Cybersecurity & Hacking with Take-Home CyberDeck Computer

Yes. Teens learn ethical hacking in a simulated, closed system. This enables them to learn how to protect systems from attacks in a safe environment, not connected to a real network. All the hacking happens on the cyberdeck mini-computer they build and own, using the Secure Shell (SSH) protocol to access their own Raspberry Pi. Along the way, they learn cybersecurity basics for keeping devices safe.

This course is designed for beginner to advanced students. Our small class size ensures that each student receives individual attention and has the freedom to learn at their own pace. Instructors are trained to be in tune with students’ unique needs and provide a personalized learning experience. 

Teens learn the Linux command line, the Secure Shell (SSH) protocol and core cybersecurity concepts step by step during the week. Teens who already code or tinker with computers can customize their cyberdeck further.

Yes, it's theirs to keep. A cyberdeck is a mini-computer teens build themselves, designed as a closed system with fun and security in mind. They start with a Raspberry Pi as the base, boot up Linux, hack in using the Secure Shell (SSH) protocol, then customize it with apps and mini-games that run locally, and can even design a custom case. At the end of the week, they take home the cyberdeck and all its custom components to show off their hacking skills to family and friends.

Yes! Every iD Tech experience contributes toward leveling up along the iD Tech Pathway. This course is worth 1,500 XP— learn more about the iD Tech Pathway here.

While we are a tech program with the goal of transforming your child’s interests into real-world STEM skills, we are also a summer camp. Simply put, camp is a balance of learning and fun! Students learn in small groups in labs on a prestigious college campus and from expert instructors who are trained to engage and inspire.

Day camps kick off with icebreakers and team-building before jumping into morning coursework. When it’s time for lunch, your child will walk from the computer lab to the dining hall as they take in the beauty of campus. Students return to the learning labs in the afternoon for more exciting coursework, followed by an afternoon break where they will have the chance to take part in outdoor game time and more campus discovery before wrapping up with instruction!

Overnight campers work until dinner and then go off to create deeper connections and memories while gaming, watching movies, and more. Your child will experience the magic of camp during days and nights filled with learning and adventure that builds lifelong friendships.

Day camp runs 9am to 4:30pm Monday through Thursday, with check-in beginning at 8:30am and pick-up available until 5pm. On Friday, camp ends after Family Showcase, which runs 2–3pm. Overnight campers check in Sunday at 6pm and are also picked up Friday between 2 and 3pm.

Students spend approximately five hours per day on the computer, taking breaks to engage in recreational activities throughout their sessions.

Our instructors are recruited from top universities, but more importantly, they are elite mentors who understand kids, share their interests, bring first-hand experience, and serve as real-life role models for what the future holds. They are trained extensively in-person (and virtually) to differentiate engaging content to campers’ needs, connect to each child, and inspire them to pursue their dreams.

All instructors are adults (no high school counselors-in-training), fully background-checked, and trained in safety and first aid. Campers learn in small groups with a 10:1 average student-to-instructor ratio, split first by age and then, as needed, by experience level. Instructors monitor group dynamics closely and will move a camper to a different seat or class section right away if a pairing isn't working. Every camper agrees to our Code of Conduct, and staff are trained to step in quickly.

Yes! You can register today for as little as $375 per student and pay the balance in convenient monthly installments. You can save $50 by registering for multiple sessions, and you can earn $25 in credit when you invite a friend to join camp (your friend saves $25 when they sign up too!).

As courses frequently sell out, we recommend registering early to secure your child's spot. You can make unlimited changes with no fees up to 28 days before the start of your session. If you need to cancel before March 1st, you will receive a full refund of the amount paid. If you cancel after March 1st but still 28+ days before your session, you will receive a refund less the additional fees (if applicable) and a $250 cancellation charge per week. Within 28 days of your session start date, changes are subject to a fee, and no refunds are provided for cancellations.

All computers, equipment and software are provided in our camp labs, so your child doesn't need to bring a laptop or tablet, or download anything ahead of time. They should wear and/or pack comfortable clothing and shoes (preferably athletic shoes), a jacket or sweatshirt, sunscreen for outdoor activities, and a clearly labeled or identifiable water bottle (if students don't bring one, we'll have disposable cups). If your child has an account for games like Roblox or Minecraft, have them bring their login information to camp. Overnight campers should check their pre-camp details, since room setups and whether bedding is included vary by location.

Headphones are optional: students may bring their own, but we do not provide them. Spending money is optional too. Some locations allow for purchasing vending machine snacks or souvenirs in the campus bookstore, but we don't guarantee these opportunities each week and recommend that students not bring more than $30–$50.

At the conclusion of your child's course, they will receive an iD Tech diploma as well as a transcript outlining everything they learned over the week. They’ll also take home a USB with their course project files, along with access to installation and setup guides so they can continue working at their own pace.

In addition to valuable tech skills, kids and teens leave camp with new relationships, resilience, critical thinking opportunities, and an even greater love for tech (if that’s possible!).