Jun 23, 2011 08:40 GMT  ·  By

A brand new firmware for the PlayStation 3 home console has been released by Sony, taking the device's software up to version 3.66.

Sony has been rolling out firmware updates after it got the PlayStation Network online service operational after the infamous hacker attack, with the 3.61 software version forcing users to change their PSN passwords for added security.

Firmware 3.65 was released a few weeks later, which, although being optional, still forced users to upgrade the software if they wanted to access things like the PlayStation Store.

Now, a brand new update has been deployed by Sony, taking the firmware version to 3.66.

Like always, Sony declined to say just what the new software brings, limiting itself to saying that, "with this minor update, system stability during use of PS3 format software and network services has been improved."

The firmware will be released today, and is mandatory if you want to access online features like the PlayStation Network or PlayStation Store.

Sony emphasizes that having the latest system software will keep your system safe and secure against intrusions.

"Downloading and installing the PlayStation 3 system software update will update your PS3 system's operating system to include the latest security patches, settings, features and other items. We encourage you to check this page from time to time for system software updates and to always maintain your system to use the latest version of the system software."

Expect Sony to continue to implement new features into its PlayStation devices, from the PS3 to the current PSP or the upcoming PlayStation Vita portable device, which might appear at the end of the year.

The company went through a serious hacker attack back in April, forcing it to take the whole PlayStation Network offline and rebuild it in a more secure fashion.

According to Sony Europe boss, the attack made Sony more vigilant about security, and these new firmware editions definitely serve this purpose.