First off, what is firmware? Firmware is basically the PSP’s system software (such as Windows XP for computers).  Before we start, let’s see what Firmware you have on your PSP.  Depending on when you bought your PSP, the firmware will vary. Just click on the Settings icon (1st icon) that looks like a toolbox and go down to System Settings.  Now go down to the System Information button and click X. Your PSP will display your “System Software Version”, a.k.a. your firmware version. The number that it displays is your firmware version.

 

Now there are pros and cons of updating your Playstation’s Portables firmware are that each time you update your firmware new added features will be on your PSP, such as you will be able to play more music filetypes.  But, if you  download homebrew games for your PSP, updating your firmware may not allow some homebrew games to be played.  It’s your call what you want to do.  Yes, it is possible to downgrade,  but only with certain firmwares can you downgrade with.  To learn How to Downgrade your PSP's Firmware, click here.

 

Before you download the latest firmware using any of the following methods, make sure you have at least 22 megabytes on your MemoryStick Duo and during the update, make sure your PSP is charging.

 

There are several ways to update your PSP’s firmware:

 

  1. Updating using your PC

 

First, plug in your PSP to your computer via USB cord and click the USB Connection button under “Settings”.  Make sure that both your computer and PSP recognize that it is plugged in.  Then, open up whatever drive you plugged you PSP into and create a folder named "PSP" Within the "PSP" folder, create a folder named "GAME". Within the "GAME" folder, create a folder named "UPDATE". (Folder names must be in all uppercase letters.

 

Then, Go hereàhttp://www.us.playstation.com/PSP/Downloads/SystemUpdate

and review the “Notices” and what you are about to download.  Then click on the “Download Now” button pointing at the PSP.  Read the instructions and the rest is simple!

 

2. Network Updating

If you have a wireless connection in your household (See how to surf the internet on your PSP) or a local hotspot you can go to, this method is best for you.

 

On your home menu on your PSP, go all the way to the left and open up the “Settings” icon. Then, go down to “Network Update” and click X.  Select a connection from the list and wait for it to connect.

 

After that’s finished, your PSP will check if there is a newer firmware than the one your already have.  If there is none, simply exit out of this.  But if there is a later version, click X and wait for the file to download.

 

After the download is complete, your PSP should automatically direct you to the Update Data.  If it does not.  Follow the onscreen directions, be patient, and you're all set!