Conference Description
Key Takeaways
- CarolinaCon 2026 marks the 20th anniversary of this hacker and maker community conference
- The virtual event runs October 23 to 25, featuring talks, workshops and online social activities
- Content spans hacking, information security, digital making and broader technical disciplines
- Designed for security researchers, penetration testers, IT professionals, developers and technology hobbyists
About CarolinaCon
CarolinaCon 2026 is a virtual conference taking place October 23 to 25, marking two decades since the event first launched. The conference serves the hacker, maker and technology community through a programme of talks, workshops and online hangouts. As a community-driven gathering, it provides a platform for sharing knowledge and experiences across information security and related technical fields.
The event welcomes participation from both presenters and attendees, with opportunities for professionals and hobbyists to contribute content. Social elements include trivia games and informal online gatherings alongside the technical programme.
Technical Focus Areas
CarolinaCon covers hacking, information security, technology and digital making. The conference draws content from across the security and technology spectrum, accommodating both professional practitioners and enthusiasts exploring these disciplines. This breadth reflects the event’s roots in hacker culture, where technical curiosity and hands-on experimentation are valued regardless of formal credentials.
Who Should Attend
The conference targets security researchers, penetration testers, IT professionals, developers, engineers, students and technology enthusiasts. Attendees typically work in cybersecurity, IT, academia or technology-driven organisations, with experience levels ranging from newcomers to senior practitioners.
CarolinaCon addresses common challenges facing this audience: staying current with evolving security threats, learning new techniques, building technical skills and connecting with peers who share similar interests. The virtual format makes the event accessible to participants regardless of location.
Community and Learning
The event prioritises education, community building and networking over commercial objectives. Its longevity reflects sustained interest from the security community in gatherings that combine serious technical content with an informal, inclusive atmosphere. The interactive format encourages both learning and social engagement among participants.