Firmware version 4.31 for PlayStation 3 is now available to download worldwide, however it isn’t a mandatory update.

As far as we can tell the only thing that this update offers is a fix for Monster Hunter Portable 3rd HD, hence why it isn’t mandatory. However, if you wish to download simply go to system update on your XMB, select update from the Internet, and then just follow the on screen instructions as normal.

Again the update isn’t mandatory so you don’t have to download it to continue playing online.