You may or may not know, but the PlayStation Network is now allowing for you to download the next firmware update, version 3.61. The PSN won’t be up once you finished downloading and installed the next update. However it is preparing your PlayStation 3 for when it does come back online.

More details below from Nick Caplin from the Head of Communications from Sony Computer Entertainment Europe:

We have been working on a new PS3 system software update that requires all PSN users to change their password once PlayStation Network is restored. The update (v3.61) is mandatory and is available now.

If using a PS3, your password can only be changed on your own PS3 (or a PS3 on which your PSN account was activated), as an added layer of security. If you have never downloaded any content using your account on the system, an email will be sent to the registered sign-in ID (email address) associated with your account when you first attempt to sign-in to PSN. This e-mail will contain a link that will enable you to change your password. In this email, click on the link and follow the instructions to change your password. Once you have changed your password you can sign-in to your account using your new password.

We strongly recommend that all PSN account holders with PS3s update their systems to prepare for when PlayStation Network is back online. The release of this update is a critical step as we work to make PlayStation Network significantly more secure. Thank you for your continued support and patience.

If your having trouble downloading the update on your PlayStation 3, then go to the PlayStation Official Website ( Link ) to download the update from there!

Keep checking here on the PlayStationer.net for all the latest updates regarding PlayStation Network.