You can also update using a USB memory stick if ever required: PS4 Offline Update Using Safe Mode [Update to 1.76]
That's how i updated mine to 1.76.
What InsaneNutter said. Good tuts there!
I know the last of us (or gta 5) has an 1.76 update. Apparently with a browser in it because I seem to be able to use my browser with out updating with no problem.
Were you signed into the PSN before updating? Generally, the browser is usable on lower firmwares providing you've signed into PSN on the current firmware before updating to 1.76.
The problem me and so many others have is we purchased our 1.76 firmware PS4's after that update was obsolete and to use the browser requires to be signed into the PSN.
I use a DNS that forces the PS4 to load the PS4 playground in the "User Manual" browser in the system settings.