Host Components
Your host is made of hardware and software components, 11 in all, each up to level 10. They decide how fast you crack and how long you last before a trace. Manage them on the HOST page.
Your Level Is Your Weakest Part
Your level is the lowest level among your 11 components. One cheap part holds the whole rig back. To reach the next level, every component has to get there. The bar at the top of HOST shows how many are ready.
Hardware
CPU: Main processor. Shortens the time you need to crack a target.
GPU: Backs up the CPU. Shortens your crack, and pairs with it for Overclock.
RAM: Shortens your crack a little.
Storage: Holds what you extract. No direct effect on the timers yet.
NET: Network stealth. Lengthens the time before a target traces you.
Miner: Earns Bits on its own over time. See Economy & Mining.
Software
Firewall: Main defense. Makes attackers take longer to crack you, and traces them faster.
Antivirus: Backs up the Firewall, and pairs with it for Fortress.
Cracker: Your main breaking tool. Shortens your crack the most.
Back-tracing: Traces attackers faster, so you can cut their connection.
AI: Shortens your crack and lengthens your trace a little, and powers Ghost Protocol.
Upgrading
Upgrades cost Bits and take real time. You run one hardware and one software upgrade at once, so keep both slots busy. Cost and time climb with each level.
Synergies and Builds
Some pairs of components, both at level 5, unlock a synergy. The mix of components you push also gives you an archetype. See Synergies and Archetypes & Builds.