How to Install Python on Windows, macOS, and Linux

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Python is a powerful programming language used worldwide for web development, data science, automation, and much more. However, for beginners, installing the latest version or a specific version can sometimes be confusing.

In this detailed and beginner-friendly guide, we’ll walk you through installing Python on Windows, macOS, and Linux. Whether it’s your first time or you’re updating to a specific version, this guide will help you get started easily!

How to Install Python on Windows

Step 1: Download the Installer

  1. Visit the official Python website: python.org/downloads.
  2. Click the Download button for the latest version. For a specific version, click View the full list of downloads and choose the desired version.

Step 2: Run the Installer

  1. Go to your Downloads folder and double-click the file (e.g., python-3.x.x.exe).
  2. On the first screen, check the box Add Python to PATH—this is crucial for using Python via the command line.
  3. Click Install Now to start the installation.

Step 3: Verify the Installation

  1. Open the Command Prompt (Win + R, type cmd, and press Enter).
  2. Type:
    python --version

    This command should display the installed version.

Step 4: Install a Specific Version

  1. Download the specific version from the Python website.
  2. Follow the same steps as above, ensuring you uninstall any existing versions first if necessary.

How to Install Python on macOS

Step 1: Check the Pre-Installed Version

macOS comes with Python pre-installed, but it may not be the latest version. To check, open the Terminal (Cmd + Space, type Terminal) and run:

python3 --version

Step 2: Download Python

  1. Visit python.org/downloads and download the latest version for macOS.
  2. For a specific version, choose it from the list of available versions.

Step 3: Install Python

  1. Locate the .pkg file in your Downloads folder and double-click it.
  2. Follow the on-screen instructions in the installation wizard.

Step 4: Configure Python in the Terminal

  1. If the correct version is displayed, the installation was successful.

How to Install Python on Linux

Step 1: Check the Current Version

  1. Open the terminal (Ctrl + Alt + T).
  2. Run:
    python3 --version

Step 2: Update Repositories

Before installing, ensure your system is up to date:

  • For Debian-based systems (Ubuntu, Mint):
    sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade -y
  • For Fedora:
    sudo dnf update -y
    • 




  • For Arch/Manjaro:
    sudo pacman -Syu
    • 






Step 3: Install the Latest Version





    

  • For Ubuntu/Debian:
    sudo apt install python3
    • 




  • For Fedora:
    sudo dnf install python3
    • 




  • For Arch Linux:
    sudo pacman -S python
    • 






Step 4: Install a Specific Version





    

  1. Download the desired version’s source code from python.org/downloads.
    2. 




  2. Extract and compile it:
    tar xvf Python-3.x.x.tgz
    cd Python-3.x.x
    ./configure
    make
    sudo make install
    3. 






Step 5: Verify the Installation





Run the following command in the terminal:





python3 --version










Troubleshooting Tips





    

  • PATH Error (Windows): Ensure the Add Python to PATH option was checked during installation.
    • 




  • Permission Issues (Linux): Use sudo for commands requiring administrative rights.
    • 











Conclusion





Now you know how to install Python on Windows, macOS, and Linux! Whether you’re just starting with programming or need a specific version for a project, this guide ensures a smooth installation process.





If you have any question, doubt or advice, please leave your comment.





For more details, visit the official Python documentation. Happy coding! 😊