08-15, 17:00–17:50 (US/Eastern), Tobin
Why limit yourself to Ethernet and Wi-Fi when every wire in your house can carry packets? This talk explores alternative physical networking technologies that exist but are often overlooked. From powerline networking (HomePlug AV/AV2) to MoCA over coaxial cables, the talk will dive into how these systems work, their encryption and security models, known exploits, and the inherent risks of non-switched cable mediums. Real-world applications, including whole-home audio and video distribution, network segmentation strategies, and the unexpected advantages of leveraging existing infrastructure will also be explored. You’ll see how HDMI matrices, IP-based video distribution, and networked audio solutions like SonosNet can integrate seamlessly over alternative backbones. Segmentation techniques to isolate security cameras will also be covered. Expect deep technical insights, practical lessons from years of experimentation, and a fresh perspective on what’s possible when you stop thinking of cables as just power or TV lines - and start treating them as network highways. Whether you’re looking to expand connectivity in a complex environment or just want to push the limits of home networking, this talk will leave you with new tools, techniques, and ideas to explore.
Haxedalot is a hacker and cybersecurity professional with over 30 years of experience in technical security, networking, and digital forensics. With a background spanning federal law enforcement, military cyber defense, and leading roles in corporate security, their expertise blends deep technical knowledge with hands-on experimentation.