How to Create a Mixed Challenge (Downloadable File + Docker Container)

Some challenges require participants to work with both a docker container and downloadable files. For example, they might need to analyze a PCAP file and then use a VM to exploit a vulnerable service. This combination provides a comprehensive, real-world experience.

Here’s how to create a mixed challenge using the Simulations Labs platform.

Steps to Create a Mixed Challenge

1. Go to the Challenges Tab

From your dashboard, navigate to the Challenges tab in the sidebar.
 Click the “Create New Challenge” button.

2. Select Challenge Type and Upload Files

• Choose Combined from the challenge type options

• Upload your downloadable file(s) — this could be .zip, .pcap, .exe, .docx, etc.

• Upload your Docker Container files

3. Fill in the Challenge Details

Complete the following fields:

• Name
  
  

• Category
   Choose the best fit (e.g., Network Security, Exploitation, Threat Hunting).
  
  

• Tags
   Add tags like pcap, reverse_shell, vm, multi-part.
  
  

• Level
   Easy, Medium, or Hard.
  
  

• Duration 
   Suggested time to complete the challenge.
  
  

• Points
   Define the challenge’s value.
   Example: 400
  
  

• Solution
   Enter the expected flag or answer.
   Example: flag{dns_to_rce}
  
  

• Description
   Clearly explain the scenario and how the two elements (file and VM) connect.
   Example:
  
  
   We captured suspicious network activity. Start by analyzing the provided PCAP file to discover the attack vector, then access the VM to investigate the compromised host and retrieve the flag.
  
  
  

4. Save and Preview

Once all details are entered:

• Click “Save” to store the challenge.
  
  

• You can go to the Preview tab to see how the challenge will appear to participants before assigning it to a CTF.