I recently helped organize a programming competition with about 100 participants, each using their own laptops. We were limited to only around 10 older 4G routers, which we split among groups. Each router was set to allow access only to our contest's platform and specific syntax documentation. Unfortunately, we faced a lot of connectivity issues during the contest like disconnects, high latency, and failed submissions.
To combat cheating, we implemented a network filter to restrict other Wi-Fi networks, but some participants managed to bypass it. There were also nearby free Wi-Fi networks that could be accessed, adding to the challenge. In addition, while we tried to limit access to only necessary sites, some discovered ways into other sites through search boxes on documentation pages, a scenario we hadn't foreseen.
The routers were quite outdated, and some participants had older laptops, which likely worsened the situation. I'm seeking advice on how to enhance the network setup for future contests of this size. Here are my specific questions:
- What would be a better network setup?
- How can we effectively restrict internet access to specific domains on personal devices?
- What measures can we take to prevent participants from switching Wi-Fi or bypassing network filters?
- Would setting up a local contest mirror, a LAN-only system, a captive portal, or managed access points be better solutions?
- Lastly, could anyone share best practices or tools they've found useful in similar situations?
4 Answers
Have you thought about switching to a wired setup for the next event? Relying on Wi-Fi introduces too many variables that can affect stability. This isn't realistic for a coding competition and might overcomplicate things.
Before your next contest, conduct a mock test and recruit some participants to try and bypass the restrictions you’re planning to implement. Monitor all network traffic closely to capture any unauthorized access attempts and take note of the blocked domains. You can keep rerunning these tests until you feel satisfied with your security measures. However, be aware that it’s impossible to block everything completely; tech-savvy individuals might always find a way around it. As for the documentation issue, consider making offline versions of all necessary resources and require participants to use those without internet access in a secure, monitored space.
Maybe consider going really old-school? Try using a central minicomputer with dumb terminals for each contestant and only allow physical documentation. No electronics allowed aside from that setup—I’d even bet bonus points for getting things submitted on punch cards!
Honestly, sometimes you just have to accept that cheating happens and focus on the spirit of competition. You could even consider rewarding the most clever cheater instead of cracking down hard. In any case, making the competition experience as enjoyable for everyone as possible should be the main goal.
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