How to install Python in Windows?

Installing Python on Windows is straightforward. Follow these steps:


Step 1: Download Python Installer

  1. Go to the official Python website: https://www.python.org.
  2. Navigate to the Downloads section, and the site will usually suggest the latest Python version for Windows.
  3. Click the download link to download the Python installer.

Step 2: Run the Installer

  1. Locate the downloaded installer (it will likely be in your “Downloads” folder).
  2. Double-click the installer to launch it.

Step 3: Customize Installation (Optional but Recommended)

  1. Check the Box: On the first installation screen, check the box that says “Add Python X.X to PATH” (important for running Python from the command line).
  2. Click Customize installation if you want to adjust the installation settings. Otherwise, click Install Now for default settings.

Step 4: Complete the Installation

  1. Allow the installation to complete. If prompted for administrator permissions, click Yes.
  2. Once finished, you’ll see a setup success screen. Click Close.

Step 5: Verify the Installation

  1. Open the Command Prompt (search for cmd in the Start menu).
  2. Type the following command and press Enter:
python --version

You should see the installed Python version displayed.


Step 6: Install pip (Optional)

pip is Python’s package manager and is included in recent Python versions. To check if pip is installed, type:

pip --version

If not installed, you can install it using the Python installer or manually.


Step 7: Install an IDE (Optional)

For development, you may want an IDE like:

  • VS Code
  • PyCharm
  • IDLE (comes pre-installed with Python).