Each team of 2-6 members is assigned an image (virtual computer) that has multiple flaws and deficiencies. The team must try to secure as many flaws to the system as they can. For each flaw secured, points are added depending on the level of difficulty. The goal is to achieve to 100 points, which becomes more difficult as the season progresses. The virtual computers given are typically a Windows 7 system, a Windows 8/10 system, and an Ubuntu Linux system. In addition, teams must complete a Cisco Networking Quiz in which they can demonstrate their knowledge of networking principles and protocols.

The competition takes place over (non-consecutive) weekends. Each team has 6 consecutive hours on one day of the weekend to secure as many flaws as possible on the virtual machines.

At the end of the six hours, points are totaled up and the team is ranked based on those of the rest of the United States. Based on the team’s score in the first two rounds, the team is placed into a tier – Platinum, Gold, or Silver. During the next two rounds, the team only competes within their tier. The top 12 teams in the Platinum Tier are invited to the National Finals Competition in Baltimore, MD.