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Talk With an Expert
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SANS Chicago 2026

  • Mon, Jun 8 - Sat, Jun 13, 2026
  • 17 Courses
  • 1 Tournament
  • English
Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile & Virtual (CT)
511 North Columbus Drive, Chicago, IL 60611
Chicago: River
Jump to:

Elevate Your Skills. Redefine the Cyber Game.

Dive into an immersive cyber security training experience at SANS Chicago 2026. Led by world-renowned instructors boasting extensive industry experience, this event offers live access to top experts in the field.

SANS Chicago 2026 is equipped with industry-leading hands-on labs, simulations, and exercises that you can immediately apply upon your return to work.

SANS Live Training

Innovative Courses, Industry-Leading Instructors

Choose from our menu of courses tailored for cybersecurity-seeking practitioners, from foundational skills to cutting-edge innovations, that dive deep into topics like:

  • Hacker Tools, Techniques, and Incident Handling
  • Security Leadership Essentials for Managers
  • Cloud Penetration Testing
  • ICS Visibility, Detection, and Response

and many more!

This event creates an intimate, community-focused atmosphere allowing you to focus on learning in a distraction-free setting with your like-minded industry peers. Enjoy bonus after-class extras like hands-on workshops, and networking sessions that extend value far beyond the classroom.

Your evolution begins here. Join SANS and transform your future.

Students Say

  • Slide 1 of 4
    SANS creates a one-of-a-kind learning experience providing world-class training and fascinating opportunities to network and gain new perspectives from your peers!
    Justin E.U.S. Federal Agency
  • Slide 2 of 4
    The instruction at SANS is top-notch. I have been to several SANS training courses and they never disappoint. The instructors bring real life experiences and show the students how the material can be applied.
    Thomas SeckJohns Hopkins APL
  • Slide 3 of 4
    The labs are giving me a chance to see the course content first hand and interact with it. It's doing a good job of letting me play with it and really seeing how the tools and methodologies work.
    Ryan MoellerEureka Strategic Consulting
  • Slide 4 of 4
    SANS training keeps individuals up-to-date with relevant cyber security information. I can now apply the skills learned towards further maturing my program.
    Nicholas MarriottPfizer
Slide 1 of 0
Early Bird Offer

Save $900 USD using the code "EarlyBirdNA" and pay for any 4-6 day course (excluding Beta Courses) by November 19, 2025.

Important Dates
Refund Deadline:
Hotel Group Discount Deadline:

Courses

Looking for Group Purchasing? Contact Sales

GIAC Certification Exam Attempt

2 Free practice tests when you add a certification exam attempt to your course. Available for select courses below.

OnDemand Access

Add 4 months of OnDemand access to your course purchase. Only available for courses with an OnDemand option.

Showing 9 of 17
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SEC401: Security Essentials - Network, Endpoint, and Cloud

Essentials
SEC401Cyber Defense
SEC401: Security Essentials - Network, Endpoint, and Cloud
  • GIAC Security Essentials
  • 6 Days
  • 46 CPEs
  • Starts 8 Jun 2026 at 8:30 AM CT
  • $8,780 USD (Course)
  • $999 USD (Certification)
  • *Prices exclude applicable local taxes

View course details
Log in to register:In-PersonVirtual

SEC504: Hacker Tools, Techniques, and Incident Handling

Essentials
SEC504Offensive Operations
SEC504: Hacker Tools, Techniques, and Incident Handling
  • GIAC Certified Incident Handler
  • 6 Days
  • 38 CPEs
  • Starts 8 Jun 2026 at 8:30 AM CT
  • $8,780 USD (Course)
  • $999 USD (Certification)
  • *Prices exclude applicable local taxes

View course details
Log in to register:In-PersonVirtual

SEC501: Advanced Security Essentials - Enterprise Defender

Intermediate
SEC501Cyber Defense
SEC501: Advanced Security Essentials - Enterprise Defender
  • GIAC Certified Enterprise Defender
  • 6 Days
  • 38 CPEs
  • Starts 8 Jun 2026 at 8:30 AM CT
  • $8,780 USD (Course)
  • $999 USD (Certification)
  • *Prices exclude applicable local taxes

View course details
Log in to register:Virtual

SEC617: Wireless Penetration Testing and Ethical Hacking

Advanced
SEC617Offensive Operations
SEC617: Wireless Penetration Testing and Ethical Hacking
  • GIAC Assessing and Auditing Wireless Networks
  • 6 Days
  • 36 CPEs
  • Starts 8 Jun 2026 at 8:30 AM CT
  • $8,780 USD (Course)
  • $999 USD (Certification)
  • *Prices exclude applicable local taxes

View course details
Log in to register:In-PersonVirtual

FOR572: Advanced Network Forensics: Threat Hunting, Analysis, and Incident Response

Advanced
FOR572Digital Forensics and Incident Response
FOR572: Advanced Network Forensics: Threat Hunting, Analysis, and Incident Response
  • GIAC Network Forensic Analyst
  • 6 Days
  • 36 CPEs
  • Starts 8 Jun 2026 at 8:30 AM CT
  • $8,780 USD (Course)
  • $999 USD (Certification)
  • *Prices exclude applicable local taxes

View course details
Log in to register:In-PersonVirtual

FOR518: Mac and iOS Forensic Analysis and Incident Response

Intermediate
FOR518Digital Forensics and Incident Response
FOR518: Mac and iOS Forensic Analysis and Incident Response
  • GIAC iOS and macOS Examiner
  • 6 Days
  • 36 CPEs
  • Starts 8 Jun 2026 at 8:30 AM CT
  • $8,780 USD (Course)
  • $999 USD (Certification)
  • *Prices exclude applicable local taxes

View course details
Log in to register:Virtual

SEC555: Detection Engineering and SIEM Analytics

Intermediate
SEC555Cyber Defense
SEC555: SIEM with Tactical Analytics
  • GIAC Certified Detection Analyst
  • 5 Days
  • 30 CPEs
  • Starts 8 Jun 2026 at 8:30 AM CT
  • $8,260 USD (Course)
  • $999 USD (Certification)
  • *Prices exclude applicable local taxes

View course details
Log in to register:In-PersonVirtual

SEC540: Cloud Native Security and DevSecOps Automation

Advanced
SEC540Cloud Security
SEC540: Cloud Security and DevSecOps Automation
  • GIAC Cloud Security Automation
  • 5 Days
  • 38 CPEs
  • Starts 8 Jun 2026 at 8:30 AM CT
  • $8,780 USD (Course)
  • $999 USD (Certification)
  • *Prices exclude applicable local taxes

View course details
Log in to register:In-PersonVirtual

SEC450: SOC Analyst Training – Applied Skills for Cyber Defense Operations

Major UpdatesIntermediate
SEC450Cyber Defense
SEC450: Blue Team Fundamentals: Security Operations and Analysis
  • GIAC Security Operations Certified
  • 6 Days
  • 36 CPEs
  • Starts 8 Jun 2026 at 8:30 AM CT
  • $8,780 USD (Course)
  • $999 USD (Certification)
  • *Prices exclude applicable local taxes

View course details
Log in to register:In-PersonVirtual

Schedule

Keynotes & Talks

Learn from industry leaders sharing key security insights.

NetWars Tournaments

Hands-on competitions to test and sharpen your cybersecurity skills.

Social & Community Events

Network and collaborate with cybersecurity professionals.

Showing 1 of 2
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Tournament: Core NetWars

Registration: All students who register for a 4–6 day course will be eligible to play NetWars for free. Registration for this event will be through your SANS Account Dashboard the week of the event.

About Core NetWars: The most comprehensive of the NetWars ranges, this ultimate multi-disciplinary cyber range powers up the most diverse cyber skills. This range is ideal for advancing your cybersecurity prowess in today's dynamic threat landscape. The winning team and the top five solo players from every Core NetWars tournament throughout the year are offered a chance to compete in the annual SANS Core NetWars Tournament of Champions.

06:30PM - 09:30PM CDT
In-Person

Tournament: Core NetWars

Registration: All students who register for a 4–6 day course will be eligible to play NetWars for free. Registration for this event will be through your SANS Account Dashboard the week of the event.

About Core NetWars: The most comprehensive of the NetWars ranges, this ultimate multi-disciplinary cyber range powers up the most diverse cyber skills. This range is ideal for advancing your cybersecurity prowess in today's dynamic threat landscape. The winning team and the top five solo players from every Core NetWars tournament throughout the year are offered a chance to compete in the annual SANS Core NetWars Tournament of Champions.

06:30PM - 09:30PM CDT
In-Person

Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile

Hotel Special Rates & Reservations

A special discounted rate of 309.00 S/D plus applicable taxes will be honored based on space availability. A limited number of Government Per Diem rooms at the prevailing rate are available with proper ID.

These rates include Internet in your room, complimentary use of fitness center, and are only available through Monday, May 18, 2026.

**Direct hotel booking links to be announced.

Chicago, Embassy Suites

3 Reasons To Stay At The Event Venue

  • Ultimate Convenience

    Eliminate the hassle of daily commutes and wasted travel time. You’ll have everything you need—from your training to dining and amenities - all in one centralized, convenient location.

  • Seamless Networking Opportunities

    Stay where the action is! Maximize your chances to connect with fellow cybersecurity professionals and industry leaders - from impromptu conversations in the lobby to exclusive after-hours events.

  • All Day, All Event Access

    SANS live training events include bonus sessions exclusively at the venue. Staying on-site ensures you won’t miss these opportunities to grow your network and engage with peers beyond the conference agenda.

People Shaking Hands

Travel Information

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Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile

Windy City views near Michigan Avenue. The suites feature views of downtown Chicago and Lake Michigan, two blocks from the Magnificent Mile. Only a 12-minute walk from entertainment, restaurants, and boat cruises at Navy Pier, and 8 minutes from the Chicago Riverwalk. The Theater District is within a mile. Enjoy free made-to-order breakfast and the complimentary early evening social.

Hotel Key Card
View Hotel

Venue Parking Details

- Self-Parking: $61 per day Rate listed is prevailing and subject to change Alternative Parking Options - SANS recommends researching nearby parking facilities for more options. Below are some popular parking apps that can help you locate and reserve space during your training at SpotHero, ParkMobile, and ParkWhiz. Distance from Nearby Airports - Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD): Approximately 16.4 miles - Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW): Approximately 11.9 miles

Travel Arrangements and Parking
Google Maps

Save On United Flights To SANS Events

We are pleased to partner with United Airlines for air travel to our upcoming event. To make flight reservations online please book below and use discount code ZR8A247885. You may also call United Meetings Reservation Desk Monday – Friday at (800) 426-1122 for booking assistance. Booking fees are waived for Meeting reservations. International customers may contact their local United Reservation Desk.

United
Book Your FlightOnline Booking Instructions

Save on Delta Flights To Live Events

Delta Air Lines is pleased to offer special discounts for SANS Institute! You may also call Conferences and Events® at 1.800.328.1111* Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. (EST) and refer to Meeting Event Code ‘NM4QS’. *Please note there is not a service fee for reservations booked and ticketed via our reservation 800 number.

Delta