Two years after the transformative 2.1 update, Netrunning in Cyberpunk 2077 isn't just a playstyle—it's a philosophy. It's about being the ghost in the machine, the digital puppeteer who makes Night City dance to their tune without ever firing a shot. I've spent countless hours exploring every dark alley and corporate server farm, and I can tell you, the freedom this approach offers is still unmatched. Forget brute force; true power lies in turning the city's own infrastructure against your enemies. Whether it's frying a gonk's cyberware from three blocks away or making a car explode with a thought, a Netrunner's toolkit is all about creative problem-solving. The recent patches and ongoing support have only solidified this as the most versatile and, frankly, the coolest way to experience Night City.
Building the Perfect 2026 Netrunner: Stats and Attributes
Let's cut to the chase. To build a truly lethal Netrunner in 2026, you need to plan your attributes like a master strategist. Your starting stats are just a foundation; the real magic happens as you level up.
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Intelligence (20 Points): This is non-negotiable. Max it out. It's the key to cracking the most complex systems and accessing the deadliest quickhacks. This is your primary stat, the core of your build.
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Technical Ability (20 Points): Another must-max. This increases your cyberdeck capacity and unlocks critical cyberware slots. You can't equip the best gear without it.
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Body (17 Points): For a durable build that can survive when things get hot (and they will), 17 points here is the sweet spot. It gives you the staying power for crucial combats.
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Cool (15 Points): This unlocks the Ninjutsu perk, which is essential for any stealth-oriented operations. A little bit of chill goes a long way in the shadows.
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Reflexes (9 Points): The bare minimum here unlocks the Dash perk, crucial for quick maneuvers and escapes. You're a hacker, not a samurai—though you can make samurai malfunction.
Remember, reaching level 60 via the Phantom Liberty DLC is crucial to unlock all the perk points needed for this god-tier setup. It's a grind, but oh boy, is it worth it.
Gear Up: Cyberdecks and Cyberware for 2026
Choosing your hardware is where your build truly comes to life. The right combo can make you feel like a digital god.
Top-Tier Cyberdecks:
| Cyberdeck | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Tetratronic Rippler Mk.5 | Raw Power & RAM | Largest RAM Boost at Tier 5++. Perfect for spamming quickhacks. |
| Netwatch Netdriver Mk.1 | Tactical & Vehicle Hacks | 50% RAM cost reduction and exclusive vehicle quickhacks. A game-changer for races. |
These are still the community's top picks. The Rippler is for when you want to go loud and digital, while the Netdriver is for the subtle, tactical artist.
Essential Cyberware:
Your chrome is your best friend. Here's the must-have list for any serious 'runner in 2026:
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RAM Reallocator: This little beauty restores 30% of your max RAM when it drops below 20%. It's a lifesaver in extended engagements.
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Ex-Disk: Pair this with the Reallocator. It boosts your max RAM by 6 and speeds up quickhack uploads by 23%. Faster hacks mean deadlier efficiency.
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Feen-X Skeleton (Post-2.1): Increases RAM regeneration by a whopping 250%. This turns you into a perpetual hacking machine.
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Cogito Lattice Integumentary System (Post-2.1): Boosts your armor when your RAM is depleted. It encourages aggressive hacking and keeps you safe when you're most vulnerable.
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Reinforced Tendons (Legs): For the iconic double jump. Mobility is key, choom. You can't hack if you're dead because you couldn't jump over a fence.
The Overclock Game-Changer and Creative Domination
The 2.1 update's crown jewel for max-level Netrunners is the improved Overclock Ability. Once you hit level 60 in the Netrunner skill tree, this ability lets you see enemies through walls within a 10-meter radius and hack them directly through cover. It's absolutely busted in the best way possible. No one is safe. No cover can protect them from your digital wrath.
This power opens up wild new strategies. But the creativity doesn't stop there. One of my favorite, lesser-known applications of Netrunning is during the street races. It's hilariously effective and brutally efficient.
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Vehicle Quickhacks: Use the Netwatch Netdriver to disable or outright destroy your competitors' vehicles. It's a straightforward path to a ruthless victory. Talk about an unfair advantage!
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Defensive Hacks: Make yourself harder to hit by uploading quickhacks that blind or confuse enemies shooting at you during the race.
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Stat Boosts: Neutralizing enemy pursuers (yes, they sometimes shoot at you!) can give you temporary stat boosts, making your car faster or more durable.
This blend of high-octane racing and digital warfare showcases the ultimate versatility of a well-crafted Netrunner build. You're not just a driver; you're the puppet master of the entire race.
Final Thoughts: The State of Netrunning in 2026
As we look at Cyberpunk 2077 in 2026, the Netrunning playstyle stands stronger and more nuanced than ever. The patches have refined it into a perfectly balanced instrument of chaos. It rewards planning, creativity, and a deep understanding of Night City's digital underbelly. From maxing out Intelligence to choosing between the raw power of the Tetratronic Rippler and the tactical genius of the Netwatch Netdriver, every choice matters. With the right build, you're not just playing the game—you're bending its very rules to your will. So jack in, choom. The city's waiting, and its systems are yours to command. Remember, in Night City, the quickest draw isn't a gun; it's a thought. 😎