After months of speculation in the tech world, the release of Apple's latest Mac operating system, Mountain Lion, is fast approaching. And, for Mac owners, now is the time to make sure that your device is in the best possible position to take advantage of its new features.

According to reports, the new OS is all set for a July release. And, in preparation for the main event, CNET's Topher Kessler has a few suggestions to help boot up your machine for the big switch next month.

First, he recommends that you backup all of your files. You can do so by using Apple's Time Machine feature, downloading everything onto an external hard drive or storing your data online with a cloud computing service.

Kessler also suggests backing up the Mountain Lion installer itself, since Apple no longer releases its upgrade in a physical form. Once you've actually made the upgrade to Mountain Lion, the installation files you downloaded from the App store will disappear, so you won't be able to reinstall it if you need to.

It's also a good idea to get your device checked out by an expert retailer or repair service to make sure that there aren't any glitches that might wreak havoc when you install the new OS.

And, if you can resist the temptation to download the new upgrade immediately, Kessler also
advises Mac users to hold off for a week or two in case any errors are reported. By delaying your purchase by a couple of weeks, you can give Apple time to resolve any issues that may crop up.

But, before getting too excited about the release, check with a retailer like PortableOne to make sure that your current hardware is compatible with Mountain Lion. If not, you may be in the market for a new laptop or tablet that is.