backing up dev_flash folders before fw downgrade

[nodice]

Could someone point me to a thread on the easiest method of backing up my dev_flash folder before I attempt to downgrade my firmware from ofw 3.50 to 3.41?
I have an older fat ps3 and I'm sure I'll lose bluray playback. I've read that 3.55 fw can now be updated to Geohot's 3.55 jb fw and then install blackbox ftp then use that to find the drl1-2 files or the complete folders but I have no idea where to find a tutorial on how to use ftp and where the files are located on the ps3. Can I use ftp to backup the files to a usb drive? Is there an easier way?
I'm not asking for anyone to type out instuctions until their fingers bleed but a link would be appreciated or if you're willing to help that would make you my hero lol. I did a forum search but I can't find anything other than everyone saying to back them up first and btw I've found the threads on how to restore either by hex editor or the newly released tools but still would feel safer backing up the originals before going any further.
I don't have my dongle yet but should have it in a week or so. By the time it gets here it may not be needed anyway.

Thanks for any helpful replys (crossing my fingers)

[chesh]

Either use Comgenies Awesome File Manager or Blackb0x FTP server v1.2. Once you have Blackb0x installed, it will should your IP address of your PS3. Install a FTP client on your PC and type in the IP address and connect. Dev_flash3 will be one of the locations you can browse to right from the root folder. Copy dev_flash3 right to your desktop. Simple as that.

[nodice]

Ok the dev_flash folder sounds easy cheesy to locate. So I willhave to update to ofw 3.55 1st then install geohot's 3.55 jb fw so I can use blackbox ftp? You made it understandable and I've read and read but nothing clicked, did I mention I'm a newb lol filezilla would be ok on my pc and should I unhook the internet, my ps3 is hardwired to a router with my pc...

Using Comgenies Awesome File Manager will allow me to backup to a usb and reinstall after downgrading? That sounds easiest but i think I can handle a ftp server.

[chesh]

That would be the easiest solution as far as I can tell, unless there's a 3.50 cfw that will let you install packages, but I'm not sure there is. As far as unhooking the i-net, ya can do that or just set your DNS to 1.1.1.1 and that will keep your ps3 away from the update servers.

[nodice]

Groovy, THANKYOU so much, you are now my official hero!!! LOL