John Conner, now an adult, in fear of the events that took place at a young age, lives off the grid--no phone, no job, no credit cards. After failing twice, SkyNet does send another machine called the T-X, even more powerful and advanced than the dreaded T-1000. However, another CSM-101 Terminator is also sent back to protect John against the T-X.

Now, Skynet is patiently assuming control of civilian computer systems, under the guise of a computer virus. John has also met his future wife, Kate Brewster, whose father - a U.S. Air Force General - is in charge of the military computer systems and is leery of up linking SkyNet. However, when the SkyNet virus infects the U.S military computers and leaves the country open to attack, the machines begin their horrific takeover. Soon a nuclear war will result - and the war against the machines will begin.

Can the outdated CSM-101 Terminator eliminate the highly advanced T-X or will a darker future await man following the nuclear attack?