With just days remaining until registration closes, we're excited to share the complete event schedule and format details for the Best Security Cyber Defense Encounter. This comprehensive guide will help teams prepare for the intensive 6-8 hour challenge ahead.

Complete Event Schedule

All times are listed in UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) to accommodate our global participant base. Teams should convert these times to their local timezone for planning purposes.

Day 1 - May 28, 2025

08:30 – 09:00

Virtual Check-in & Tech Support Available

Teams can join early to test their connections, verify lab access, and resolve any technical issues with our support team.

09:00 – 09:15

Welcome & Briefing by Organizers

Official welcome, introduction to the competition format, and overview of the day's activities.

09:15 – 09:30

Rules Review & Judging Criteria

Detailed explanation of competition rules, evaluation criteria, and award categories.

09:30 – 09:45

Secure Lab Access Instructions

Teams receive their unique lab credentials and access instructions for the competition environment.

09:45 – 15:45

Live CTF Challenge (6 hours)

The main competition event featuring realistic APT attack scenarios across multiple SIEM platforms.

15:45 – 16:15

Lab Access Closes & Team Submission Window

Final 30 minutes for teams to complete their documentation and submit their findings.

16:15 – 16:30

Thank You Message & What's Next

Closing remarks and information about the judging process and results announcement.

16:30 – 18:30

Judge Scoring (Private)

Expert panel evaluates team submissions and performance across all award categories.

Day 2 - May 29, 2025

13:00

Results Announcement & Top Defender Recognition (Livestream)

Live ceremony announcing winners across all categories and recognizing the Top Defenders of 2025.

What Participants Need

To ensure a smooth competition experience, teams should prepare the following technical requirements:

Stable Internet Connection

Reliable broadband connection with updated browser. All lab access is browser-based with no software installation required.

Webcam & Microphone

Recommended for team communication during the event and participation in the wrap-up session.

No Software Installation Required

Complete browser-based lab access means teams can focus on the challenge without technical setup concerns.

Time Zone Considerations

The competition runs from 09:45 to 15:45 UTC on May 28, 2025. Here are some key timezone conversions:

Eastern Time (EDT): 05:45 - 11:45
Central European Time (CEST): 11:45 - 17:45
Pacific Time (PDT): 02:45 - 08:45
Japan Standard Time (JST): 18:45 - 00:45 (next day)