I don't want to hijack another person's thread unnecessarily.
, as well as a few other places. Make sure you look in the spoilers. These threads should address the common questions. For reference, the current incarnation of the rules is:
1) All hacking tests are done using Attribute + Skill: This is consistent with the core mechanic. Ex: Logic + Hacking
2) All Common Use and Hacking programs are effectively free. Common Use programs probably come with most OS. For Hacking programs, in SR4 software piracy is the rule, not the exception. Legality is still a factor. Attempting a task without the correct program loaded in memory is a -4 penalty, as per the normal penalty for attempting a task without appropriate tools.
3) Program ratings for Common Use and Hacking programs are irrelevant and gone. Note that it is still important to track which programs are in active memory, since this can still cause Response degradation. Whenever a task calls for a program rating, use System instead.
4) Pirated OS are also available basically for free. These options are restricted to the options listed in the book, however. Non-standard OS must be obtained normally, i.e. through availability and at normal cost.
5) To compensate for lower costs of not buying programs, all commlinks have their cost multiplied by their Response rating. Cheap commlinks are still cheap, but a deluxe model still costs a significant number of BP, although still not as much as before.
6) Technomancers – Use Resonance + Skill.
7) Technomancers – CF cost the same as spells. 3BP or 5 karma.

Technomancers – Threading still adds dice to the use of any CF. If the Technomancer has that CF, it adds dice to the test. If the Technomancer does not have the CF, extra dice will help to offset/overcome the standard -4 penalty. (see rule 2)
9) Technomancers – Threading drain is physical if the number of dice added exceeds Resonance / 2 (rounded down). (Resonance/2 was used instead of Resonance because Program/Complex Form rating is no longer part of the pool, thus the technomancer is starting with a “full� pool of Resonance + Skill, so the effect had to be scaled down) The technomancer can forego rolled successes when threading for lesser effect but lesser drain, if desired.
If you have questions, use an old thread, start a new thread, or PM me, I don't want to hijack another thread with this.