How To Install Python On Windows? A Step-By-Step Guide

Python is a high-level programming language used in Windows to build websites and software, automate tasks, and analyse data. Its design philosophy eases code readability using indentation. Now, as Windows doesn’t have python pre-installed, the question is how to install Python on Windows. Worry not! We will help you with this with a step-by-step guide. 

Before moving to the installation steps, you need to have some Prerequisites. Scroll down to find them.

Prerequisites For Python Installation

• Your System must run at least Windows 10 with administrator access.
• It must have access to the command prompt.
• Access to a web browser should be available.

You have learned about the prerequisites. Now, let’s learn how to install python step by step.

Python Installation on Windows 

There are multiple steps to getting Python working on Windows, from downloading to installation. Follow the steps below to install Python on Windows successfully. 

Step 1: Select The Right Version Of Python

The first step on how to install Python is selecting the right version. It will depend on what tasks you want to perform on Python. There are two versions: Python 2, launched in 2000, and Python 3, launched in 2008. If you work on legacy scripts and older projects, prefer Python 2; otherwise, Python 3 would be perfect. You should also choose a stable version because the latest versions contain bugs. 

Step 2: Download Python Executable Installer

The next step in “How to install Python on Windows” is downloading the Python executable installer. Follow the steps below to do this. 

• Open the official Python website on a browser.
• Go to the downloads for Windows section.
• Find and select your preferred Python version.
• Click the link to download the file.
• Choose either Windows 32-bit or 64-bit installer and let it download.

Step3: Run Executable Installer

After downloading the Python executable installer, the next step is to run it. There are two methods for this:

Direct installation

• An installation window will pop up; click on the two checkboxes shown. 
• Click on the Install Now option.

Customised installation

Some people prefer customising installation. For that, check out the following steps:

• Click on Customise Installation and select the optional installation features.
• Select the advanced options in the window shown and click on the Install button.
• At last, select disable path length limit and then click on the close button.

Step 4: Add Python To Path

If you are learning how to install Python on Windows but the Python installer doesn't include the Add Python to PATH checkbox, you can skip this step. Those with the Python installer checkbox must follow the steps below. 

• Search for environmental variables in the start menu and press enter.
• Click the environmental variables, allowing the overview screen to open.
• Double-click on the path and variable from the user variable box and system variable boxes, respectively, and press the edit buttons.
• Paste the Python installation folder path on the first empty field. 
• Click OK and save the changes. 

Step 5: Verify Python Was Installed

The fifth step in “how to install Python on Windows” is verifying that Python was installed. You can do it by opening the command prompt and running the “python -version” command. Another method is using GUI for verification. To do this, go to the directory where you installed Python. Next, double-click on Python.exe or IDLE.

Step 6: Verify PIP Was Installed

If you are learning how to install Python, verifying that PIP was installed is the second-to-last step. To verify if PIP was installed, enter “pip—- version” in the command prompt. After the PIP is successfully installed, you will see the PIP version number, the executable path, and the Python version.

Step 7: Install Virtualenv

Installing the virtualenv package is an optional step, but it is useful. Python software packages are installed across the system by default. Consequently, if a single project changes, it affects all other Python projects. The virtualenv enables making several virtual environments for Python projects. These virtual environments help avoid conflicts and provide a better user experience. To install virtualenv, enter the “pip install virtualenv” command in the command prompt.

Mastering Python 

Python is a popular programming language like R, Java, Go, etc.  After reading this blog, you must have learned how to install Python step by step. Python is easy to code and learn. You can write Python programs in a plain text editor like Notepad, Notepad++, etc. So, start using it and building new sites. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is Python free?

Yes, Python is free to use and has a huge ecosystem with various open-source packages and libraries. 

2. What is PIP in Python?

PIP is a package management system in Python. It is used to install and manage software packages efficiently. You will need PIP to install Python itself. 

3. Which Python Version is the best for machine learning?

The latest version of Python, Python 3.x, is the best for machine learning. It provides access to the latest features, bug fixes, and improvements.

4. Is Python safe for PC?

Safety depends on codes. If you have written the codes properly, they are safe to use. However, incorrect codes can make the applications less secure.  

5. How to check if Python is installed?

If Python is installed, you can find it in the applications menu. You can also use the shortcut key Ctrl+Alt+T, which will show the installed Python version.