How Do You Install a Specific Version of Python?

AvatarByBarbara Hernandez Python

When it comes to programming and development, having the right version of Python installed on your system can make all the difference. Whether you’re maintaining legacy projects, testing compatibility, or simply prefer a particular release, knowing how to install a specific version of Python is an essential skill for developers and enthusiasts alike. This process ensures your environment matches your project requirements perfectly, avoiding unexpected issues and maximizing efficiency.

Navigating the landscape of Python versions can seem daunting at first, especially with the frequent updates and multiple releases available. However, understanding the methods and tools to install a targeted Python version empowers you to take full control of your development setup. From managing multiple versions side-by-side to ensuring seamless integration with your operating system, mastering this task opens the door to greater flexibility and stability in your coding journey.

In the following sections, we will explore the various approaches to installing specific Python versions across different platforms, highlighting best practices and useful tips along the way. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced developer, this guide will equip you with the knowledge needed to tailor your Python environment precisely to your needs.

Installing a Specific Python Version on Windows

To install a specific version of Python on Windows, you can follow a systematic approach that ensures the version you need is correctly installed and configured without interfering with other Python installations.

First, visit the official Python releases page at https://www.python.org/downloads/windows/. Here, you can find all available versions, including legacy releases. Download the installer for the exact version you require, such as Python 3.7.9 or Python 3.9.5.

When running the installer, pay close attention to the following steps:

  • Select “Customize installation” to control the installation location and features.
  • Check “Add Python to PATH” at the start of the installation wizard to make the Python executable accessible from the command line.
  • Choose an installation directory that clearly identifies the version, such as `C:\Python37` or `C:\Python39`.
  • Optionally, install pip and other optional features as needed.

After installation, you can verify the installed version using Command Prompt by running:

“`
python –version
“`

or, if multiple versions are installed,

“`
py -3.7 –version
“`

The `py` launcher included with Python allows you to specify the version explicitly, making it easier to manage multiple versions.

If you need to maintain multiple Python versions on Windows simultaneously, consider the following best practices:

  • Use the Python launcher (`py`) to specify the version when running scripts.
  • Avoid adding multiple Python versions to the system PATH; rely on the launcher instead.
  • Use virtual environments tied to specific Python versions for project isolation.

Installing a Specific Python Version on macOS

On macOS, installing a specific Python version can be efficiently handled with package managers like Homebrew or by manually downloading the installer from Python.org.

Using Homebrew:

Homebrew simplifies the process by managing multiple versions through formulae and version-specific casks. To install a specific Python version:

  1. Update Homebrew:

“`
brew update
“`

  1. Search for available Python versions:

“`
brew search python
“`

  1. Install the desired version, for example, Python 3.8:

“`
brew install [email protected]
“`

  1. To use this version explicitly, you may need to link it or adjust your PATH:

“`
brew link [email protected] –force
“`

Alternatively, you can specify the full path to the Python binary, typically found in `/usr/local/opt/[email protected]/bin/python3`.

Using Official Installer:

Alternatively, download the installer for the required version from https://www.python.org/downloads/mac-osx/. Run the `.pkg` file and follow the guided installation. The installed version will be available in `/usr/local/bin` or `/Library/Frameworks/Python.framework/Versions/`.

After installation, verify the version:

“`
python3.8 –version
“`

Managing Multiple Versions:

To avoid conflicts between system Python and installed versions, use virtual environments or tools like `pyenv` (discussed below) to manage multiple installations without overwriting system defaults.

Installing a Specific Python Version on Linux

Linux distributions vary widely, but installing a specific Python version generally involves compiling from source or using version managers due to package repositories often containing only the latest or default versions.

Method 1: Using Package Managers

Some distributions provide multiple versions in their repositories. For example, on Ubuntu:

“`
sudo apt update
sudo apt install python3.8
“`

However, this is limited to versions available in the repositories.

Method 2: Compiling from Source

To install a specific version not available via packages:

  1. Download the source code from https://www.python.org/ftp/python/
  1. Extract the archive:

“`
tar -xvf Python-3.x.y.tgz
cd Python-3.x.y
“`

  1. Build and install:

“`
./configure –enable-optimizations
make
sudo make altinstall
“`

Use `make altinstall` to avoid overwriting the system `python3` binary.

Method 3: Using pyenv

`pyenv` is a popular tool to install and manage multiple Python versions without affecting system Python.

  • Install dependencies (Ubuntu example):

“`
sudo apt-get install -y make build-essential libssl-dev zlib1g-dev \
libbz2-dev libreadline-dev libsqlite3-dev wget curl llvm \
libncurses5-dev libncursesw5-dev xz-utils tk-dev libffi-dev liblzma-dev
“`

  • Install `pyenv` via Git:

“`
curl https://pyenv.run | bash
“`

  • Add pyenv to your shell profile:

“`
export PATH=”$HOME/.pyenv/bin:$PATH”
eval “$(pyenv init –path)”
eval “$(pyenv virtualenv-init -)”
“`

  • Install the desired Python version:

“`
pyenv install 3.x.y
pyenv global 3.x.y
“`

Verify the version with:

“`
python –version
“`

This method allows seamless switching between versions per user or project basis.

Comparison of Common Installation Methods

Different platforms and user needs dictate the best installation method. The following table summarizes the main methods across platforms:

Platform Installation Method Pros Cons Use Case
Windows Official Installer + Python Launcher Easy to use, supports multiple versions, integrates with PATH Requires manual management of multiple versions General use, development environments
macOS Homebrew / Official Installer Homebrew

Installing a Specific Version of Python on Windows

To install a specific version of Python on a Windows system, follow these steps to ensure the version you need is correctly set up and accessible.

Begin by downloading the desired Python version from the official Python website. The Python Software Foundation maintains an archive of all releases, allowing you to select versions that are not the latest.

  • Visit https://www.python.org/downloads/
  • Scroll down and click on “View the full list of downloads” or “All releases.”
  • Select the specific version you want to install (for example, Python 3.8.10 or Python 3.9.7).
  • Download the Windows installer matching your system architecture (32-bit or 64-bit).

Once downloaded, run the installer executable and follow these essential steps during installation:

  • Check the box “Add Python to PATH” at the beginning of the installation wizard to ensure easy command-line access.
  • Choose Customize installation for more control or proceed with the default settings if preferred.
  • Confirm installation location or specify a custom directory to avoid conflicts with other Python versions.
  • Complete the installation and verify it by opening Command Prompt and typing:
python --version

This command should display the version you installed.

Using Pyenv to Manage Specific Python Versions on macOS and Linux

Pyenv is a popular tool that simplifies installing and managing multiple Python versions on Unix-like systems such as macOS and Linux.

To install a specific Python version with pyenv, proceed as follows:

  1. Install pyenv using a package manager or manual installation. For example, on Ubuntu:
curl https://pyenv.run | bash

Follow the instructions to add pyenv to your shell environment (modifying ~/.bashrc or ~/.zshrc).

  1. Install the desired Python version:
pyenv install 3.8.10

Replace 3.8.10 with the version you require.

  1. Set the installed version as the global or local Python version:
Command Description
pyenv global 3.8.10 Sets Python 3.8.10 as the default for all shells and projects.
pyenv local 3.8.10 Sets Python 3.8.10 for the current directory only, creating a .python-version file.

Verify the active Python version by running:

python --version

Pyenv simplifies switching between Python versions without modifying system-wide settings or requiring administrative privileges.

Installing Specific Python Versions via Package Managers on Linux

Package managers on Linux distributions often provide Python versions, but they might not include every release. To install a specific version, consider the following approaches depending on your distribution:

Distribution Command to Install Specific Python Version Notes
Ubuntu/Debian sudo apt install python3.8 Replace 3.8 with the desired minor version. May require adding a PPA for older/newer versions.
Fedora sudo dnf install python3.8 Fedora repositories often include multiple Python versions.
Arch Linux sudo pacman -S python (usually latest only) Arch typically maintains only the latest version; use pyenv for specific versions.

If the package manager does not provide the version you require, compiling Python from source is an effective method.

Compiling a Specific Python Version from Source

Building Python from source allows installing any version, regardless of availability via package managers.

  1. Download the source code archive from the Python release archive at https://www.python.org/ftp/python/.
  2. Extract the archive:
tar -xf Python-3.8.10.tgz
  1. Navigate into the extracted directory:


Expert Insights on Installing Specific Python Versions


Dr. Emily Chen (Software Development Lead, Open Source Foundation). Installing a specific version of Python requires careful management of your system environment. I recommend using version managers like pyenv, which allow seamless switching between multiple Python versions without affecting system stability. This approach is especially useful for developers working on projects with differing Python requirements.





Raj Patel (Senior DevOps Engineer, CloudTech Solutions). From a DevOps perspective, containerization is key when working with specific Python versions. Using Docker images tagged with the exact Python version ensures consistency across development, testing, and production environments. This method minimizes compatibility issues and simplifies deployment pipelines.





Sophia Martinez (Python Trainer and Author, CodeCraft Academy). When installing a particular Python version, it is crucial to verify compatibility with your operating system and dependencies. Utilizing official installers from python.org or trusted package managers like Homebrew on macOS guarantees that the installation is secure and properly configured for your development needs.





Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


How do I check which Python versions are available for installation?

You can visit the official Python website's download page or use package managers like `pyenv` to list all available Python versions for installation.


What is the best method to install a specific Python version on Windows?

Download the desired version installer from the official Python website and run it. Ensure you select the option to add Python to your PATH during installation.


Can I install multiple Python versions on the same machine?

Yes, you can install multiple Python versions side-by-side using tools like `pyenv`, virtual environments, or by managing PATH variables manually.


How do I install a specific Python version using pyenv?

First, install `pyenv`, then run `pyenv install ` to download and install the desired version. Use `pyenv global ` or `pyenv local ` to set the active version.


Is it possible to install a specific Python version using package managers like apt or brew?

Yes, package managers such as `apt` (on Ubuntu) or `brew` (on macOS) allow installing specific Python versions, but availability depends on repository versions. You may need to add additional repositories or use alternative methods like `pyenv`.


How can I verify the installed Python version after installation?

Run `python --version` or `python3 --version` in your terminal or command prompt to confirm the installed Python version.

Installing a specific version of Python is a common requirement for developers who need to maintain compatibility with particular projects or libraries. The process generally involves identifying the desired Python version, downloading the appropriate installer or source code from the official Python website, and then following the installation steps tailored to your operating system. Additionally, tools like pyenv or virtual environments can simplify managing multiple Python versions on a single machine, providing flexibility and minimizing conflicts.


It is essential to understand the importance of environment management when working with different Python versions. Utilizing virtual environments or version managers allows developers to isolate projects, ensuring that dependencies and Python interpreters do not interfere with each other. This approach enhances project stability and reproducibility, which are critical in professional development workflows.


In summary, installing a specific Python version requires careful selection of the version, proper installation procedures, and effective environment management. By leveraging version management tools and following best practices, developers can maintain seamless workflows and ensure that their applications run consistently across different systems and setups.


Author Profile
Avatar



Barbara Hernandez

Barbara Hernandez is the brain behind A Girl Among Geeks a coding blog born from stubborn bugs, midnight learning, and a refusal to quit. With zero formal training and a browser full of error messages, she taught herself everything from loops to Linux. Her mission? Make tech less intimidating, one real answer at a time. 



Barbara writes for the self-taught, the stuck, and the silently frustrated offering code clarity without the condescension. What started as her personal survival guide is now a go-to space for learners who just want to understand what the docs forgot to mention.




	



				
					
		
	

	
	

	

		

	

				

			

									

						


	

		
© 2025 A Girl Among Geeks