OpenInfreno Frequently Asked Questions

and Stuff We Thought You Should Know...

  1. FAQ Root
  2. General Website Information
  3. Project Overview, Questions, and Stuff
  4. RootWars Questions and Stuff
  5. Project Software Development Process
  6. Development Questions and Stuff
  7. Implementation Questions and Stuff
  8. Game Execution Questions and Stuff
  9. Anything Else...

3.0 RootWars Questions and Stuff (Updated 26-AUG-05)


  1. What is RootWars?
  2. What do I need to play?
  3. Barred Participants

Unlike the other sections of the FAQ, this is specifically for contestant questions. All other sections deal with the project from developer and implementer point-of-view. Those looking for developer and implementor info, please skip this section.


3.1 What is RootWars?

For those familiar with DefCon's Capture the Flag contests, Root Wars is very similar. Essentially a number of teams compete with one another to capture and hold various servers on a victim network. As teams capture victims, they plant their flags in a pre-determined area, at which time the score server detects the flag and assigns points based on a series of pre-determined rules. They then must work to secure the services and avoid killing the machine while preventing other teams from stealing the server from them.

What do I need to play?

Contestants will need to bring their own computer equipment (laptop or desktop system) and their own tools. We do provide PHLAK or KNOPPIX-STD discs for those who wish to use them for the game. We do not suggest using the Windows-based operating systems, unless you are operating behind a secure firewall or have a good personal firewall installed. You should also bring a hub, switch, or other network device for connecting to the network. A firewall or premise router is also advisable.

Barred Participants

The standard disclaimers apply here. Obviously anyone who is on the Team is prohibited from competing as a participant. This is only fair, as the participant may have inside knowledge that is unavailable to other contestants. This includes any current team members, and any former team member who has been on the development and/or execution teams at any time in the last year.

For the sake of keeping the game enjoyable for all participants, other barred participants are as follows:

  • Any person who has been found to be cheating in a previous competition.
  • Any person who has attempted or successfully DoS'd another participant, a victim machine, or has attempted or successfully broken into or DoS'd the score server or other infrastructure not part of the victim network in a previous competition. (This does not include systems designed as part of the game to DoS teams, if used in accordance to the instructions of the team.)
  • Any person who was physically violent or confrontational to another participant or one of the Root Wars Goons during a previous competition.