How to Download Python on Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

By / September 16, 2025

Python is one of the most popular programming languages in the world — used in everything from web development and automation to data science and artificial intelligence. If you’re running Windows 11 and want to start coding in Python, the first step is simple: download and install it correctly.

In this guide, we’ll walk through how to download Python on Windows 11 step by step. We’ll also cover why you need Python, common installation issues, and best practices to ensure your setup works smoothly.

By the end, you’ll not only have Python installed but also be ready to run your very first script.

📝 Key Takeaways

  • You can download Python on Windows 11 directly from the official Python website or via the Microsoft Store.

  • Installation requires selecting the right version (usually the latest stable release).

  • Don’t forget to add Python to PATH during installation for easier access in the Command Prompt.

  • You can verify the installation using python --version or py --version.

  • Tools like IDLE, VS Code, or PyCharm make Python coding more efficient.

Why Download Python on Windows 11?

Before we dive into the “how,” let’s answer the “why.”

Python is:

  • Beginner-friendly – Its syntax is simple, readable, and great for newcomers.

  • Versatile – From automation scripts to full-blown machine learning models.

  • Widely supported – Countless libraries and frameworks are available.

  • Cross-platform – Write once, run anywhere: Windows, macOS, or Linux.

So, whether you’re a student, hobbyist, or professional developer, having Python installed on your Windows 11 PC unlocks endless possibilities.

What You’ll Need Before Installing Python

Here are the minimum things you should have ready:

  • A Windows 11 PC with administrator access.

  • A stable internet connection to download Python.

  • At least 100 MB of free disk space (Python itself is lightweight).

  • Basic knowledge of using the Command Prompt (don’t worry, we’ll guide you).

Step 1: Check If Python Is Already Installed on Windows 11

Windows 11 doesn’t come with Python pre-installed, but it’s worth checking first.

  1. Press Win + R, type cmd, and hit Enter.

  2. In the Command Prompt, type:

    python --version

    or

    py --version

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

    Python 3.11.5

  4. If not, you’ll get an error or be redirected to the Microsoft Store.

Step 2: Choose Where to Download Python

There are two safe and official ways:

Option 1: Python.org (Recommended)

✅ Pros: Always the newest version, full installer, all features.
❌ Cons: Manual installation required.

Option 2: Microsoft Store

  • Open the Microsoft Store on Windows 11.

  • Search for “Python” and install the version you want.

✅ Pros: Quick and easy, automatic updates.
❌ Cons: Limited customization, not always the latest release.

Step 3: Download Python Installer from Python.org

If you choose Python.org (most developers do), follow these steps:

  1. Go to python.org/downloads/windows.

  2. Under “Stable Releases,” click the latest Python 3.x.x.

  3. Scroll down and choose Windows Installer (64-bit) — since most Windows 11 PCs are 64-bit.

  4. The .exe file will begin downloading.

Step 4: Run the Python Installer

Now that you have the installer:

  1. Locate the downloaded file (usually in Downloads).

  2. Double-click the installer.

  3. On the first screen, check the box:

    ✅ Add Python 3.x to PATH

    (This is crucial! It lets you run Python from the Command Prompt.)

  4. Click Install Now.

Step 5: Verify Python Installation on Windows 11

After installation:

  1. Open Command Prompt.

  2. Type:

    python --version

    or

    py --version

  3. You should see the installed version number. 🎉

Step 6: Test Python with a Simple Program

Let’s confirm everything works by writing your first Python script:

  1. Open Notepad.

  2. Type the following:

    print("Hello, Windows 11!")

  3. Save the file as hello.py on your Desktop.

  4. Open Command Prompt and navigate to your Desktop:

    cd Desktop

  5. Run the script:

    python hello.py

  6. If you see Hello, Windows 11!, congratulations — Python is working!

Step 7: Install pip (If Not Already Installed)

Most Python installers include pip (Python’s package manager). To check:

pip --version

If it shows a version number, pip is ready. If not:

  1. Download get-pip.py from the official pip documentation.

  2. Run:

    python get-pip.py

Now you can install libraries like NumPy, Pandas, or Flask.

Step 8: Choose an IDE or Code Editor

Python can run in Command Prompt, but coding is easier with an IDE. Popular choices:

  • IDLE (comes with Python by default).

  • Visual Studio Code (VS Code) – Lightweight and powerful.

  • PyCharm – Great for larger projects.

  • Jupyter Notebook – Perfect for data science.

Step 9: Set Up Environment Variables (If Needed)

If Python commands don’t work, you may need to manually set PATH:

  1. Search Environment Variables in Windows search.

  2. Click Edit the system environment variables.

  3. Under System Properties > Advanced > Environment Variables.

  4. In Path, click Edit, then New.

  5. Add the Python installation path, e.g.:

    C:\Users\YourName\AppData\Local\Programs\Python\Python311\

  6. Restart Command Prompt and test again.

Step 10: Keep Python Updated

Python updates often bring security fixes and performance improvements.

To update:

  1. Download the latest installer from python.org.

  2. Run it — it will automatically update your existing installation.

Common Problems When Installing Python on Windows 11

Problem Cause Solution
python not recognized PATH not set Reinstall or set PATH manually
pip not found pip not installed Run python -m ensurepip
Wrong version running Multiple installs Use py -3.12 or specify full path
Permission denied No admin rights Run installer as Administrator

Tips for Beginners After Installing Python

  • Start small: try simple projects like a calculator or a to-do list.

  • Use pip to install libraries that expand Python’s abilities.

  • Bookmark the Python documentation.

  • Explore coding tutorials on platforms like Codecademy, freeCodeCamp, or YouTube.

Conclusion

Installing Python on Windows 11 is straightforward once you know the steps:

  1. Check if Python is already installed.

  2. Download from Python.org or Microsoft Store.

  3. Run the installer and add Python to PATH.

  4. Verify installation and run a test script.

  5. Set up pip, editors, and environment variables if needed.

Now that Python is ready, you can start building projects, automating tasks, or diving into data science. Remember — learning Python is like learning a new language: the more you practice, the more fluent you become. 🚀

FAQs About Downloading Python on Windows 11

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

2. Should I download Python from the Microsoft Store or Python.org?
Python.org is recommended for developers since it provides the latest version and more customization options.

3. What’s the difference between Python 32-bit and 64-bit on Windows 11?
Most modern PCs run 64-bit Windows 11, so you should choose the 64-bit installer for better performance.

4. Can I install multiple versions of Python on Windows 11?
Yes. You can install different versions side by side and use the py launcher to select which one to run.

5. How do I uninstall Python from Windows 11?
Go to Settings > Apps > Installed Apps, find Python, and click Uninstall.

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