Attendees who did not participate in Session 1 are still welcome to join Session 2, form teams, and compete. Participation and/or observation of the competition does not require attendance at all sessions.This live competition session allows participants to solve Capture the Flag challenges through the CTFd platform using NetLab-hosted Windows, Kali Linux, and Windows Server environments.
Competitors will apply technical skills across multiple cybersecurity domains, including networking, user enumeration, file systems, web applications, digital forensics, hashing, services, and operating system security. Challenges are designed to support experiential learning by emphasizing hands-on technical implementation and real-world problem solving rather than passive instruction.
Generative AI tools are permitted during the competition for educational support, troubleshooting assistance, scripting help, and research. However, fully autonomous or agentic AI systems that independently perform attacks, automate exploitation, or submit flags are prohibited.
The competition will conclude at the end of this session, with winners formally announced during the summit closing activities.
How to participate:- Open to all registered CyAD attendees to compete or observe.
- Log into Sched and add the CyAD CTF session(s) to your personal Summit agenda.
- Attend the Pre-Summit CTF Zoom Session, Session 1, or Session 2 to receive competition information and registration instructions.
- If you miss earlier sessions, you may still attend Session 2 to register and participate or observe.
- Register for the competition and either create a team or join an existing team.
- Teams may consist of up to four participants.
- Registered competitors will receive competition access information and credentials.
- Bring your own laptop. A fully charged battery is recommended as power supply may be limited.
- Follow all competition rules and instructions provided by event staff.
CyAD CTF Sessions:- Session 1: CyAD Summit CTF - Team Formation, CTFd Access, and Experiential Learning Kickoff | Wed., June 24, 2026 | 3:30-4:15 PM CDT
- Session 2: CyAD Summit CTF - Live Competition & Experiential Learning in Action, Additional Team Formation & CTFd Access | Thurs., June 25, 2026 | 2:45-3:30 PM CDT
- Closing Session: CyAD Summit CTF - Post-Competition and Experiential Learning Sharing Discussion and Announcement of Winners | Thurs., June 25, 2026 | 4:00-4:45 PM CDT
Details for an optional pre-Summit virtual (Zoom) information session will be announced soon—
please check back for updates.
