Python Installation – Complete Beginner Guide

Python installation is the first step in your programming journey. If you want to build websites, automate tasks, analyze data, or develop AI applications, you must first install Python correctly.

This beginner-friendly Python installation guide will walk you step-by-step through installing Python on Windows, macOS, and Linux. By the end of this article, you’ll have Python installed and ready to use.

Let’s begin.

Why Python Installation Is Important

Before writing any Python program, your computer needs the Python interpreter. The interpreter reads your code and executes it line by line.

Without proper Python installation:

  • You cannot run Python scripts

  • You cannot use Python libraries

  • You cannot develop Python projects

So installing Python correctly is very important.

Download Python

The official and safest way for Python installation is through the official website:

👉 https://www.python.org/downloads/

Always download Python from the official site to avoid malware or modified versions.

The homepage automatically suggests the latest stable version.

Python Installation on Windows

Follow these simple steps carefully.

Step 1: Download the Installer

Click:

Download Python 3.x.x

It will download a .exe file.

Step 2: Run the Installer

Double-click the downloaded file.

  •  IMPORTANT:
    Before clicking Install, check this box:
  •  Add Python to PATH

This step is extremely important for successful Python installation.

Step 3: Click Install Now

Wait for the installation to complete.

You will see:

“Setup was successful”

Step 4: Verify Python Installation

Open Command Prompt:

Press:

 

Win + R → type cmd → Enter

//Now type:


python --version

//Or:

python3 --version

//If installed correctly, you’ll see:

Python 3.x.x

Congratulations! Python installation on Windows is complete.

Python Installation on macOS

macOS usually has Python 2 pre-installed. But you need Python 3.

Step 1: Download Python

Go to python.org and download the macOS installer.

Step 2: Run the .pkg File

Double-click the file and follow installation instructions.

Step 3: Verify Installation

Open Terminal and type:

python3 --version

You should see:

Python 3.x.x

Always use python3 on macOS.

Python Installation on Linux

Most Linux systems already have Python installed.

Check using:

 
python3 --version

If not installed, use:

For Ubuntu/Debian:

 
sudo apt update sudo apt install python3

For Fedora:

 
sudo dnf install python3

After installation, verify again.

How to Check if Python Is Installed Properly

After Python installation, test with a simple program.

Open Command Prompt or Terminal and type:

 
python

Or:

 
python3

You will enter interactive mode.

Now type:

 
print("Python is working!")

If you see output, your Python installation is successful.

Exit using:

 
exit()

Setting Up PATH (If Python Is Not Recognized)

Sometimes after Python installation, you see this error:

 
'python' is not recognized

This means Python is not added to system PATH.

Fixing PATH on Windows

  1. Search “Environment Variables”

  2. Click “Edit system environment variables”

  3. Click Environment Variables

  4. Edit PATH

  5. Add Python install directory

Example:

 
C:\Users\YourName\AppData\Local\Programs\Python\Python3x\

Restart CMD and try again.

Python Installation: Windows vs Mac vs Linux

FeatureWindowsmacOSLinux
Installer Type.exe.pkgPackage Manager
Python Pre-installedNoYes (old)Usually Yes
Commandpythonpython3python3
DifficultyEasyEasyEasy-Medium

Installing Python Using Microsoft Store (Windows Alternative)

You can also install Python from Microsoft Store.

Pros:

  • Automatic updates

  • Easy installation

Cons:

  • Less control over installation path

For beginners, official installer is recommended.

Common Python Installation Errors

Python Not Recognized

Solution:
Reinstall and check “Add Python to PATH”.

Permission Denied (Linux/Mac)

Solution:
Use sudo before installation command.

Multiple Python Versions Conflict

Solution:
Use:

python3

instead of python.

Beginner Tips for Smooth Python Installation

  • Always download from official website 
  • Use latest stable version
  •  Add Python to PATH
  • Verify installation immediately
  •  Install pip and virtualenv

FAQs – Python Installation

1. Is Python free to install?

Yes, Python installation is completely free and open source.

2. Which Python version should I install?

Install the latest stable Python 3 version.

3. Do I need internet after Python installation?

Only for installing libraries using pip.

4. Why is python command not working?

Python is not added to PATH. Reinstall and enable Add to PATH option.

5. Can I install multiple Python versions?

Yes, but manage carefully using virtual environments.