How to Install Python on Windows: A Step-by-Step Guide

Below is a detailed step-by-step guide to correctly install Python on a Windows computer. Whether you’re a complete beginner or you just need a refresher, this task is straightforward and easy to accomplish.

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Step-by-Step Guide: How to Install Python on Windows

Step 1: Download Python

1. Open your preferred browser and navigate to the official Python website:

   • Python Official Website: https://www.python.org/downloads/

2. Choose the version you want to install:

   • Recommended for beginners: Download the latest stable version (usually noted beneath "Download Python").
   • As of now, the latest stable version is Python 3.X.X. (Make sure to choose Python 3, as Python 2 is outdated.)

3. After choosing the version, click on the Download button. This downloads a Python installer file (e.g., python-3.12.0-amd64.exe).

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Step 2: Run the Python Installer

1. Locate the downloaded installer in your downloads folder (default path usually C:\Users\[Your Username]\Downloads).
2. Double-click on the downloaded installer file to start the installation process.

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Step 3: Customize Python Installation Options (VERY IMPORTANT)

When the install dialogue box appears, consider these steps carefully.

1. Before continuing, Click the checkbox at the bottom labeled:

   ✅ "Add Python to PATH"

   Note: This step ensures Python is accessible from the Windows Command Prompt and PowerShell.

2. After clicking the checkbox, choose one of the two setup methods:

   • Install Now: Quick installation with Python’s default settings (recommended for most users).
   • Customize Installation: Allows you to choose specific features and locations where Python will be installed (for advanced users who may have specific needs).

✓ Recommendation for beginners: select “Install Now”.

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Step 4: Proceed with Installation

1. After choosing "Install Now", installation will begin and progress status will be displayed.
2. The installation typically takes a couple of minutes.
3. Allow Python administrator privileges if prompted (simply click “Yes” if prompted).

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Step 5: Finish Python installation

1. Once the installation has finished successfully, a screen will appear noting that "Setup was successful."
2. Click the “Close” button at the end to complete setup.

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Step 6: Verify your Python Installation

It’s important to double-check that Python installed correctly:

1. Open the Command Prompt on Windows (type "cmd" into your search bar and click on the "Command Prompt" app or press Win + R and type cmd).

2. Type the following command and press Enter:
   bash
   python –version

3. You should see output similar to:

   Python 3.12.0

   indicating Python is installed and accessible via your command line.

4. Additionally, if you wish to check the Python package manager (pip), enter:
   bash
   pip –version

   You will get an output similar to:

   pip 23.0.1 from C:\Python312\lib\site-packages\pip (python 3.12)

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Step 7: (Optional) Testing Python IDLE (Integrated Development and Learning Environment)

Python comes with an integrated development environment called IDLE. It’s a simple Python editor.

1. Click the Windows Start Menu and type "IDLE".
2. Select and run the “IDLE Python” option.

3. A Python interactive shell window opens, and you can test entering some basic Python commands:

   python
   print("Hello, Python!")

4. Hit Enter and you should see the message printed out, verifying everything works properly.

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Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Cannot access Python from Command Prompt?

  • You may have forgotten to select "Add Python to PATH" during installation.
  • Solution:

    • You could reinstall Python (quickest solution).
    • Alternatively, manually add Python to PATH in environment variables:
    • On the Windows search bar, type "Environment Variables".
    • Open "Edit the system environment variables" → "Environment Variables…".
    • Under "System Variables", find and select "Path" → "Edit" → "New"
    • Add the Python installation path (C:\Python312 or the folder where Python was installed) and the scripts path (C:\Python312\Scripts\).
    • Click "OK" and restart your Command Prompt afterward to apply changes.

• If the Python Installer does not start

  • Right-click on the installer file and select "Run as administrator".

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Congratulations!

You have successfully installed Python on your Windows computer! You are now ready to start coding, learning Python, and building your projects.

Happy coding! 🚀🐍