Welcome to the cutting edge of cybersecurity! As a first-time attendee at Black Hat USA, you're about to experience the world's most technical and relevant cybersecurity event.
From August 2-7 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, you'll join thousands of security professionals, researchers, and enthusiasts in this landmark gathering.
Don't miss our special "Day Zero" kick-off reception designed specifically for newcomers like you! It's the perfect opportunity to network and engage with your global cybersecurity community, Review Board members, speakers, help with planning your schedule for the days ahead, and so much more.
Whether you're here for the specialized Trainings, our Summit Day, or the main conference featuring renowned keynotes, over 100 Briefings, and exploring the energetic Business Hall, you'll find yourself immersed in groundbreaking security insights and invaluable connections.
The Black Hat community welcomes you! Prepare for an unforgettable experience that will transform your cybersecurity perspective, and to get you started, here’s a few things that might help!
View the Welcome Guide Attendee Resources10 Essential Experiences Every First-Timer Should Discover:
*Please note, we intentionally do not include Briefings, Summits, Trainings or any other session type in this section. The above are open to all Pass types (excluding Summit Only).
To find out more about Briefings and the other sessions taking place during the conference, visit our conference at a glance page and the following Schedule Viewers:
At Black Hat USA 2025, we have scheduled two dedicated networking opportunities for first time attendees to engage and build meaningful relationships.
No RSVP required, and we hope to see you there!
Black Hat USA 2025 is a marathon, not a sprint! The world's premier cybersecurity event demands strategic planning to maximize your experience.
The sprawling venue spans multiple floors with considerable walking distances between sessions, so comfortable shoes are absolutely essential. Hydration is equally critical: Las Vegas' desert climate and the networking parties can quickly deplete your energy, so carry a refillable water bottle and take advantage of the water stations throughout the convention center.
Build your daily schedule around three anchor points - perhaps a morning keynote, lunch, a specific session, an afternoon networking event or an Arsenal demo.
Use the official Black Hat Events app to create your personalized agenda, but be sure to allow buffer time between sessions for walking, networking, bathroom breaks and meals.
The most successful attendees balance technical learning with strategic connections; don't pack your schedule so tightly that you miss spontaneous conversations with industry peers.
Remember that Black Hat's value extends beyond formal sessions to the hallway conversations, Business Hall demonstrations, and evening social events. Take advantage of "Day Zero" orientation, and while the technical content is invaluable, don't forget to pace yourself - attend a sponsored happy hour, join a community meetup, or simply take short breaks in a quiet lounge space to process what you've learned.
Your Black Hat experience will be intellectually demanding but incredibly rewarding if you prepare thoughtfully and remain flexible throughout this cybersecurity marathon.
Learn, engage, network and have fun!
Some meals are included with your registration based on Pass Type.
Other Options: Multiple dining options are available throughout the venue:
For exact dining location details, please consult the Floor Plan in the Black Hat Events App. Remember to wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated throughout the conference - Las Vegas can be particularly dry!
