In this tutorial, you'll learn how to install Python on Windows, macOS, and Linux step-by-step using the latest best practices.

Install Python on Windows

1) Download Python Installer

  • Go to the official Python downloads page.

  • Click the link for the latest stable version (e.g., Python 3.13.2).

  • Choose the Windows Installer (64-bit) option to download.

2) Run the Installer

  • Double-click the downloaded installer file.

  • In the installer window:

    • Check the box "Add Python to PATH" at the bottom. This allows you to run Python from the Command Prompt easily.

    • Click Install Now.

  • Leave all other options as default.

  • Wait a few minutes for the setup to complete.

3) Verify Installation

  • Open Command Prompt by pressing Win + R, typing cmd, and pressing Enter.

  • Check the Python version:

    python --version

  • You should see something like:

    Python 3.13.2

  • Troubleshooting:

    • If you see an error like:

      'python' is not recognized as an internal or external command, operable program or batch file.

    • It likely means you forgot to check Add Python to PATH. Re-run the installer or manually add Python to your system environment variables.

Install Python on macOS

Recommended Method

It's best to use the official Python installer for macOS:

Steps

  • Download the latest macOS installer from python.org.

  • Double-click the installer file.

  • Follow the on-screen instructions, clicking Next until the installation completes.

Note: macOS comes with a system version of Python 2.x, but you should always install and use the latest Python 3.x for development.

Verify Installation

  • Open Terminal and run:

    python3 --version

  • You should see the installed version, e.g., Python 3.13.2.

Install Python on Linux

Most Linux distributions already come with Python 3 installed. Check first:

Check Existing Python Version

python3 --version

If Python 3 is installed, you'll see the version number. Otherwise, install it:

Install on Ubuntu/Debian

sudo apt update
sudo apt install python3.13

Replace 3.13 with the version you want if needed.

Install on Fedora

sudo dnf install python3

Install on Arch Linux

sudo pacman -S python

Summary

  • Windows, macOS, and Linux users can easily install Python by downloading the official installer or using a package manager.

  • Always install the latest Python 3 version (currently Python 3.13.x).

  • Remember to verify the installation by checking the Python version in your terminal or command prompt.

Now that Python is installed, you're ready to start coding!

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