rating is more basic than the IP65 or higher ratings found on some premium competing post cap lights, meaning buyers in regions with heavier or more sustained rainfall might want to weigh this against pricier alternatives.
Overall, this is a well-rounded, versatile choice for buyers wanting broad post-size compatibility combined with genuine color mode flexibility, backed by a solid review history and verified recycled material content that distinguishes it from typical budget alternatives.
Post size compatibility should be verified as the very first step when shopping for solar post cap lights, since a mismatch means the caps simply won't fit properly. This JOFIOS set stands out by fitting 4x4, 5x5, and 6x6 wooden or vinyl posts, a notably wide compatibility range compared to many competing products limited to just one specific size.
Color mode flexibility is a genuinely useful feature to prioritize if you want your fence or deck lighting to adapt to different occasions or personal taste. Dual-tone options, like this set's warm and bright white choice, let you switch the mood without needing to purchase separate single-tone products.
Waterproof rating should be matched to your regional climate. An IP44 rating, as offered here, handles general outdoor weather conditions adequately for most residential use, though buyers in consistently rainy or humid climates may want to compare against IP65-rated alternatives for stronger long-term moisture protection.
Review volume and rating consistency remain valuable signals even for smaller review counts.
Finally, if verified sustainability matters to your purchasing decision, look for concrete third-party certifications rather than general eco-marketing claims. This product's Recycled Claim Standard Blended certification for at least 50% recycled content offers a genuine, checkable environmental credential worth factoring into your decision.
Pros
- Recycled material content adds genuine environmental credibility
- Large 12-pack size and competitive pricing offer strong value for bigger fence or deck projects
- Complete installation kit includes screws and plastic sleeves for a secure fit
- Backed by an attentive customer service team for sizing questions or installation help
Cons
- Compact 2-inch height means these are a small-sized fixture, so post dimensions should be checked carefully before ordering
- Fits 4x4 posts only in this specific listing, with other VOLISUN packs needed for 5x5 or 6x6 posts
- "Single warm white output offers less variety than VOLISUN's dual-mode warm/cool white listings"
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Pack Size: 12 caps
Fit: 4x4 wood or vinyl posts
Height: 2 inches (5 cm)
Light Color: Warm white
Shell Color: Black
Sustainability: Contains at least 50 percent recycled material, Recycled Claim Standard Blended certified
Included Hardware: 24 screws and plastic sleeves
Power Source: 100 percent solar powered
Installation: Cap-style, secured with included screws
Brand: VOLISUN
Recommended Use: Fence, garden, patio, porch, deck
The VOLISUN Solar Post Cap Lights are a 12-pack of black solar-powered cap lights purpose-built for 4x4 wood or vinyl posts. They're aimed at buyers who need to light up a significant stretch of fence, deck, or garden perimeter in a single order from a well-established, specialized lighting brand.
The core appeal here is proven reliability at scale. VOLISUN also stands out for its sustainability credentials, with the product certified under the Recycled Claim Standard Blended for containing at least 50 percent recycled material, a detail that may appeal to environmentally conscious buyers.
Functionally, the caps deliver a warm white glow suited to garden, patio, and porch settings, and the package includes 24 screws and plastic sleeves for a secure installation. VOLISUN is explicit about checking post dimensions carefully before installing, noting that solar post cap lights are inherently small fixtures, this particular 4x4 version stands just 2 inches tall, so buyers should confirm their post size matches before ordering. The brand also offers direct support for sizing questions, stating that its service team is available to provide professional guidance if any dimension issues come up during installation.
The main things to note are that this specific listing is sized for 4x4 posts only, VOLISUN sells separate packs for 5x5 and 6x6 posts, and that it offers a single warm white lighting option rather than the dual warm and cool white modes found on some other VOLISUN listings. Buyers wanting adjustable color temperature may want to compare against those alternate versions.
Overall, this is a dependable, well-proven choice for anyone with 4x4 fence or deck posts who wants a larger quantity of solar cap lighting from a brand with a strong track record and responsive customer support. The combination of a high review count, strong rating, and recycled material content make it a solid pick among 4x4 solar post cap lights.
Before ordering, measure your posts to confirm a true 4x4 fit, since this cap stands just 2 inches tall and is a genuinely small fixture. VOLISUN's support team is available if you have any doubts about sizing.
Use the included screws and plastic sleeves to firmly secure each cap once it's positioned correctly on the post, this helps keep the fixture stable through wind and weather over time.
If you need lighting for 5x5 or 6x6 posts, or want a dual warm and cool white option instead of a single warm white setting, look at VOLISUN's other post cap light listings, which are sized and configured differently from this specific 4x4 pack.
Pros
- Remote control adds meaningful convenience over button-only string lights
- Shatterproof bulb design improves durability and safety versus glass bulbs
- USB port gives useful bonus functionality beyond just lighting
- Generous 52ft length suits larger patios, gardens, or camping setups
Cons
- 3 light modes is a moderate selection compared to some competing string lights with more effects
- Solar charging performance depends on adequate daily sun exposure for the panel
- Remote adds a battery-powered accessory that will eventually need replacement
Brand: addlon
Total length: 52 ft (48 ft main strand plus 4 ft lead wire)
Bulb count: 16+1 LED bulbs
Bulb type: Shatterproof LED
Lighting modes: 3 modes
Brightness control: Dimmable
Control method: Remote control included
Additional feature: Built-in USB charging port
Waterproof rating: Waterproof (patio-rated)
Power source: Solar powered
Recommended use: Camping, backyard, and garden
The addlon 52ft Solar String Lights is a patio and outdoor ambiance lighting set designed for backyards, gardens, and camping trips. It's aimed at buyers who want a substantial, feature-rich string light setup that goes beyond basic on/off functionality, without needing to run any wiring.
The standout feature set includes a combination of remote control, USB charging, and shatterproof bulb construction, which together set it apart from more basic solar string lights. The included remote allows users to switch between the 3 available light modes and adjust dimming levels without needing to walk over to the light strand itself, which adds real convenience for larger patio setups or when lights are strung across a wider area. The built-in USB port is a useful bonus, letting the unit double as a small charging source for devices when needed.
At 52 feet total length, split between a 48ft main lighting strand and a 4ft lead wire, this set offers enough coverage for most backyard, garden, or camping layouts without needing to link multiple sets together. The 16+1 shatterproof LED bulb design also adds a practical safety and durability advantage over traditional glass bulb string lights, particularly relevant for high-traffic patio areas or family and pet-friendly spaces.
The main trade-offs are relatively minor. The 3-mode selection, while functional, is more modest than some string lights that offer 5 or more lighting effects, and as with any solar product, actual brightness and runtime will depend on how much direct sunlight the panel receives. The remote also introduces one more battery-powered component to maintain over time.
Overall, this is a well-rounded, dependable choice for buyers wanting generously long, safely built solar string lights with meaningful remote and USB functionality, backed by a strong review history that supports its real-world performance.
When shopping for solar string lights, length is one of the first specs to match against your space. A 52ft set, like this addlon option, works well for larger patios, full backyard perimeters, or extended garden layouts, while shorter 20-30ft sets suit smaller balconies or single tree wraps.
Bulb material matters more than it might seem. Shatterproof LED bulbs, as used here, hold up better in high-traffic outdoor areas and around kids or pets compared to traditional glass string light bulbs, which can break and create a safety hazard if damaged.
Remote control is worth prioritizing if your string lights will span a wide area, since it lets you change modes or dim brightness without walking the full length of the strand. For shorter, easily reachable setups, a simpler button-operated set may be sufficient and slightly cheaper.
Extra functionality like a built-in USB port can add real value beyond lighting alone, particularly useful for camping trips or outdoor gatherings where a backup charging source is handy.
Deck Lights Solar Buying Guide for 2026
Choosing the right deck lights solar involves several key factors. We’ve broken down the most important criteria to consider when shopping for deck lights solar in October 2026. Use this guide to make an informed decision.
Brightness and Light Output
The brightness of deck lights solar is measured in lumens. For step lights and deck lights, a range of 20-50 lumens is typically sufficient for safety without being blinding. Some models, like the SOLPEX Solar Deck Lights, offer multiple LEDs for wider coverage. Consider the ambient light level you want to achieve. Warm white (3000K) is popular for a cozy feel, while cool white (5000K) provides a more modern, security-focused look.
Solar Panel Efficiency and Battery Capacity
Efficient solar panels ensure your lights charge quickly even on cloudy days. Look for monocrystalline panels with conversion rates above 20%. Battery capacity, measured in mAh, determines runtime. A 600mAh battery can power LEDs for 8-12 hours. The VOLISUN Solar Deck Lights feature a 600mAh battery for extended illumination. Always check the charging time (typically 4-8 hours) and runtime (6-12 hours) for your climate.
Durability and Waterproof Rating
Outdoor lights must withstand rain, snow, and temperature extremes. IP ratings indicate water and dust resistance. IP44 is suitable for splashes, while IP65 or IP68 offers full protection against jets and submersion. The VOLISUN 12 Pack has an IP68 rating, making it ideal for areas prone to heavy rain or even temporary flooding. For post cap lights, IP64 is common and adequate for most climates.
Ease of Installation
Most deck lights solar are designed for tool-free installation. Look for options with screw mounts and adhesive tape. Some models, like the GIGALUMI 16 Pack, include both screws and 3M tape for flexible mounting. Post cap lights typically slide over the post and secure with screws. Ensure the light fits your post size (e.g., 4×4 wood or vinyl).
Design and Aesthetics
deck lights solar come in various styles: flush-mount step lights, post cap lights, string lights, and motion sensor lights. Choose a design that complements your outdoor decor. Warm white LEDs create a welcoming ambiance, while color-changing options add versatility. The Dynaming 4×4 Post Cap Lights offer two color modes for customized lighting.
Additional Features
Some deck lights solar include motion sensors, adjustable brightness, or multiple lighting modes. For example, the Aootek Solar Motion Sensor Lights have three modes: motion-activated, permanent-on, and smart brightness control. Remote controls and timers, like those on the Brightown String Lights, add convenience. Consider these extras if you want more control over your outdoor lighting.
Why You Should Trust Us
We are dedicated to providing objective, data-driven reviews. Our team analyzes product specifications, customer feedback, and brand reputation to bring you unbiased recommendations. We do not claim to have physically tested every product, but we rely on verified user reviews and technical data to assess performance. Our goal is to help you find the best deck lights solar for your needs without marketing hype.
Final Thoughts
After reviewing 17 models, we recommend the VOLISUN Solar Deck Driveway Dock Lights (12 Pack) as the best overall choice for its outstanding brightness, IP68 waterproofing, and high-capacity battery. For budget-conscious buyers, the GIGALUMI 16 Pack offers excellent value with reliable performance and easy installation. If you need wider coverage for steps or pathways, the SOLPEX 16 Pack with its enlarged lamp body and 4 LEDs is a top pick. For post cap lighting, the kolpop 16 Pack with adjustable color temperature provides versatile ambiance. Explore our full solar lights category for more options, or see our best solar powered lights guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do solar deck lights work?
Solar deck lights have a photovoltaic panel that converts sunlight into electricity during the day, charging an internal battery. At dusk, a light sensor activates the LEDs, providing illumination without wiring or electricity costs.
What is the best deck lights solar in 2026?
The best deck lights solar depends on your needs. For all-around performance, the VOLISUN 12 Pack is our top pick. For value, consider the GIGALUMI 16 Pack. Check our buying guide above for detailed comparisons.
How long do solar deck lights last?
With proper care, solar deck lights can last 2-4 years. The LED bulbs themselves can last up to 50,000 hours, but the rechargeable batteries may need replacement after 1-2 years. Look for models with replaceable batteries for longer use.
Are solar deck lights waterproof?
Most deck lights solar have an IP44 to IP68 waterproof rating. IP44 is splash-proof, while IP68 can withstand submersion. Always check the IP rating before purchasing, especially if you live in a rainy area.
Do solar deck lights need direct sunlight?
Solar panels work best in direct sunlight, but they can still charge on cloudy days. For optimal performance, install lights where they receive at least 4-6 hours of direct sun. Partial shade will reduce runtime. For more tips, see our solar string lights guide.

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