Installing Python: Getting Your Environment Ready
Before you can start coding in Python, you need to get it up and running on your computer.
.jpg "How to Install Python on Windows and macOS A Step-by-Step Guide") |
| How to Install Python on Windows and macOS A Step-by-Step Guide |
Don’t worry, installing Python is as easy as installing an app on your phone! Whether you’re using Windows or macOS, we’ve got you covered. Let’s walk through the installation process for both platforms.
Installing Python on Windows
Step 1: Download the Python Installer
Go to the official Python website: python.org/downloads
You’ll see a big button that says Download Python 3.x.x (the latest version will appear). Click on it.
Step 2: Run the Installer
Once the download is complete, find the downloaded file (python-3.x.x.exe) and double-click to open it.
Important: Before hitting "Install Now," check the box that says Add Python 3.x to PATH at the bottom. This will make sure you can run Python from any location in your system without needing to manually configure the path.
Step 3: Customize Installation (Optional)
If you want more control over the installation, you can click Customize installation. But for most users, the default settings will work just fine.
If you do customize, make sure to select pip, which is Python’s package manager. It will allow you to easily install additional libraries.
Step 4: Finish Installation
Click Install Now and wait for the installation to complete. It will only take a few moments.
Once done, you’ll see a success message. Congratulations—Python is installed!
Step 5: Verify the Installation
To check if Python is installed correctly, open Command Prompt (press Windows Key + R, type cmd, and hit Enter).
Type the following command and press Enter:
python --versionIf everything went well, you’ll see the Python version displayed. You’re now ready to code!
Installing Python on macOS
Step 1: Download the Python Installer
Go to the official Python website: python.org/downloads
Click on Download Python 3.x.x for macOS. This will download a .pkg file for installation.
Step 2: Run the Installer
Open the downloaded .pkg file. This will launch the Python installer.
Follow the instructions, and click Continue through the steps until you reach the Install button.
Step 3: Customize Installation (Optional)
Like Windows, you can customize the installation if you need to. For most users, the default settings will be just fine.
Step 4: Finish Installation
After the installation completes, you’ll see a success message. Python is now installed on your Mac!
Step 5: Verify the Installation
Open Terminal (press Command + Space and type Terminal, then hit Enter).
Type the following command and press Enter:
python3 --versionIf the version number shows up, congrats—you’re good to go!
What’s Next?
Now that Python is installed, you can start coding! To make things easier, we recommend installing a code editor where you can write your Python programs. A popular and easy-to-use option is VS Code (Visual Studio Code), which you can download from here.
Once you’ve installed your editor, you’re ready to start building your first Python program. You can check out GeeksCodes for tutorials, tips, and tricks to help you on your journey.
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| How to Install Python on Windows and macOS A Step-by-Step Guide |
