Capture-The-Flag Framework and Virtual Environment for Cyber Security Education

Abstract

When studying cybersecurity or other computer-related technical careers, a problem among the students is the lack of hands-on experience. This can be solved by participating in internships, conferences, and competitions. Internship opportunities and local conferences are limited, and not every student has the flexibility to leave their homes, families, and even day jobs for a prolonged period. The solution that is being proposed is to incorporate a virtual environment that includes exercises like a Capture-The-Flag competition, which are contests designed to serve as an educational exercise to give participants experience in securing a machine, as well as conducting and reacting to the sort of attacks found in the real world. This environment will be coupled with a framework that allows students to submit the found flags and be evaluated instantly. Although it bears a resemblance to a Capture-The-Flag competition, this project is meant to be a form of guided self-learning. Key Terms - Capture-The-Flag, Computer Science, Cryptography, Cyber Security.