DEF CON 34 Hacking Conference 2026

DEF CON is one of the oldest and largest continuously running hacker conventions, held annually in Las Vegas. It focuses on computer security, software, computer architecture, hardware modification, and diverse aspects of hacking. Attendees include a broad range of individuals from computer security professionals, journalists, and lawyers to federal government employees, security researchers, students, and general hackers. The conference provides a platform for engaging directly with policymakers, think tanks, and the press on critical cybersecurity topics. Federal law enforcement agencies like the FBI, DoD, and DHS (via CISA) regularly attend. The theme for DEF CON 34 is 'Agency,' promoting self-determination in technology and enabling individuals to chart their own course and assist others in doing so.