How to Install Python on Windows, Linux & macOS: Step-by-Step Guide

Before diving into Python programming, you need to install the Python interpreter on your system. In this article, we will guide you through the Python installation process for Windows, Linux, and macOS—ensuring you have everything you need to get started.

Table of Contents:

1. How to Check if Python is Already Installed
2. Installing Python on Windows
3. Installing Python on Linux
4. Installing Python on macOS
5. Do You Need an IDE for Python?
6. Conclusion: Get Started with Python

How to Check if Python is Already Installed

Before installing Python, it’s a good idea to check if it is already present on your system. Here’s how you can do it for Windows, Linux, and macOS.

On Windows:

1. Open the Command Prompt.
2. Type the following command and press Enter:
   
   
   

   bash

   
   

   
   

   
   

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   python --version



   
   
   
   

If Python is installed, you’ll see the version number, such as Python 3.9.x. If not, it’s time to install Python.

On Linux or macOS:

1. Open Terminal.
2. Type one of the following commands based on the Python version you’re checking:
   
   
   

   bash

   
   

   
   

   
   

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   python3 --version



   
   
   
   

   or

   
   
   
   

   bash

   
   

   
   

   
   

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   python2 --version



   
   
   
   

If Python is installed, the version number will be displayed. If it’s not installed, follow the installation steps below.

Installing Python on Windows

Follow these steps to install Python on Windows:

1. Visit the official Python Downloads page and download the latest version of Python for Windows.
2. Once downloaded, double-click the installer to run it.
3. In the installation window, check the box labeled “Add Python 3.x to PATH” and click “Install Now”.
4. After the installation completes, you can verify it by typing python --version in the Command Prompt.

Installing Python on Linux

For most Linux distributions, Python 3 can be installed easily using the package manager.

1. Open your Terminal.
2. Update the package list and install Python 3 using the following commands:
   
   
   

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   sudo apt update

sudo apt install python3



   
   
   
   
3. After installation, you can verify the Python installation by running:
   
   
   

   bash

   
   

   
   

   
   

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   python3 --version

   
   
   
   

Installing Python on macOS

Python 3 is pre-installed on recent macOS versions, but if you need to install or upgrade it, follow these steps:

1. Download the latest version of Python 3 from the official Python website.
2. Open the downloaded .pkg file and follow the on-screen instructions.
3. Once installed, verify the installation by running the following command in Terminal:
   
   
   

   bash

   
   

   
   

   
   

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   python3 --version

   
   
   
   

Do You Need an IDE for Python?

While Python comes with a basic built-in environment, it’s not ideal for larger projects. You might want to install an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) like PyCharm, which provides features like debugging, version control, and code completion.

Installing PyCharm

Follow these steps to install PyCharm, one of the most popular Python IDEs:

1. Visit the PyCharm Download page.
2. Download the appropriate version for your operating system (Windows, Linux, or macOS).
3. Run the installer and follow the prompts:
   • Select 32/64-bit launcher.
   • Tick .py under Create Associations.
4. After installation, launch PyCharm and choose a theme.
5. You are now ready to start your Python projects in PyCharm!

Conclusion: Get Started with Python

Congratulations! Python is now installed on your system, and you are ready to begin your programming journey. Whether you’re on Windows, Linux, or macOS, Python’s cross-platform compatibility ensures a smooth setup for any environment.

Now that you have Python and an IDE installed, it’s time to start coding and exploring the world of Python programming.