About the challenge

SYNthesis Hacks is a networking-focused hackathon where participants build projects that explore networking through applications, security, automation, analysis, and interactive learning. Whether you are brand new to networking or already have experience with tools like Python, Wireshark, GNS3, Packet Tracer, Netmiko, or NAPALM, there is a track for you.

Participants can build anything from educational games and simulations to real networked applications, security configurations, automation workflows, and traffic analysis tools. The goal is to make networking more approachable, more practical, and more exciting through hands-on building.

Get started

Doors open at 9:00 AM for check-in, followed by a 9:30 AM team mixer and a 10:15 AM opening presentation. Hacking officially begins at 10:30 AM and runs until the 3:00 PM hard deadline. Judging begins at 3:30 PM, winners are announced at 5:30 PM, and the event ends at 6:00 PM.

At a glance:

  • Hacking: 10:30 AM – 3:00 PM
  • Breakfast: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
  • Lunch: 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM

Requirements

What to Build

Build a project related to networking. Possible categories include:

  • (Beginner) Social or Game: Create a technical application or design a game that helps users understand a networking concept or protocol, such as an interactive simulator
  • Network Application: Create an application that involves hosting and serving multiple users through the internet
  • Security: Write ACLs (Access Control Lists) to secure and filter network traffic
  • Network Programmability and Automation: Use Python with Netmiko or NAPALM to access Cisco devices and automate configuration
  • Network Analysis: Create a network analysis tool or dashboard that can intake a packet capture file and output analytics, including traffic behavior or potential security attacks
What to Submit

Each team should submit:

  • A project name
  • A short description of the project
  • The category the project fits into
  • An explanation of how the project connects to networking
  • Any demo materials needed to evaluate the project

For best results, make sure your submission clearly explains the problem you tackled, what you built, and how it works.

Hackathon Sponsors

Prizes

$500 in prizes
Beginner Track
$100 in cash
1 winner

Network Application
$100 in cash
1 winner

Security(ACL)
$100 in cash
1 winner

Network Programmability and Automation
$100 in cash
1 winner

Network Analysis
$100 in cash
1 winner

Devpost Achievements

Submitting to this hackathon could earn you:

Judges

Rachit Verma

Rachit Verma

Judging Criteria

  • Scope
    How much scope does this project undertake

Questions? Email the hackathon manager

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Hackathon sponsors

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