I always suggest to readers that they not try to be the first one on the block to run a new OS X version. For example, this morning my iMac had an Xcode update and a security update waiting, so I ran those with the knowledge I’d be updating to OS X El Capitan later. Click the Download button to download the OS X El Capitan installer. Note: It’s always a good idea to run any other updates that might be available before running the OS X update. Instead, it’s right up front in the Featured section. Apple pulled a fast one this time and did not make it available through the regular “Updates” tab. (OWC has an array of storage solutions to help you with this step.) Just be absolutely sure you have a current backup (or two) before you start on the off chance that something goes wrong during the update to El Capitan. Rocket Yard readers are intelligent and good-looking folks who always keep their Macs backed up with the help of Time Machine, Carbon Copy Cloner, SuperDuper! or another service. Make sure your Time Machine or other backup has been updated

MacBook (Late 2008 Aluminum, Early 2009, or newer).

However, if you’re not sure, here’s a list of the minimum Mac models that can run El Capitan - just know that the Mac must have a 64-bit CPU, meaning an Intel Core 2 Duo or newer processor: Make sure your Mac can run OS X El CapitanĪre you running OS X Yosemite? If so, your Mac can run El Capitan as the two operating systems have exactly the same system requirements.

Here’s our quick guide on how to make a fast and easy transition from OS X Yosemite to OS X El Capitan. Just a short while ago, OS X El Capitan became available for download and installation by Mac owners.

Upgrade to os x el capitan download