2025-10-08 –, Prague/ Technical Deep Dive & Innovation
Learning OpenSSL can be intimidating, especially for beginners navigating cryptic commands and complex workflows. This talk introduces an interactive learning platform I have developed that uses simulated terminals, visual diagrams, quizzes, and hands-on labs to teach OpenSSL fundamentals in a more accessible and engaging way. Beyond the beginner experience, I will also share technical lessons learned from real-world deployments, including setting up TAXII servers with FIPS 140 compliance, handling OpenSSL limitations around subject string customization, and automating CRL updates where OpenSSL provides no built-in support. This session blends practical tools with deep technical insights to help teams confidently work with cryptographic systems.
This talk explores the design and technical depth of an interactive learning platform built to help students and professionals master OpenSSL. Attendees will see live demonstrations of how the platform teaches key OpenSSL tasks through guided labs, quizzes, and visual aids. We will cover common learning challenges, including private key and CSR mismatches, certificate chain issues, and CRL management. The session will also dive into lessons learned from applying OpenSSL in production, such as configuring TAXII servers for compliance with FIPS 140, managing subject strings to work around OpenSSL constraints, and automating CRL management with external tools. Attendees will leave with both educational and technical insights to improve their use of OpenSSL.
Aaron is a cybersecurity professional at NetStar where he leads efforts in AI-driven threat intelligence and detection engineering. With a background in systems engineering and automation, he specializes in applying machine learning to complex security workflows including certificate analysis, graph neural networks, and threat attribution. His recent work includes developing layered certificate scoring models for real-time SSL and TLS inspection and integrating human-centric AI design into SOC environments. Aaron is currently pursuing a master’s in Cyber Operations and Security, further deepening his research in applied AI and cryptography. He brings a practical and forward-looking approach to cybersecurity and is passionate about bridging the gap between research and operational outcomes.