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SANS Cyber Defense Initiative® 2026

  • Mon, Dec 14 - Sat, Dec 19, 2026
  • 32 Courses
  • 1 NetWars Tournament
  • English
Grand Hyatt Washington & Virtual (ET)
1000 H Street NW, Washington D.C. 20001
Washington, DC, Washington Monument

Cybersecurity Accelerated: Master a Year’s Skills in Just Six Days.

Elevate your cybersecurity skillset at SANS Cyber Defense Initiative® 2026! Dive into an exhilarating week of intensive, top-tier training designed to sharpen your skills, whether you're just starting out or advancing your expertise. Engage directly with leading minds in the field through hands-on labs and real-world techniques, and gain insights that only face-to-face interactions can offer.

Connect with SANS faculty, participate in expert-led talks, and networking events exclusively offered in-person, and join a community of peers who are just as passionate as you are. From networking events to community-building activities, you’ll enjoy all-access, in-person only benefits that foster memorable and lasting connections. 

Innovative Courses, Industry-Leading Instructors

Choose from over 30 courses tailored for every practitioner, from foundational skills to cutting-edge innovations, that dive deep into topics like:

  • Incident Response
  • Hacker Tools and Techniques
  • ICS/SCADA Security Essentials
  • Cyber Threat Intelligence
  • AI/Machine Learning

and many more!

Plus, enjoy bonus after-class extras like hands-on workshops, expert-led talks, and networking events that extend value far beyond the classroom.

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

Early Bird Offer

Save $900 USD using the code "EarlyBirdNA" and pay for any 4-6 day course (excluding Beta Courses and 300 Level Courses) by May 27, 2026.

Important Dates
Refund Deadline:
Hotel Group Discount Deadline:

Courses

Looking for Group Training? Contact Sales

Schedule

Workshops

Join hands-on sessions solving real-world security issues.

NetWars Tournaments

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

Keynotes & Talks

Learn from industry leaders sharing key security insights.

Grand Hyatt Washington

Hotel Special Rates and Reservations

A special discounted rate of $242.00 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.

There is a daily discounted destination fee of $10 per room, per day, plus applicable taxes. Destination fee includes high-speed wireless internet in guest rooms, access to 24hr fitness center, bottled water, and daily newspapers. Destination fee is waived for any Government per diem rooms. It will show up on the booking link but will be removed at check-in.

These rates are only available through Monday, November 23, 2026.

**Direct hotel booking links to be announced.

Washington DC, Grand Hyatt Washington

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.

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Travel Information