Cyberpunk 2077: 10 Pro Tips to Build the Ultimate Netrunner Hacker

1. Max Out Intelligence First

Your primary attribute for netrunning is Intelligence. Invest every early point into it until you hit 20. This unlocks legendary quickhacks, reduces cooldowns, and multiplies damage. Pair it with Cool for stealth bonuses and Technical Ability for cyberware capacity.

2. Prioritize the 'Ping' and 'Short Circuit' Quickhacks

Ping reveals all enemies connected to a device through walls—essential for planning silent takedowns. Short Circuit is a direct damage quickhack that also combos with passives like Electro Shock for massive damage. Upgrade them to legendary as soon as possible.

3. Equip the Right Cyberdeck

Your cyberdeck determines buffer size and hacking speed. The Rippler MK.4 is ideal for spreading quickhacks to multiple enemies. Late-game, the NetWatch Netdriver MK.5 offers great RAM management and upload speed. Always check vendors for rare versions.

4. Invest in 'Bloodware' and 'Hackathon' Perks

In the Intelligence perk tree, Bloodware increases quickhack damage against bleeding enemies, and Hackathon spreads a second quickhack to nearby foes. These synergize with crowd control. Also grab Criticism for crit chance on quickhacks.

5. Use Stealth to Your Advantage

Netrunners are fragile. Stay hidden behind cover or in vents. Use Reboot Optics to blind enemies and Whistle to lure them away. The Camouflage Network perk makes you invisible while uploading quickhacks—invaluable for survival.

6. Optimize Your Cyberware

Pick cyberware that boosts RAM regeneration and quickhack damage. Notable choices: Synaptic Accelerator (slows time when detected), Biomonitor (auto-heals), and Heal-on-Kill mods. The Maneuvering System lets you dodge while locked on.

7. Craft Legendary Quickhacks from T5 Components

Once you have the Datamine Virtuoso perk (requires Technical Ability 18), you can craft legendary quickhacks. Farm Epic Crafting Specs from access points and craft legendary ones using legendary components found in Scavenger dens or bought from the ripperdoc in Rancho Coronado.

8. Combine 'Contagion' with 'Overheat' for AoE Destruction

Contagion poisons a target and spreads toxins to nearby enemies. Follow up with Overheat to detonate the poison, causing massive area damage. This combo can wipe entire rooms before they even react.

9. Hack Access Points for Credits and Components

Access points are goldmines—they yield quickhack components, crafting materials, and credits. With the Quick Hacking perk, you can breach them faster. Always hack all access points in a mission; they also contribute to Datamine Virtuoso for better quickhacks.

10. Plan Your Perk Loadout for Synergy

Beyond Core Intelligence perks, invest in Cool's Stealth tree for Assassin's Mark (headshot multiplier while hiding) and Technical Ability's Crafting tree for Mechanical Engineer (legendary crafting). Avoid perks that boost weapons; focus solely on hacking, stealth, and survivability.

With these tips, you'll become a ghost in the machine, dismantling enemies from the shadows. Happy hacking, V!