Software Defined Radios (SDRs) are a powerful tool that has made the once obfuscated domain of the electromagnetic spectrum open to anyone with a low-cost laptop and radio. From both an offensive and defensive perspective, an enormous attack surface with many legacy devices and protocols is open for exploitation.

This class is a beginner's introduction to practical Software Defined Radio applications and development with an emphasis on exercise-based learning. SDR 101 is a course designed for cyber security professionals of all skill levels who want to start working with RF signals and SDRs.

This course is structured around multiple labs and exercises based on real world signals; and built on the premise that hand-on learning is the best way to teach students. The course begins with a block on required RF theory that gives students the foundational underpinnings for RF and DSP development. After the foundational theory section, the course transitions into basic and advanced signals analysis using live radios. We will then dive into an open-source tool called GNUradio, using both common pre-generated blocks and our own custom modules, to make fully functioning SDR toolchains. We will follow that with more advanced signals analysis, RF transmissions, and an overview of common RF attacks. The course will end with a capstone RF exploitation exercise and exam that will reinforce all learned concepts.