In the near future, the Internet experience becomes much more immersive, graphically presenting all information in avatar-driven virtual cities. Neil Roberts, a computer programmer for the largest security software provider on the planet, breaks his normal routine when he stops in a bar and witnesses a murder. His once boring life changes drastically when, through a twist of fate and a realization that his life has no purpose beyond his job, he leaves the scene of the crime and becomes a prime suspect. Neil's life then shifts from protecting people and companies to becoming that which he most despised... a hacker.