Users who weren't locked out of the PlayStation 3's XrossMediaBar will be able to download PS3 firmware 4.46 through the System Update menu.

Sony has also issued step-by-step instructions for those affected by the faulty 4.45 firmware, detailing the process to download the firmware file manually from a computer and then installing it on the PS3 in safe mode via a USB stick.

Sony's for manually applying the 4.46 firmware are reproduced below:

Step 1: Manually Download System Software

• You will need a USB Mass Storage device such as a USB flash drive with at least 168 MB of free space. If your PS3 is either CECHA00/CECHB00 series model, you can also use Memory Stick#153;, SD Memory Card, and CompactFlash®.
• Create a folder named #153;PS3#153; on the storage media or USB device.
• Within the PS3 folder, create a folder named "UPDATE".
• Using your computer, to begin downloading system software 4.46
• Download the update data from the webpage and save it in the "UPDATE" folder.
• Location: Save in the #153;PS3#153; folder > #153;UPDATE#153; folder
• File name: Save as file name #153;PS3UPDAT.PUP#153;
• Note: If the data is not saved in the correct way, the PS3 will not recognize the update data. The folder name must be in all uppercase letters.

Step 2: Activate Safe Mode

• With the PS3 off (power light should be red), touch and hold the Power button, you will hear the 1st beep indicating that the PS3 is powering on.
• Continue to hold the power button, and after approximately 5 seconds you will hear a 2nd beep.
• Continue to hold the power button and after 5 more seconds you'll hear a 3rd beep, and system will power off (Power light goes red).
• Release power button.
• Touch and hold the Power button, you will hear the 1st beep, again for PS3 power on.
• Continue to hold and after approximately 5 seconds you will hear the 2nd beep for video reset.
• Continue to hold and after 5 seconds you will hear a quick double beep. At that point release power button.
• If you succeeded in activating Safe Mode, you will see a message on screen saying, "Connect the controller using a USB cable and then press the PS button".
• Connect a controller to the PS3 with a USB cable.
• If you were not able to get into Safe Mode, your system may need service. .

Step 3: Manually Update PS3 Software

• Connect the storage media to PS3 system.
• Select [6 - System Update] and Press X.
• Please note: Data and settings may be deleted if you choose any of the first (5) options. Please make sure to only choose option [6 - System Update].
• Press Start and Select at the same time.
• The PS3 system will restart and recognizes the update file in the storage media.
• Press right on the d-pad to scroll through the update description and user agreement.
• Press X to confirm the update.
• The system will now install the new system software and restart automatically upon completion.

From: www.gamespot.com