Apple has just recently released the OS X 10.11 El Capitan update to help improve the performance of their desktops.

The update is now currently available at the Mac App Store for free, but folks looking to get it right away should take the necessary precautions first.

According to Tech Crunch, prior to downloading the new operating system (OS), Mac users should first backup their computer. After that, they can go ahead and see if their Time Machine is the latest version and then proceed to copy the contents of their hard drive onto an external one. Once that is done, users need to find an online file storage service and also save there.

As an added requirement, users looking to get the OS X 10.11 El Capitan update also need to have the Snow Leopard software already present on their device of choice.

The devices that are currently eligible to receive the new OS include any 2007 or later version of the iMac; the 13-inch aluminum MacBook released in late 2008 or any 13-inch model launched after early 2009; any version of the MacBook Air later than 2008; any 15- or 17- inch MacBook Pro released in mid to late 2007 or later than that; any 13-inch MacBook Pro released later than middle of 2009; any Mac Mini released after early 2009; and lastly, any Mac Pro released after early 2008, according to Tech Radar.

Improvements included in the OS X 10.11 El Capitan update include faster graphics rendering speeds and better rendering efficiency as well. Apps will also operate more efficiently with the new update.

There are also more specific changes that have been made such as enhancements added to both Mission Control and Spotlight. The Safari browser will also now be able to use pinned tabs. A new split-screen view will also allow users to utilize two apps at the same time thanks to the latest update.