Quickhacks are one of the most powerful tools inCyberpunk 2077, allowing players to manipulate enemies, devices, and the environment using their cyberdeck. Whether you’re aiming to disable security systems, blind foes, or take control of enemy minds, learning how to equip and manage Quickhacks is essential. However, for new players or those returning after updates, the process of equipping Quickhacks can be confusing. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from unlocking the cyberdeck to installing and using Quickhacks effectively in combat and stealth scenarios.
What Are Quickhacks in Cyberpunk 2077?
Quickhacks are special abilities that allow netrunners to use their cyberdeck to hack into enemies and devices. They function like spells or tech powers and can be used for both stealth and aggressive playstyles. Players can use Quickhacks to distract enemies, deal damage, disable weapons, or take control of electronics such as cameras and turrets.
Common Types of Quickhacks
- Offensive: Overheat, Short Circuit, Cyberpsychosis
- Control: Reboot Optics, Cripple Movement, Weapon Glitch
- Support: Ping, System Reset, Memory Wipe
Each Quickhack has a RAM cost and a cooldown period, which are determined by your cyberdeck and Intelligence stat.
Unlocking the Cyberdeck
Before you can use Quickhacks, you must have a cyberdeck equipped. This is a piece of cyberware installed in your Operating System (OS) slot. The first cyberdeck is given early in the game, but better versions can be purchased from Ripperdocs around Night City.
How to Install a Cyberdeck
- Visit any Ripperdoc (marked by a scissor icon on the map)
- Go to the Cyberware section and scroll to the Operating System slot
- Select and install a cyberdeck different decks provide more RAM, Quickhack slots, and upload speed bonuses
Higher-end cyberdecks also unlock the ability to use Ultimate Quickhacks and hack multiple targets simultaneously.
How to Equip Quickhacks
Step-by-Step Instructions
Once you have a cyberdeck installed, you can equip Quickhacks by following these steps:
- Open theInventorymenu from the pause screen
- Navigate to theCyberwaretab
- Select your cyberdeck under theOperating Systemsection
- A list of available Quickhack slots will appear on the right
- Choose any empty slot and assign a Quickhack from your owned list
- Exit the menu to save changes
You can only equip as many Quickhacks as your cyberdeck allows. For example, basic decks have 3 slots, while legendary decks may have 6 or more.
Where to Find More Quickhacks
- Loot from enemies and terminals: Many Quickhacks drop from defeated netrunners or are hidden in data shards
- Buy from Netrunners: Go to specialized vendors marked on the map to purchase new Quickhacks
- Crafting: With the correct perk and materials, you can craft Quickhacks through the Crafting tab
Each Quickhack has a rarity level (Uncommon to Legendary) which determines its effects and power.
Using Quickhacks in Combat
Once equipped, Quickhacks can be used during gameplay by scanning a target and selecting the appropriate hack.
How to Use a Quickhack
- HoldL1 (PlayStation),LB (Xbox), orTab (PC)to bring up the scanner
- Look at an enemy or device to highlight it
- Your equipped Quickhacks will appear on the interface
- Select the desired Quickhack and confirm to initiate the hack
The amount of RAM available determines how many hacks you can use in a row. Some perks can lower the RAM cost or allow hacks to spread between targets.
Upgrading and Managing Quickhacks
As you progress through the game, upgrading your Quickhacks becomes important to keep up with tougher enemies and new challenges.
Improving Effectiveness
- Upgrade Intelligence attribute for increased RAM, quicker cooldowns, and more hacking options
- Take netrunner perks likeBiosynergyandDiffusionto improve RAM regeneration and chain attacks
- Replace older Quickhacks with higher-tier versions with additional effects
For example, a basicOverheatQuickhack deals damage over time, while the Legendary version also spreads to nearby enemies and causes panic.
Best Quickhacks for Different Playstyles
Choosing the right Quickhacks depends on your preferred approach. Here are some recommendations:
Stealth/Netrunner Build
- Ping: Reveals all connected enemies and devices
- Memory Wipe: Erases enemy alertness
- Reboot Optics: Temporarily blinds enemies
Combat/Assault Build
- Short Circuit: Instant electrical damage
- Sonic Shock: Prevents enemies from calling reinforcements
- Cyberpsychosis: Turns an enemy against their allies
Mixing control and offensive hacks can turn the tide of battle quickly and quietly.
Common Mistakes and Tips
Avoid These Pitfalls
- Forgetting to equip Quickhacks before missions
- Using high-RAM hacks too early in a fight without backup RAM regeneration
- Overloading your cyberdeck with redundant hacks
Pro Tips
- Always keep Ping equipped for situational awareness
- Use breach protocols to reduce hack costs before combat
- Invest in cyberdecks with passive RAM regeneration to keep hacking continuously
With good management, Quickhacks become a lethal toolset that complements any build, whether you prefer brute force or silent takedowns.
Equipping Quickhacks inCyberpunk 2077is a key element of mastering the game’s deep hacking system. By installing a cyberdeck, choosing the right Quickhacks, and using them strategically in combat and stealth, you can turn yourself into a true netrunner. With upgrades, crafting, and smart play, Quickhacks provide endless creative ways to dominate Night City’s enemies. Whether you’re just starting out or optimizing your build, understanding how to equip and use Quickhacks ensures you’ll always have the upper hand in any situation.