How to Install Python on Linux: A Complete Guide

Imagine you want to learn programming or build applications, and everyone tells you to use Python because it is beginner-friendly. You download Python and realize you need to install it on your computer. If you use Linux, the process is straightforward but might seem confusing if you have never done it before.

Installing Python in Linux is one of the most common tasks for developers and students. Linux comes with Python pre-installed in most cases, but you might want the latest version or need multiple Python versions for different projects. Learning how to install Python in Linux is essential whether you are a beginner or an experienced developer.

If you are using Linux, learning to code, or setting up a development environment, this guide walks you through everything you need to know about how to install Python in Linux.

Quick TL;DR Summary

1. This guide explains how to install Python in Linux through multiple methods including using package managers, installing from source, and managing multiple Python versions.
   
2. You will learn the differences between Python 2 and Python 3, why you should use Python 3, and how to check which version you already have installed.
   
3. Step-by-step instructions show you how to use package managers like apt (Ubuntu/Debian), yum (CentOS/RHEL), and pacman (Arch Linux) to install Python with single commands.
   
4. You will understand how to verify your installation, set up pip (Python package manager), create virtual environments, and manage multiple Python versions using tools like pyenv.
   
5. Practical troubleshooting tips help you solve common installation problems and get your Python development environment working correctly.

Why Install Python in Linux?

1. Most Linux distributions come with Python

Many Linux systems come with Python 2 or Python 3 pre-installed. However, you might want the latest version, a specific version for compatibility, or multiple versions for different projects.

2. Python 2 is outdated

Python 2 reached end-of-life in 2020. Most projects and learning materials use Python 3. Even if your system has Python installed, it might be an old version you should update.

3. Development requires specific versions

Different projects need different Python versions. Installing multiple versions lets you switch between them based on project requirements.

4. Linux development environment

Linux is the preferred operating system for developers and server environments. Learning how to install Python in Linux sets you up for professional development work.

Check if Python Is Already Installed

1. Opening the terminal

First, open your Linux terminal. You can usually do this by pressing Ctrl + Alt + T or searching for “Terminal” in your application menu.

2. Checking Python version

Type this command to check if Python 3 is installed:

python3 –version

If Python is installed, you see the version number like “Python 3.10.12”. If you get “command not found”, Python 3 is not installed.

3. Checking for Python 2

Type this to check for Python 2:

python2 –version

Note: Python 2 is outdated. If you have only Python 2, you should install Python 3.

4. Checking pip version

Pip is Python’s package manager. Check if pip is installed:

pip3 –version

If pip is not installed, you will need to install it along with Python.

Read More: Understand Python and setup Python Development Environment

Installing Python in Linux

Method 1: Using apt (Ubuntu and Debian)

This is the easiest method for Ubuntu and Debian-based distributions.

Step 1: Update package manager

sudo apt update

This downloads the latest package information.

Step 2: Install Python 3

sudo apt install python3

Step 3: Verify installation

python3 –version

Method 2: Using yum (CentOS and RHEL)

For CentOS, RHEL, and Red Hat based systems.

Step 1: Install Python 3

sudo yum install python3

Step 2: Verify installation

python3 –version

Method 3: Using pacman (Arch Linux)

For Arch Linux and Arch-based distributions.

Step 1: Install Python 3

sudo pacman -S python

Step 2: Verify installation

python –version

Note: Arch Linux calls it “python” instead of “python3”.

Method 4: Installing from source

For the absolute latest Python version or custom installation.

Step 1: Download Python source

cd /tmp

wget https://www.python.org/ftp/python/3.12.0/Python-3.12.0.tgz

Replace 3.12.0 with the version you want.

Step 2: Extract the archive

tar -xzf Python-3.12.0.tgz

cd Python-3.12.0

Step 3: Configure and install

./configure –prefix=$HOME/python-3.12

make

make install

Step 4: Add to PATH

export PATH=$HOME/python-3.12/bin:$PATH

Installing pip (Package Manager)

1. What is pip?

Pip is Python’s package manager. It lets you install libraries and tools for your Python projects. Most Python installations include pip, but you might need to install it separately.

2. Installing pip for Python 3

sudo apt install python3-pip

For other distributions, replace “apt” with your package manager.

3. Verifying pip installation

pip3 –version

4. Using pip to install packages

Once pip is installed, you can install Python packages:

pip3 install package_name

For example, to install a web framework:

pip3 install flask

Managing Multiple Python Versions

1. Installing multiple Python versions

You can have multiple Python versions installed simultaneously.

sudo apt install python3.9 python3.10 python3.11 python3.12

Check which versions are installed:

python3.9 –version

python3.10 –version

python3.11 –version

python3.12 –version

2. Using update-alternatives for default version

Make one version the default:

sudo update-alternatives –install /usr/bin/python3 python3 /usr/bin/python3.9 1

sudo update-alternatives –install /usr/bin/python3 python3 /usr/bin/python3.10 2

Switch between versions:

sudo update-alternatives –config python3

3. Using pyenv for version management

Pyenv is a tool that makes managing multiple Python versions easy.

Install pyenv:

curl https://pyenv.run | bash

Install a specific Python version:

pyenv install 3.11.0

Set a version as default:

pyenv global 3.11.0

Switch versions per project:

cd my_project

pyenv local 3.9.0

Creating Virtual Environments

1. What is a virtual environment?

A virtual environment is an isolated Python installation for a specific project. It lets different projects use different Python versions and package versions without conflicts.

2. Creating a virtual environment

python3 -m venv my_project_env

This creates a folder called “my_project_env” with an isolated Python setup.

3. Activating a virtual environment

source my_project_env/bin/activate

Your terminal prompt changes to show the environment is active.

4. Installing packages in virtual environment

With the virtual environment activated:

pip install package_name

Packages install only in this environment, not globally.

5. Deactivating virtual environment

deactivate

Your terminal returns to normal mode.

Verifying Your Installation

1. Running a simple Python program

Create a file called “hello.py”:

nano hello.py

Type this code:

print(“Hello, Python!”)

Press Ctrl + X, then Y, then Enter to save.

Run the program:

python3 hello.py

You should see “Hello, Python!” printed.

2. Using Python interactive mode

Type this to enter interactive Python mode:

python3

Try commands:

>>> print(“Testing Python”)

>>> 5 + 3

>>> exit()

Press Ctrl + D or type exit() to exit.

3. Checking pip installation

Verify pip works:

pip3 list

This shows all installed packages.

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Conclusion

Installing Python in Linux is straightforward once you understand the process. Most distributions provide Python through package managers, making installation a single command away.

The easiest method is using your distribution’s package manager (apt, yum, or pacman). For latest versions or specific needs, install from source using pyenv.

Always create virtual environments for projects to avoid package conflicts. This is a best practice that will save you debugging time later.

Verify your installation by running simple Python programs and checking versions. Once Python is installed and working, you can start learning programming or develop applications.

FAQs

1. Which Python version should I install?

Install Python 3, preferably the latest stable version. Python 2 is outdated and no longer supported. Most learning materials and projects use Python 3.

2. Why do I get “python: command not found”?

Python might not be in your PATH, or it is not installed. Try “python3” instead of “python”. If that does not work, install Python using your package manager.

3. Can I have Python 2 and Python 3 together?

Yes, you can install both. Use “python2” for Python 2 and “python3” for Python 3. However, Python 2 is outdated, so focus on Python 3.

4. What is the difference between apt and pip?

apt is your Linux distribution’s package manager for system software. pip is Python’s package manager for Python packages and libraries. Use apt to install Python itself, use pip to install Python packages.

5. Do I need virtual environments?

Virtual environments are strongly recommended. They keep projects isolated, preventing package conflicts. Start using them from the beginning.