Which Conference Should One Attend?

Looking to attend a cybersecurity conference in the future? Curious which ones to attend? We can help you understand which conferences could be ideal for you, which will take into several considerations such as budget, perception, exclusivity, and networking opportunities.

Budget – Different conferences will have different costs, which will depend on several factors such as whom is running the conference, how sponsorship happens, and whether workshops are being attended. Some local conferences such as BSides will be free. Determining cost is complex, and not a discussion for here, but the point is that the

Perception – Some conferences such as Defcon and Blackhat are seen as something that everyone should attend, a right of passage. Therefore, it is not uncommon for everyone to attend these conferences at least once. Moreover, these same 2 conferences are popular with noncybersecurity folks who want to attend because cybersecurity is a hot topic for the media to report on. Nevertheless, there are conventions that are perceived as local conventions such as BSides or domain specific such as AppSecUSA. These perceptions will change the audience that attends them, and therefore, the experience that an attendee might have.

Exclusivity – Certain conferences such as Shmoocon are well known for being exclusive because they have a few number of tickets available at certain specific times. Therefore, unlike conferences such as BSides or Blackhat, that dont limit the number of attendees. Hence, this limitation upon number of attendees will create demand for the conference, regardless of if one is interested the entire talks. Going to a conference like Shmoocon has its own prestige, which some people do for the prestige if friends are going.

Networking Opportunities – This is directly related to scale of the event, as an event such as BSides would have a more local scope, whereas Defcon or AppSecUSA would have a very broad scope. The more local conferences are great if one is trying to grow their network in their local community, such as if one has moved to a new city or recently moved into cybersecurity. However, events such as Defcon are amazing because it provides an opportunity to meet other members of the global cybersecurity community. A more specifically geared conference such as Digital Forensics conference will attract those who are either trying to get into that domain or are already in that domain.

Therefore, as one can see, before choosing a conference, look at the desired budget for the conference itself and getting to the conference, whom one wants to network work, what type of talks one wants to immerse in, how the conference is perceived, and how exclusive the conference is can really affect the choice.

If one wants a more inclusive, local, and potentially cheaper option, the local BSides conferences are always a great option. However, if one wants the larger scope and popularity, conferences such as Blackhat and Defcon are your go to options.

If you’re looking for tips to network with others at a conference, check out our recommendations. Make sure to follow us on Twitter, leave your opinions in the comments, and come back for more information next week!

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