How to Update PYTHON3 on Linux
Python is a widely used programming language known for its simplicity and versatility. It is highly popular among developers due to its extensive libraries and frameworks that make development faster and more efficient. However, like any software, Python also requires periodic updates to ensure that you are using the latest features and security patches. In this article, we will guide you on how to update Python3 on Linux.
Before we begin, it’s important to note that Python2 is no longer supported, and Python3 is the recommended version for all new projects. Most Linux distributions come pre-installed with Python2 and Python3, but they might not have the latest version. Therefore, updating Python3 is crucial to benefit from the latest enhancements and bug fixes.
Here are the steps to update Python3 on Linux:
Step 1: Check the current version
Open your terminal and type the following command:
“`
python3 –version
“`
This will display the currently installed version of Python3. Make a note of it before proceeding to the next steps.
Step 2: Install the prerequisites
Updating Python3 on Linux may require some prerequisites to be installed. Use the package manager specific to your Linux distribution to install the necessary packages. For example, on Ubuntu, you can use the following command:
“`
sudo apt-get install build-essential zlib1g-dev libncurses5-dev libgdbm-dev libnss3-dev libssl-dev libsqlite3-dev libreadline-dev libffi-dev curl libbz2-dev
“`
Step 3: Download the latest version
Visit the official Python website (https://www.python.org/downloads/) and check for the latest stable release. You can find the download links for various platforms, including Linux. Click on the appropriate download link for your Linux distribution.
Alternatively, you can use the following command in the terminal to download the latest version:
“`
wget https://www.python.org/ftp/python/3.x.x/Python-3.x.x.tgz
“`
Replace `3.x.x` with the latest version number.
Step 4: Extract and compile
Once the download is complete, extract the downloaded file using the following command:
“`
tar -xf Python-3.x.x.tgz
“`
Next, navigate into the extracted directory:
“`
cd Python-3.x.x
“`
Now, configure and compile the Python source code by running:
“`
./configure –enable-optimizations
make -j
“`
Replace `
Step 5: Install the updated version
After the compilation is complete, install the updated version of Python3 by running:
“`
sudo make altinstall
“`
Using `make altinstall` instead of `make install` helps to prevent conflicts with the system-provided Python.
Step 6: Verify the installation
To verify that the update was successful, run the following command:
“`
python3 –version
“`
This should display the newly installed version of Python3.
FAQs:
Q1: Can I have multiple versions of Python on my Linux system?
A1: Yes, it is possible to have multiple versions of Python installed on your Linux system. By default, the system-provided Python version is used when you type `python` in the terminal. However, you can explicitly use a specific version by typing `python3.x` (replace `x` with the desired version number).
Q2: Will updating Python3 affect my existing projects?
A2: Updating Python3 should not affect your existing projects. Most projects are designed to be backward-compatible, meaning they will work with newer versions of Python3. However, it is always recommended to test your projects after updating Python to ensure compatibility.
Q3: Can I uninstall the previous version of Python3 after updating?
A3: It is generally not recommended to uninstall the previous version of Python3 as it might be in use by other system components or applications. Keeping the older version can help maintain stability and avoid any unforeseen issues.
In conclusion, updating Python3 on Linux is a straightforward process that involves downloading the latest version, compiling, and installing it. By following these steps, you can ensure that you are using the most up-to-date version of Python3, benefiting from the latest features and security patches. Remember to always check for compatibility with your existing projects and keep the older version installed to maintain stability. Happy coding!