DEF CON 34

The world's largest and most notable hacker conference. DEF CON 34 brings together security researchers, penetration testers, hardware hackers, and privacy advocates for four days of talks, workshops, villages, contests, and community collaboration.

Instructor: The DEF CON Team

Term: Summer

Location: Las Vegas Convention Center (West Hall) & Caesars Forum Conference Center

Time: Thursday, August 6 – Sunday, August 9, 2026

Event Overview

DEF CON 34 continues the tradition of the world’s longest-running hacker conference, established in 1993. This event provides a unique environment for:

  • Technical knowledge sharing through peer-reviewed presentations
  • Hands-on learning in specialized villages (Hardware, Car Hacking, BioHacking, etc.)
  • Competitive challenges testing real-world security skills
  • Community building among security professionals and enthusiasts
  • Vendor interactions with cutting-edge security tools and services

Important Notes

  • Official Dates: August 6–9, 2026 (based on DEF CON’s historical Thursday-Sunday scheduling pattern; subject to official confirmation at defcon.org)
  • Multiple Venues: Primary events at Las Vegas Convention Center West Hall, with additional activities at Caesars Forum and nearby partner hotels
  • Registration: Separate registration required; historically sells out within hours of opening
  • Age Restriction: 18+ event (strictly enforced with ID verification)
  • No Official Recordings: DEF CON maintains a “no official recordings” policy to encourage open discussion

Preparation Resources

  • Review DEF CON Archives for past talks and materials
  • Join the DEF CON Forums for community discussions and updates
  • Study the Code of Conduct before attending
  • Plan early for Las Vegas accommodations (hotels near convention center book 6–12 months in advance)

Official Channels

  • Website: https://defcon.org/
  • Forums: https://forum.defcon.org/
  • Twitter: @defcon
  • Email: info@defcon.org

Note: DEF CON 34 details are based on historical patterns and will be updated as official information is released by the DEF CON team. Always verify dates and logistics through official channels before making travel arrangements.

Schedule

Week Date Topic Materials
1 Aug 6 Registration & Opening Events

Badge pickup, village setup, social events, and opening ceremonies. DEF CON 101 for first-time attendees.
2 Aug 7 Main Conference Day 1

Keynote address, technical talks across multiple tracks, village activities (Hardware, IoT, Wireless, etc.), and contest kickoffs.
3 Aug 8 Main Conference Day 2

Advanced technical presentations, workshops, capture-the-flag competitions, and hands-on hacking challenges across all villages.
4 Aug 9 Main Conference Day 3 & Closing

Final talks, contest finals, closing ceremonies, and community gatherings. Last chance for village participation and networking.