How to Check if Python Is Installed in Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

Python is one of the most popular programming languages today, powering everything from web development to data science and artificial intelligence. If you’re setting up your computer for coding, one of the first steps is ensuring Python is properly installed.

But how do you check if Python is installed in Windows 11? Don’t worry — this step-by-step guide will walk you through different methods, from using the Command Prompt and PowerShell to checking installation paths and environment variables.

Whether you’re a beginner just starting with coding or an experienced developer troubleshooting your setup, this guide has you covered.

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📝 Key Takeaways (Summary)

• You can check if Python is installed on Windows 11 using Command Prompt, PowerShell, or Windows Search.

• Running commands like python --version or py --version quickly reveals if Python is installed.

• If Python is not installed, you can download it from the official Python website or the Microsoft Store.

• Always verify that Python is added to the PATH environment variable for smooth usage in terminals.

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Why Do You Need to Check Python Installation?

Before diving in, let’s answer the obvious question: why bother checking?

• Avoid errors — Running Python scripts requires the interpreter. If it’s missing, you’ll get errors.

• Confirm versions — Many projects need specific versions (e.g., Python 3.9 vs 3.11).

• Troubleshoot issues — Sometimes, Python is installed but not configured in the PATH.

• Get started quickly — Checking ensures your system is ready for programming, data analysis, or automation.

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Different Ways to Check if Python Is Installed in Windows 11

There are multiple ways to verify Python installation, depending on your preference. Let’s go through them step by step.

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Method 1: Check via Command Prompt

This is the most common and reliable way.

Steps:

1. Press Win + S and type cmd.

2. Click Command Prompt to open it.

3. Type the following command and press Enter:

   python --version


   or

   python -V


4. If Python is installed, you’ll see something like:

   Python 3.11.6


👉 If you get an error like “Python is not recognized”, it means either Python isn’t installed or it’s not added to PATH.

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Method 2: Use the py Command

On many Windows setups, Python is installed with a launcher.

Steps:

1. Open Command Prompt.

2. Type:

   py --version


3. If Python is installed, you’ll see its version number.

✅ This works even when python is not recognized, making it a handy alternative.

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Method 3: Check with PowerShell

If you prefer PowerShell over Command Prompt, you can use the same commands.

Steps:

1. Press Win + X → choose Windows Terminal (PowerShell).

2. Type:

   python --version


   or

   py --version


3. You’ll see the installed version if Python is set up correctly.

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Method 4: Search Installed Apps in Windows

Windows 11 lets you quickly check installed apps from the Settings menu.

Steps:

1. Press Win + I to open Settings.

2. Go to Apps → Installed apps.

3. Scroll or use the search bar to look for Python.

4. If installed, you’ll see an entry like Python 3.x (64-bit).

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Method 5: Check Python Installation Path

Sometimes, Python may be installed but not added to the PATH. Here’s how to locate it manually.

Steps:

1. Open File Explorer.

2. Navigate to:

   C:\Users\<YourUsername>\AppData\Local\Programs\Python


3. Look for folders like Python39, Python310, or Python311.

👉 If you find them, Python is installed but may not be configured in PATH.

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Method 6: Verify PATH Environment Variable

For Python to work globally in Command Prompt or PowerShell, it must be in the PATH.

Steps:

1. Press Win + S and type environment variables.

2. Click Edit the system environment variables.

3. In the System Properties window, click Environment Variables.

4. Under System variables, select Path → click Edit.

5. Look for entries pointing to a Python folder, such as:

   C:\Users\<YourUsername>\AppData\Local\Programs\Python\Python311\


If present, Python is installed and correctly configured.

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What If Python Is Not Installed?

If none of the methods show Python, you’ll need to install it.

Option 1: Install from Python.org

• Go to python.org/downloads.

• Download the latest Windows installer.

• During installation, check “Add Python to PATH”.

Option 2: Install from Microsoft Store

• Open Microsoft Store.

• Search for Python 3.x.

• Click Get to install.

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Comparison of Methods

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Troubleshooting Tips

• Error: “Python is not recognized” → Python isn’t installed or PATH isn’t set.

• Multiple versions installed → Use py -0 to list them.

• Wrong version running → Set default version using the py launcher or adjust PATH order.

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FAQs

1. How do I know if Python is installed on Windows 11?

Run python --version or py --version in Command Prompt or PowerShell.

2. Can I have multiple versions of Python installed?

Yes. Windows supports multiple versions. Use the py launcher to switch between them.

3. Why does python not work but py does?

It means the Python executable isn’t in PATH, but the Python launcher (py) is installed.

4. Do I need admin rights to install Python?

Not always. You can install it in your user directory without admin privileges.

5. Is it better to install Python from the Microsoft Store or Python.org?

Python.org is recommended for developers since it gives you more control. The Microsoft Store version is easier for beginners.

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Final Thoughts

Checking if Python is installed in Windows 11 is quick and straightforward. From the Command Prompt and PowerShell to searching in Installed Apps or verifying environment variables, you have plenty of options.

If Python isn’t installed, downloading it takes just a few minutes — and once it’s set up, you’ll be ready to dive into coding, automation, or data science. 🚀