3DS:Is it safe to update?

If the console already has CFW
Before the console can be updated, make sure Luma3DS is on the most recent version. To check its version, hold while turning on the console.

Luma3DS 10.2.1 and newer
You can update to 11.15.0 without problems.

Luma3DS 8.0 - 10.2
You must first update following the Restoring / Updating CFW guide. Otherwise an error screen will appear.

Luma3DS 7.1
boot9strap must be updated first, or newer versions of Luma3DS will not work. Follow the guide at Updating B9S.

Luma3DS 7.0.5 and older
Your console must first be upgraded from arm9loaderhax to boot9strap. Follow the guide at A9LH to B9S.

If the console does not yet have CFW
The latest version, 11.15.0.47, can be hacked using seedminer.

Any version can be hacked with ntrboot or kartdlphax, but these require additional hardware such as a compatible DS flashcart or a second 3DS with Mario Kart 7.