Test Your Network Security Knowledge

SANS NetWars, an interactive security challenge, gives participants the chance to compete while earning continuing education units (CEUs) to help sustain certifications. The event will take place May 15 and 16, 2013, at the Virginia Beach Convention Center during AFCEA’s East: Joint Warfighting event. NetWars is a hands-on computer and network security competition that enables participants to test their experience and skills in a safe, controlled environment. It has been pre-approved for seven CompTIA CEUs in support of A+, Network+ and Security+, and up to 12 SANS certification maintenance units (CMUs) in support of Global Information Assurance Certification.

During the challenge, each player must find hidden keys within a special image downloaded from the Internet. Using these keys, competitors will enter an online environment where knowledge of security vulnerabilities and their exploits can be turned into points. The scoreboard is public, so players and spectators can keep track of standings.

Additional technical information is available online. Registration is available here. Normally $1,095, the fee to participate at East: Joint Warfighting is $499. Participants must bring a laptop to the event.

In addition to the training credits and bragging rights that participants earn, an iPad will be awarded for first place; the book “Counter Hack Reloaded” by Ed Skoudis will be awarded for second place; and a NetWars T-shirt will be awarded for third place. Prizes will be presented at the event luncheon on May 16.