I know some of my friends have been hounding me to post the pictures from my visit to DefCon 16. So, I have done so. And even organized them. You can see these pics at http://grover.open2space.com/defcon/index.htm.
For those who don't know what DefCon is....
DefCon is a hacker conference primarily focused on computer security and finding ways around systems to access the juicy data behind the blockades. It should be understood though that these efforts are mostly aimed at identifying the holes, so that a fix can be worked out and implemented.
DefCon is not just about computer security though. To access the good computers, sometimes doors need to be bypassed, or alarm systems. So physical locks, and security systems are fair game for analysis as well.
Myself and 3 colleagues/friends traveled to DefCon this year. None of us had been there before, but knew it was something that we *should* do, given our career paths. (we are all computer geeks of one sort or another). I have to say it was a VERY eye opening experience in many ways. The sheer number of people gathered at one spot - approx 9000 attendees - and almost all of them with similar backgrounds/experience in the computer industry. These means that anyone I talked with there understood exactly what it was I do for a living, and the challenges involved. That single point was very comforting, and made DefCon almost like a second home. But there was sooooo much more.
The depth of knowledge involved with the presentations was deep. I know enough to have been able to follow along, but I felt so small compared to the things that were being done. But I also learned that I have been doing things more or less right in terms of security - with my personal computers, and the software I write. I also learned that I can easily expand my skills in different directions with a little effort.
Regarding security, let me say this. Those of you who are very paranoid about securing your computers - well, you are not paranoid enough. You also need to secure your cell phones, PDAs, email systems, and ANYTHING that can be accessed remotely in an electronic fashion.
In addition to the presentations, there was a whole other part to DefCon that isn't talked about all that often in the trade articles. That's the social aspect of the event. You get to meet people with the same passions you have. There are many parties, contests, vendor booths, etc. where you can easily make new friends and trade ideas.
None of my words here really do the event any justice. You have to be there, and experience it yourself to understand the sheer scale of the thing, the sheer impact, the learning opportunities, and the plain old fun to be had. I have every plan at this time to be at DefCon 17 next year. Hope to see you there!