USENIX Security Author Response

USENIX Security gives authors two distinct speaking moments, and they obey different rules: the mid-review response to reviewers, and the post-decision exchange with a shepherd. This skill covers both. Mechanics shift per cycle — the '25 model was documented in detail on the reviewing-model page, the '26 model partially, and the '27 mechanics are 待核实 — so confirm the current instructions in HotCRP before drafting.

Where the response sits in the pipeline

In the '25 model (the last fully documented one): two reviews in round one; papers survive to round two if at least one reviewer sees a path to acceptance after online discussion; round two adds two more reviews; then authors respond; reviewers discuss again and decide. Two consequences follow: