How to Install Python in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 1, 2025

If you’ve recently upgraded to Windows 11 and want to start coding with Python, you’re in the right place. Python is one of the most popular programming languages today—whether you’re learning coding basics, building AI applications, or diving into web development. But before you can create amazing projects, you’ll need to install Python properly on your Windows 11 computer.

In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through everything: downloading, installing, verifying, and even setting up Python for smooth development. Ready? Let’s get started!

Why Install Python on Windows 11?

Before jumping into the installation steps, let’s quickly cover why Python is worth your time.

  • Beginner-friendly – Its syntax is clean and easy to understand.
  • Versatile – You can use it for web development, data science, automation, and more.
  • Huge community – You’ll never feel stuck; there’s always help online.
  • Works with Windows 11 seamlessly – With the latest updates, Python integrates nicely with Microsoft’s OS.

In short, Python is like the Swiss Army knife of programming—it has a tool for almost everything.

Step 1: Check If Python Is Already Installed

Some Windows 11 setups already come with Python pre-installed. Here’s how to check:

  1. Press Windows + R to open the Run box.
  2. Type cmd and hit Enter.
  3. In the Command Prompt, type: python --version
  4. If Python is installed, you’ll see the version number.
  5. If not, you’ll get an error message like “Python is not recognized…”.

👉 If you don’t see Python installed, don’t worry—we’ll get it up and running in no time.

Step 2: Download Python for Windows 11

Now it’s time to grab the latest version of Python.

  1. Open your browser and go to the official Python website: python.org.
  2. Hover over the Downloads tab.
  3. Click on Windows.
  4. Select the latest stable version (e.g., Python 3.x.x).

⚡ Tip: Always download from the official website to avoid viruses or outdated builds.

Step 3: Run the Installer

Once the file is downloaded, let’s install it:

  1. Double-click the installer file (it usually looks like python-3.x.x-amd64.exe).
  2. At the bottom of the setup screen, check the box that says:
    • “Add Python 3.x to PATH”
      This step is crucial—it allows you to use Python directly from the Command Prompt.
  3. Click on Install Now.

That’s it! The installer will do the heavy lifting.

Step 4: Verify Python Installation

Now that Python is installed, let’s confirm everything worked:

  1. Open the Command Prompt again.
  2. Type: python --version
  3. You should now see the version number, confirming Python is ready.

Step 5: Install pip (Python’s Package Manager)

Most Python installers include pip automatically, but let’s check:

  1. In the Command Prompt, type: pip --version
  2. If you see a version number, pip is already installed.
  3. If not, you can install pip manually by downloading get-pip.py from the Python website and running it with: python get-pip.py

With pip, you can install external libraries and tools easily.

Step 6: Update pip

Even if pip is installed, it’s a good idea to update it to the latest version:

python -m pip install --upgrade pip

This ensures smooth installation of packages later.

Step 7: Test Python with a Simple Script

Let’s make sure everything is working with a test script:

  1. Open Notepad (or any code editor like VS Code).
  2. Type: print("Hello, Python on Windows 11!")
  3. Save the file as test.py.
  4. In Command Prompt, navigate to the file location and run: python test.py
  5. If you see the message, congratulations—you’re officially running Python on Windows 11! 🎉

Step 8: Install a Code Editor (Optional but Recommended)

Technically, you can write Python in Notepad. But let’s be real—using a professional editor makes life so much easier.

Popular Editors for Python

  • Visual Studio Code (VS Code) – Lightweight, free, and highly customizable.
  • PyCharm – A full-fledged IDE for Python.
  • Sublime Text – Minimalist and fast.

Pick one that feels comfortable. Personally, I recommend VS Code for beginners.

Step 9: Set Up Virtual Environments (Advanced Step)

If you plan to work on multiple projects, creating virtual environments will save you headaches.

  1. In Command Prompt, type: python -m venv myenv
  2. To activate it: myenv\Scripts\activate

This keeps project dependencies separate and avoids conflicts.

Step 10: Install Popular Python Packages

Once Python and pip are ready, you can start installing libraries. For example:

pip install numpy
pip install requests
pip install flask

These packages help you with data science, web development, and more.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even the smoothest installations can sometimes cause hiccups. Here are quick fixes:

Problem 1: “Python is not recognized”

  • Solution: Reinstall Python and make sure Add to PATH is checked.

Problem 2: Pip not working

  • Solution: Try running python -m ensurepip --default-pip.

Problem 3: Wrong Python version running

  • Solution: Check if multiple Python versions are installed. Use py -3.x to specify.

Benefits of Using Python on Windows 11

  • Full support – Microsoft has made Windows 11 more developer-friendly.
  • WSL integration – You can run Linux-based Python tools easily.
  • Efficiency – With pip and virtual environments, your workflow becomes smooth.

Best Practices After Installing Python

  • Keep Python updated (python -m pip install --upgrade python).
  • Use version control (like GitHub) for projects.
  • Explore frameworks like Django or Flask.
  • Practice daily with small projects.

Conclusion

Installing Python on Windows 11 is simple once you know the steps. From downloading the installer, adding it to PATH, verifying the installation, and setting up pip—you’re now ready to dive into the world of coding. With Python, the possibilities are endless: automation scripts, web apps, AI projects, and so much more.

So, what are you waiting for? Open your editor, write some code, and let Python unlock your creativity.

FAQs

1. Do I need admin rights to install Python on Windows 11?
Yes, in most cases you’ll need admin permissions to install and set PATH.

2. Can I install multiple versions of Python on Windows 11?
Absolutely! Just use the Python Launcher (py) to switch between versions.

3. Is Python free to use on Windows 11?
Yes, Python is completely free and open-source.

4. Do I need to install pip separately?
Not usually. Most modern installers come with pip pre-installed.

5. Which Python version should I install?
Always go for the latest stable version unless a specific project requires an older one.

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