The Complete Beginner's Guide to Installing Python
Your step-by-step guide to getting started with Python programming
Introduction to Python
Python is one of the world's most popular programming languages, known for its simplicity and readability. Whether you're interested in web development, data science, artificial intelligence, or automation, Python is an excellent language to learn.
But before you can start writing your first Python program, you need to install it on your computer. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, regardless of whether you're using Windows, macOS, or Linux.
Note: This guide is designed for complete beginners. We'll cover everything from downloading Python to verifying your installation.
Which Python Version Should You Choose?
As of 2023, Python has two main versions still in use:
- Python 3.x (the current version, recommended for all new projects)
- Python 2.7 (legacy version, no longer supported)
You should always choose the latest stable release of Python 3. Python 2 reached its end of life in 2020 and is no longer maintained.
Warning: Do not install Python 2 unless you're working on a legacy project that specifically requires it. All new projects should use Python 3.
Downloading Python
The safest place to download Python is from the official Python website:
The website will automatically detect your operating system and suggest the appropriate installer. For most users, the default download is exactly what you need.
The Python download page with the prominent download button
Installation Guides by Operating System
Click on the tab for your operating system to see specific instructions:
Windows
macOS
Linux
Installing Python on Windows
Step 1: Run the Installer
Locate the downloaded .exe file (it will be named something like python-3.x.x.exe) and double-click to run it.
Step 2: Important Installation Options
Check the box that says "Add Python 3.x to PATH" - this is crucial as it allows you to run Python from the command line.
Make sure to check "Add Python to PATH"
Step 3: Choose Installation Type
For most users, "Install Now" is the best choice. This will install Python with default settings appropriate for most use cases.
If you select "Customize installation", you can choose optional features like installing for all users or associating files with Python.
Step 4: Complete the Installation
Click "Install Now" and wait for the installation to complete. You may see a User Account Control prompt asking for permission to continue.
Installing Python on macOS
Step 1: Download the Installer
Download the macOS installer from the Python website. You'll get a .pkg file that you can run to start the installation.
Step 2: Run the Package Installer
Double-click the downloaded .pkg file to launch the installer. Follow the prompts to install Python.
Step 3: Complete the Installation
The installer will guide you through the process. You may need to enter your administrator password to complete the installation.
Alternative for macOS: Many macOS developers prefer to install Python using Homebrew. If you have Homebrew installed, you can simply run brew install python in the terminal.
Installing Python on Linux
Many Linux distributions come with Python pre-installed. To check if you already have Python, open a terminal and type:
python3 --versionIf Python isn't installed or you want a newer version, use your distribution's package manager:
For Ubuntu/Debian:
sudo apt update
sudo apt install python3For Fedora/RHEL:
sudo dnf install python3For Arch Linux:
sudo pacman -S pythonVerifying Your Installation
After installation, it's important to verify that Python was installed correctly.
Step 1: Open a Command Prompt or Terminal
- Windows: Press Win + R, type "cmd", and press Enter
- macOS: Open Spotlight (Cmd + Space), type "Terminal", and press Enter
- Linux: Open your distribution's terminal application
Step 2: Check Python Version
Type the following command and press Enter:
python --versionOr try:
python3 --versionYou should see output similar to:
Python 3.9.7Step 3: Test the Python Interpreter
Type the following command to start the Python interpreter:
pythonOr:
python3You should see the Python prompt (>>>). Type a simple Python command to test it:
print("Hello, Python!")Press Enter, and you should see:
Hello, Python!To exit the Python interpreter, type exit() and press Enter.
What's Next?
Congratulations! You've successfully installed Python on your computer. Now you're ready to start your Python programming journey.
Here are some next steps to consider:
- Choose a code editor or IDE (like VS Code, PyCharm, or Sublime Text)
- Learn Python basics through online tutorials or courses
- Start with simple projects like a calculator or number guessing game
- Explore Python's extensive standard library
- Learn how to use pip, Python's package manager, to install useful libraries
Tip: The Python community is one of its greatest strengths. Don't hesitate to seek help from resources like Stack Overflow, Python forums, and Reddit's r/learnpython community.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
"Python is not recognized as an internal or external command"
This error means Python is not in your system PATH. Reinstall Python and make sure to check "Add Python to PATH" during installation.
Multiple Python versions causing confusion
If you have multiple Python versions installed, use python3 to specifically run Python 3. You can also use virtual environments to manage different versions for different projects.
Installation fails due to permissions
On macOS and Linux, you may need to use sudo with installation commands. On Windows, make sure you have administrator privileges.