Cyberpunk 2077 2.0: Best Netrunner Builds & Cyberware Tier List

Cyberpunk 2077 2.0: Best Netrunner Builds & Cyberware Tier List
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The 2.0 update rewrote Cyberpunk 2077's netrunning meta. Quickhacks now scale with RAM, cyberware capacity is limited, and the perk tree demands focus. If you want to melt enemies from the shadows or turn the whole Arasaka tower against itself, you need a build that works with the new rules. Here are the best netrunner builds and the cyberware that makes them sing.

How the 2.0 Update Changed Netrunning

Gone are the days of spamming legendary quickhacks with zero consequences. In 2.0, RAM management is your lifeblood. Overclock (unlocked from the Netrunner tree) lets you trade HP for RAM, turning you into a glass cannon. Monowire now deals major quickhack damage on hit, and cyberware capacity means you must choose carefully. The best builds either lean hard into stealth with Short Circuit and Sonic Shock, or go loud with Contagion + Overheat combos.

Netrunner Build Tier List (2.0)

S-Tier

  • Stealth Netrunner (Overclock + Epic Short Circuit) – Using Sonic Shock to mark enemies, you uplink and detonate most targets in one hit. With the Subdermal Weave and Blood Pump, Overclock risk is manageable. This build trivializes stealth sections and most bosses.
  • Spreadsheet Runner (Contagion + Overheat) – A single Contagion spreads through a crowd, and Overheat detonates everyone infected. Combine with a Precision Rifle to finish stragglers. This is the best crowd control build in the game.

A-Tier

  • Monowire Shockwave – Using the Monowire's AoE attack to deliver Short Circuit to multiple enemies. Great for players who want melee + hacking hybrid. Pair with the Cyberware Ex Disk for RAM recovery.
  • System Reset Assassin – Focus on System Reset (instant non-lethal takedown) with high Cool for Silent Running. This build deletes enemies without triggering combat. Less effective against robots, but invaluable for stealth playthroughs.

B-Tier

  • Combat Quickhacker – Mixing Cyberware like the Gorilla Arms with quickhacks like Cripple Movement. A jack-of-all-trades that works but doesn't excel. Good for players who can't resist pulling the trigger.

Best Cyberware in 2.0 for Netrunners

Your cyberware slots are precious. Here are the must-have options:

  • Ex Disk (with Rare/Epic rarity) – Increases RAM recovery rate. Non-negotiable.
  • Biodyne Implants – Extra HP pool to fuel Overclock. More HP = more RAM spent.
  • Blood Pump – Heals you over time, perfect for offsetting Overclock drain.
  • Gorilla Arms or Monowire – Monowire for pure netrunners; Gorilla Arms if you want a fallback melee option (especially for the Beat on the Brat quests).

Quickhack Loadout Suggestions

For a balanced deck, equip these six quickhacks:

  • Short Circuit (single target + huge damage)
  • Contagion (spread + group damage)
  • Overheat (detonate + armor shred)
  • Sonic Shock (stealth + combo with Short Circuit)
  • Weapon Glitch (disable enemy weapons)
  • Cyberware Malfunction (disables enemy cyberware)

Swap System Reset in for boss fights if you're not using it regularly.

Netrunner Tips for Maximum Efficiency

  • Prioritize the Overclock perk early. It turns HP into RAM, letting you chain quickhacks even with low Memory.
  • Use the 'Synapse Burnout' skill only after you've unlocked the top-tier quickhack perks. It deals massive damage but costs 48 RAM – too expensive early.
  • Invest in Engineering for the 'Hacker's Cache' perk. It constantly generates quickhack components, so you can craft legendary hacks.
  • Keep a silenced pistol for emergencies. Quickhacks can be detected; a pistol gives you a clean plan B.

With these builds and cyberware loadouts, you'll tear through Night City's toughest enemies in no time. Netrunning is all about preparation – so queue your hacks, manage your RAM, and rule the streets from the neon glow of your own eyes.

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