Joining and attending a DEF CON Group

A first meeting should not require an introduction to the security industry. Local groups bring together people who want to learn and share, including beginners, experienced practitioners, students, and people exploring a new interest.

Find the current meeting information

Start with the directory. Follow the group's public website or community channel and check its latest announcement. A directory listing can help you find organizers, but the local event announcement is the place to confirm logistics.

Before leaving, check the date and time zone, venue, registration instructions, any admission cost, and any age or access restrictions. Ask the organizer about accessibility or other attendance needs. Meeting formats and venues vary, so one group's arrangements may differ from another's.

What to expect

Meetings may include talks, demonstrations, projects, challenges, or informal conversation. You can ask what to bring and whether an activity assumes prior knowledge. Bring a laptop only when useful for the advertised activity; attending does not require demonstrating your skills.

Respect the group's conduct expectations, other attendees' boundaries, and the venue. Ask before photographing someone or sharing information that identifies them. Follow the organizer's instructions for any practical activity.

If the listing does not work

Try the group's other published contact channel, if available. If you still cannot reach anyone, record which channels you tried and when, then contact the department. A broken link may be a directory issue rather than proof that the group has closed.

Get help with a contact problem · Back to FAQ · Contact the department