Updating to 3.74 is safe. It does not harm the hardware, and it allows you to:
Use the community database at vitadb.rinnegatamante.it/#/info/firmware. Compare your download to their hash to ensure integrity. ps vita firmware 3.74 download
If your Vita is connected to Wi-Fi, you do not need to download a separate file. Simply: Updating to 3
Note: As of mid-2024, Sony still hosts 3.74 on their servers. This may change in the future, so download it now if you need it. If your Vita is connected to Wi-Fi, you
Unlikely. Sony’s official updates are stable. However, if you lose power during installation or manually delete system files, you risk a soft-brick. This is recoverable using safe mode (press R + PS + Power).
Only if you already have custom firmware (HENkaku) installed. A stock 3.74 Vita cannot be downgraded without a hardware modification (Raspberry Pi Pico or similar). If you updated accidentally, you are stuck until you modchip the device.