Conference Description
Key Takeaways
- Regional cybersecurity conference within the global Security BSides movement, emphasizing grassroots knowledge sharing over commercial interests.
- Covers threat detection, incident response, penetration testing, security operations, and emerging technologies through talks, workshops, and competitions.
- Designed for security analysts, penetration testers, incident responders, IT managers, students, and researchers across enterprise, government, and academic sectors.
- Features interactive villages for hands-on skill development and practical security training.
About BSides Peoria
BSides Peoria is a community-driven cybersecurity conference operating as part of the global Security BSides movement. The event brings together information security professionals, students, and enthusiasts to share research, exchange knowledge, and participate in hands-on activities. Unlike larger commercial conferences, BSides events prioritize open discussion, collaboration, and accessible education within a welcoming environment.
The conference format includes presentations, workshops, competitions, and interactive villages. These villages provide dedicated spaces for attendees to develop practical skills through direct engagement with security tools and techniques.
Technical Focus Areas
BSides Peoria addresses core information security disciplines including threat detection, incident response, and penetration testing. Sessions also cover security operations, cybersecurity research methodologies, and emerging technologies affecting the threat landscape. The program balances theoretical knowledge with practical application, reflecting the hands-on nature of security work.
Industry trends and community-driven security initiatives feature prominently, giving attendees insight into how practitioners are addressing current operational challenges.
Who Should Attend
The conference serves a broad cross-section of the cybersecurity community. Security analysts, penetration testers, and incident responders will find relevant technical content, while IT managers and engineers can gain exposure to current threats and defensive strategies. Students and researchers benefit from networking opportunities and exposure to real-world security challenges.
Attendees typically represent enterprises, government agencies, academic institutions, and startups. The event supports continuous professional development and helps participants stay current with evolving security threats.
Sponsors
BSides Peoria receives support from a mix of security vendors, technology companies, and educational institutions. Sponsors include Brackish, CyberDrain, Bradley University, Bishop Fox, ThreatLocker, Blumira, The Rocket Fuel Factory, Formal AI, Corelight, Pearl Technology, SKB Cyber, and Hacker Tracker.