Building Trust Through Direct Connections
As traditional infrastructure becomes less reliable, the ability to communicate without centralized networks is more important than ever. We have been building badges around Meshtastic which is built to help agents set up their own distributed mesh networks wherever they go. Whether you’re off-grid camping, traveling in a caravan, navigating a packed conference, or dealing with a cell outage during a disaster, your badge keeps you connected.
Emphasizing Sustainability and Reusability
We encourage reusing what you already have. Instead of chasing the latest hardware, we focus on getting the most out of gear you know and trust. This saves money, reduces e-waste, and gives you more control over your tools.
Exploring the Hardware Options
In previous years, we worked with off-the-shelf boards, tweaked 3D models, and loaded Meshtastic firmware. This year, we’re digging deeper into the hardware and offering three badge builds designed for different levels of experience and interest.
LEVEL 1: Easy Meshtastic Starter Badge – Heltec V3
For those just getting started, this is the fastest and simplest way to join the mesh. It uses the Heltec V3 board, but with updated instructions for flashing the DEFCON 34 firmware. If you’re new to all this or just want something that works, this is your entry point.
LEVEL 2: Small Meshtastic Badge – Seeed Xiao ESP32-S3
This option is great if you’re ready to level up your skills. It uses the Seeed Xiao ESP32-S3 and is built on a breadboard, so you can start simple and expand as you go. It’s compact, flexible, and the most affordable way to get involved. You’ll learn how to wire up components and customize your setup as you gain experience.
LEVEL 3: Darknet-NG SMAO
A full Meshtastic node on an SAO nRF52840, SX1262 LoRa, two on-board chip antennas, crammed onto a board that plugs into your DEF CON badge and runs off whatever power it can spare.
No battery. Nothing to charge.
It ships pre-flashed on the official DEF CON build, already set to DEFCONnect.
Plug it in, pair your phone, you’re on the con mesh. Nothing to configure.
It’s a presale because we’re not made of money. Every preorder funds the run and the rest of what Darknet-NG puts on: the contest, the swag, the servers, all of it.
Join the Movement
We’re building more than just badges. Whether you’re assembling one for the first time or bringing last year’s back online, you’re helping grow a mesh network that works when other systems don’t. It’s a chance to sharpen your skills, swap knowledge with other agents, and take control of your own gear.
As DEFCON gets closer, we’ll share more updates, guides, and build tips. If you need help flashing firmware or finishing your badge, come find us at the con.
TL;DR
TL;DR – Pick Your Path:
- Want a quick build? Start with Level 1
- Want to learn breadboarding and customize? Check out Level 2
- Want a small SMAO that is custom made Go with Level 3
- Want to grab a kit at the con? [Coming Soon]
