Top Cyber Security Conferences

TL;DR

Here’s a guide to some of the best cyber security conferences in 2024, covering different focuses and budgets. We’ll look at Black Hat, DEF CON, RSA Conference, BSides, SANS Institute events, and smaller, regional options.

1. Understanding Your Needs

Before diving into conference lists, think about what you want to get out of it:

• Skill Level: Beginner, intermediate, or advanced?
• Focus Area: Application security, network defence, forensics, governance/risk/compliance (GRC), etc.?
• Budget: Conference costs vary hugely. Consider travel and accommodation too.
• Networking Goals: Do you want to meet specific people or companies?

2. Major Cyber Security Conferences

1. Black Hat USA (Las Vegas, August): Highly technical, focused on the latest research and exploits. Expensive but worth it for advanced professionals.
   https://www.blackhat.com/
2. DEF CON (Las Vegas, August): Hacker-focused; a more hands-on, community-driven event than Black Hat. Also in Las Vegas and runs concurrently with Black Hat.
   https://defcon.org/
3. RSA Conference (San Francisco, May): Broad coverage of cyber security topics, more business-oriented than Black Hat or DEF CON. Good for learning about industry trends and vendor solutions.
   https://www.rsaconference.com/

3. More Affordable Options

1. BSides: A series of community-run conferences held globally. Excellent value for money and a great place to network with local security professionals.
   https://www.securitybsides.com/
2. SANS Institute Events: SANS offers intensive training courses, often followed by conferences or workshops. Can be expensive but provides in-depth learning.
   https://www.sans.org/

4. Finding Regional Conferences

Don’t overlook smaller, regional events:

• Google: Search for “cyber security conference [your city/region]”.
• Eventbrite & Meetup.com: These platforms often list local security talks and workshops.
• Twitter/X: Follow cyber security influencers and hashtags (e.g., #infosec, #cybersecurity) to discover events.

5. Tips for Getting the Most Out of a Conference

1. Plan Your Schedule: Review the agenda beforehand and identify sessions you want to attend.
2. Network Actively: Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to speakers and other attendees. Have business cards ready.
3. Take Notes: Capture key takeaways from each session.
4. Follow Up: Connect with people you meet on LinkedIn after the conference.