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Getting Started in Cloud CTF

Abstract

This article details how to register for a CTF and choose your team setup.

If your CTF is offered through a Cyber Range course, follow the Private CTF Environment section.

If your CTF offers public registration (for example, if you were provided a direct URL to the CTF), follow the Public CTF Environment section.

Private CTF Environment

In order to begin in a private CTF environment, students must first join their course within the Virginia Cyber Range. More information on joining a course can be found in the article titled How to Join a Course.

  1. Once in the course, select Cloud CTF from the list of exercise environments.

  2. Select the Join My Environment button for the Cloud CTF environment. This will open another browser tab for the CTF.

    After choosing the CTF environment, the Join My Environment button is the only control on the right.

  3. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete CTF sign-up.

More detail on joining a CTF from a course can be found in the article titled Joining a CTF From a Course

Public CTF Environment

  1. After following a link for public CTF registration, you will be directed to the following page:

    The Enter button for the CTF is located below the competition's dates.

  2. Select Enter and you will sign in to one of the given account providers. Once authenticated, you will be shown the following play options:

    Under Player Options is Play Solo, Join a Team, and Create a Team.

    Select the option you would like to use to compete:

    • Play Solo: Play by yourself
    • Join a Team: Join an existing team with the Team Leader's permission
    • Create a Team: Start a new team that other's can join to compete together

    Important

    If the CTF admin has disabled the Allow players to change teams option, players will only be able to view the Play solo option. CTF admins may refer to the section titled Allow/Disallow Players to Change Team Name for more information.

  3. Choosing the solo option will direct you to the CTF homepage where you can begin participating in the CTF. It is important to note that choosing to play solo prevents you from having teammates for the duration of the CTF.

  4. If choosing to join a team, you will be given a drop-down menu of team options to choose from

    The drop-down menu will appear after selecting the Team input field.

  5. Select the team you would like to join. Once you have selected your chosen team, the Team Leader will have to accept your request before you can participate.

  6. If you choose to create a team, this page will allow you to make a team name. Type your team name and select Create.

    The Create button is under the Team Name input field, after the Cancel button.

  7. Once you have chosen your team configuration, you will be directed to the CTF homepage where you can begin participating in the CTF

    The homepage contains categories, challenges, ranking of teams, CTF activity, and a timer for the competition.

For information on beginning competition and solving challenges, please refer to the article titled How to Solve a Challenge in Cloud CTF.

Have a Question? Contact Support

If you experience any issues starting or viewing Cloud CTF in your web browser, please refer to the article titled Can't Launch Cloud CTF for helpful tips on resolving the matter.

If you still have questions after reviewing the information above, please reach out to your CTF Admin or Instructor who can submit a ticket to our Support Team on your behalf.