How to Install Python on Windows

Learn how to install Python on Windows step-by-step. This beginner-friendly guide includes tips, and everything you need to get started with Python.

Installing Python on Windows is a straightforward process that enables you to run Python programs on your computer. Once installed, you’ll have access to a powerful and versatile programming language that can be used for a wide range of applications, from web development to data analysis and automation. After completing the installation, you can start writing Python scripts using a text editor or an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) like Visual Studio Code or PyCharm. Python also comes with a built-in package manager called pip, allowing you to easily install and manage additional libraries and frameworks. With Python on your system, you're ready to begin coding and leveraging the vast ecosystem of libraries available in the Python community.

Step 1: Download Python Installer

1. Go to the official Python website: Open your browser and navigate to https://www.python.org/downloads/. 
2. Select the latest version of Python: On the homepage, you'll see a button with the latest version of Python. Click the "Download Python" button to download the installer. For most users, the website will automatically suggest the appropriate version (usually the latest stable version).

Step 2: Run the Installer

1. Locate the installer: Once the download is complete, locate the Python installer (.exe file) in your Downloads folder or wherever your browser saves downloaded files.
2. Start the installation: Double-click the installer to run it.

Step 3: Customize Installation (Important Step)

• Check the box to "Add Python to PATH": This is crucial because it ensures that Python can be run from the command line (Command Prompt). Make sure this option is selected before you click "Install Now."
  This step ensures that you can run Python from any directory using python or python3 commands in Command Prompt.
• Choose "Install Now": If you're okay with the default settings, click on "Install Now." The installer will begin the installation process. It will install Python and pip (Python's package manager) by default.

Step 4: Wait for the Installation to Finish

• The installer will take a few minutes to complete. Once done, you will see a screen that says "Setup was successful."

Step 5: Verify the Installation

• Open Command Prompt:
  Press the Windows key, type cmd, and hit Enter to open the Command Prompt.
  

• Check Python version:
  In the Command Prompt, type the following command to check if Python was installed correctly:
  

  python --version

  or
  

  python -V

  
  You should see something like this:
  

  Python 3.x.x

  (where 3.x.x represents the version number you installed). 
  

• Check pip version:
  You can also check if pip (Python’s package manager) is installed by typing:
  

  pip --version

  
  If pip is installed correctly, you’ll see a version number for pip.

Step 6: Install an IDE (Optional but Recommended)

While Python can be written using any text editor, it’s best to use an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) for convenience.

• Install Visual Studio Code:
  You can download Visual Studio Code (VS Code). VS Code is a lightweight and powerful code editor that works great with Python.
• Alternatively, use PyCharm:
  You can also download PyCharm, a popular Python-specific IDE.

Step 7: Test Python Installation

• Open Python: You can now run Python by simply typing python in the Command Prompt:
  

  python

  
  This will start the Python interactive shell. You'll see something like:
  

  Python 3.x.x (default, Date, Time) 
  Type "help", "copyright", "credits" or "license" for more information. 
  >>>

  
  
• Exit Python: To exit the Python shell, type exit() and press Enter.

That’s it! You’ve successfully installed Python on your Windows system. You can now start writing and running Python programs!