March 4 - April 1, 2026
Introducing: Arctic Howl
Following the inaugural mission, Echo Response, Arctic Howl introduces a new set of weekly machine drops built around real-world attack and defense scenarios. You'll face structured, task-based challenges, earn points through flag submissions, and track your progress on a live global leaderboard.
The Gauntlet is OffSec's free capture the flag event built to test real-world defensive security skills under pressure.
Adapt. Endure. Return stronger.
The Gauntlet: Arctic Howl, introduces a new format. Instead of our previous 8-week run, this season will be a 4-week fast-track. New challenges, evolving difficulty, and an unfolding adversary ensure the pressure never stays the same.
Whether this is your first CTF or your next proving ground: Arctic Howl rewards learning, persistence, and adaptation.
How to participate
1
Create your free account
Use the form below to create your free OffSec account or sign in if you already have one.
Pro tip: You'll need an account before accessing the event!
2
Register for The Gauntlet
Log into your account and head to The Gaunlet event page to register and claim your spot.
Don't wait too long! Seats are limited.
3
Start solving on March 4th
New machines will drop weekly starting March 4th. Unfinished tasks = leaderboard fuel for your rivals.
Keep checking your emails and come back every week.
4
Climb the leaderboard
Earn points by getting it right and getting it fast. Faster solutions earn First PWN bonus points!
Check your progress against other hackers on live event leaderboards.
5
Prove your infiltration capability
Finish in the top rankings to win exclusive OffSec rewards.
Remember: Every flag brings you closer to glory and exclusive OffSec loot
1
Create your free account
Use the form below to create your free OffSec account or sign in if you already have one.
Pro tip: You'll need an account before accessing the event!
2
Register for The Gauntlet
Log into your account and head to The Gaunlet event page to register and claim your spot.
Don't wait too long! Seats are limited.
3
Start solving on March 4th
New machines will drop weekly starting March 4th. Unfinished tasks = leaderboard fuel for your rivals.
Keep checking your emails and come back every week.
4
Climb the leaderboard
Earn points by getting it right and getting it fast. Faster solutions earn First PWN bonus points!
Check your progress against other hackers on live event leaderboards.
5
Prove your infiltration capability
Finish in the top rankings to win exclusive OffSec rewards.
Remember: Every flag brings you closer to glory and exclusive OffSec loot
Arctic Howl starts in
01
Days
14
Hours
04
Minutes
35
Seconds
Win $14,000 in exclusive prizes
Season 2: March 4 - April 1, 2026
Limited seats available
Please ensure you are subscribed to our emails to receive notifications and prizes for Proving Grounds: The Gauntlet.
This event is open to all OffSec accounts. If you're already registered, you can sign in here .
What this season brings
-
Free entry for all active OffSec users
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4 weeks of new, exclusive hands-on labs
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Structured defensive task challenges
-
Live global leaderboard with First PWN bonuses
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$14,000 in prizes
including limited-edition OffSec swag and training subscriptions
-
Proof of skill, bragging rights, and a shot at the top
The Gauntlet FAQ
The OffSec Legends
The OffSec Legends, inspired by OffSec's world-renowned certifications, are powerful guides who lead you through The Gauntlet.
The stealthiest can slip past the fiercest defenses, leaving no sign behind.
Kali
The most cunning twist security, slipping through barriers and leaving chaos behind.
ShadowGlyph
The most perceptive can slip through any defense, unnoticed and untouchable.
NightHorn
The cunning unravel webs, slipping through barriers with lethal grace.
Widow
The slyest can bypass any barrier in this realm or others.
Cipherflare
The most relentless can sever any connection, striking without warning and leaving no trace behind.
Nullgrim
The most steadfast defend any stronghold with unwavering resolve.
KnightWarden
The fastest can pierce through any defense, striking with lethal speed and leaving no trace behind.
Hornet Tracer
The most commanding control the storm, eliminating threats with unmatched force.
AnchorHelm