It's that time of year again, start planning for Defcon. For those of you that maybe haven't been before here is a little guide to help you plan.
When is Defcon: Defcon attendance has been growing every year, and for the first time it will be hosted at two hotels, Paris and Bally's. Its normally held towards the end of July or beginning of August. It's a good idea to get there a day early to buy SWAG and get your badge because it gets super busy the day of.
How Much is Defcon: The registration fee has gone up a little over the last few years, but they will post the fee as we get closer to the Con. Oh ya, like most everything at Defcon - don't use the ATM. Cash only.
- Registration: $230
- Hotel: Defcon room rates differ depending when you book, but Defcon usually negotiates a good price.
Where to Stay: Staying at the hosting hotel is a must. It's nice to just head up to your room between talks, and attending the late night festivities are a breeze since you only have stumble to the elevators. Reserve your rooms early for Defcon, as some of us experienced the hotels sells out quick.
Added bonus; If you stay at hosting hotels Defcon will stream the talks and schedules to the hotel rooms. This is not guaranteed this year since we will be in a new venue.
What to Bring: A few essentials I bring to Vegas.
- Snacks because eating at the CON can get kinda pricy, plus a lot people save the money for drinking.
- Buy a cheap throw away cooler for refreshments and ICE
- A laptop "AT YOUR OWN RISK" If you bring your laptop do not bring it to the Con, leave it in your room and even then disable your wifi, bluetooth, and do not use the hotel internet. Defcon's network, including the hotels, have been deemed the most hostile network in the world. Even the cellular network is risky and it usually sucks anyway. That being said, if you have a fresh wiped laptop and you want to partake in the festivities bring it just dont use it for anything other then hacking, and reformat when you get home.
- Cell Phone, if you have an old school flip phone bring it. If you bring your smart phone make sure to turn off the radios, i.e. wifi, bluetooth, etc. Nothing is safe.
- Asprin for obvious reasons
- Your finest hacker tees, there kinda a big thing, and a comfortable pair of shoe. You will be standing in some lines, imagine a disneyland for hackers...
Everyone interested in technology should go at least once.
Share On
