Keep in mind, however, that if you want to run homebrew programming, updating your firmware might not be the best choice. If you just want to run official software and games, though, updating is the best choice.
Three Ways to Update PSP Firmware
Sony offers three different ways to update your PSP’s firmware, so you can choose the one that works best for your internet connection and equipment. Because there are three different ways to update, the first step is to choose which one you’ll use. Read the instructions for each if you’re not sure, and choose the one that fits best for you.
Update PSP Firmware via System Update
The most straightforward way to update your firmware is by using the “system update” feature on the PSP itself. You need to have a wireless internet connection in order to use this method, so if you connect your computer via a cable or telephone connection and don’t use the internet on your PSP, you’ll need to choose a different option. If you do have wireless access on your PSP, follow the steps below:
Update PSP Firmware via UMD
The next most straightforward way to update your firmware is from a recent game UMD. Obviously, you can’t use this method on a PSPgo, and it isn’t the best choice if you want the most up-to-date firmware, as even the most recent games will only include the newest version they require to run, and not the newest version released. It can be a good strategy, though, if you only want to bother updating when you have to in order to run the games you own.
Update PSP Firmware via PC (Windows or Mac)
If you don’t have a wireless internet connection or never use the internet on your PSP, you can also download PSP firmware updates to your computer and update from there. There are a few different ways to get the download data to your PSP via a PC, but once you figure them out, it’s not too difficult. The key is to get the update data onto our PSP’s memory stick (or PSPgo’s onboard memory) in the correct folder.