Do I need to update the firmware on my Nik...

My Nikon View didnt work, so I deleted it, thinking I could re-download it on the Nikon website. I cant find it anywhere? I notice theres a firmware update, but I dont know what that is, or how it affects my camera? Also, I read how to do it, but Im very confused. I think I need to have a Nikon service representative do it for me.
Does all the things it mentioned have to be updated, the card, the card reader, the camera, etc, etc? Im confused????????
Please help.
Can I use the program NikonNet Picture Project, without the firmware update? What is that?