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This lesson shows how to download, install, and verify Python on a Windows PC. Follow the steps below to install a recent Python 3 release, enable the recommended options in the installer, and confirm the installation using the Command Prompt.

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1) Download the Windows installer

Open your browser and go to the official downloads page: https://python.org/downloads/ You should see the Windows downloads page with a prominent installer button similar to the example below:
A browser screenshot of the Python.org downloads page advertising "Download the latest version for Windows" with a prominent "Download Python 3.13.2" button. The page shows the Python logo and a decorative illustration of parachutes carrying wooden crates, plus a site navigation and search bar.
Notes:
  • The exact minor/patch version on the downloads page may differ (e.g., Python 3.13.x). Installing any recent Python 3 release is fine.
  • Download the Windows installer (an executable .exe).
Launch the downloaded installer to start the setup wizard and follow these recommended choices:
  • On the initial screen:
    • Enable Add Python to PATH (checkbox at the bottom of the window).
    • Optionally enable Install launcher for all users (recommended).
  • If you want Python available to every account on the PC:
    • Choose “Customize installation” → then select “Install for all users”. This will typically require administrator privileges and installs Python into Program Files.
  • Ensure pip is selected (it is selected by default).
  • Click Install and approve any Windows security prompt (UAC) by clicking Yes.
Installer options at a glance:
OptionWhat it doesRecommended
Add Python to PATHAdds python.exe and scripts folder to the system PATH so python is available in the terminalYes
Install launcher for all usersInstalls the py launcher for all accounts on the machineRecommended if you share the PC
Install for all usersInstalls Python under Program Files (requires admin)Optional — use for shared systems
pipPackage installer for PythonYes — required for installing packages
The installer will show progress while configuring Python. When it finishes, click Close.

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3) Verify the installation

You can either restart your PC to refresh system environment variables or open a new Command Prompt window (a new process picks up the updated PATH). Then verify with the following command: 
C:\Users\You>python --version
Python 3.13.2
A restart is not strictly necessary in most cases—opening a new Command Prompt is usually sufficient for the updated PATH to be available. Restarting is a safe step if you encounter PATH-related issues.
Example: search for Command Prompt on Windows:
A Windows 11 desktop screenshot showing the Start/search panel with "Command Prompt" highlighted and several "cmd" search suggestions. A "Verify account" popup appears in the search pane, with Recycle Bin at the top-left and the taskbar along the bottom.
If the command prints the Python version (for example, Python 3.13.2), Python and the PATH configuration are correct.

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Quick troubleshooting tips

  • If python --version shows an error or a different Python version:
    • Close and reopen the Command Prompt, or log out/in.
    • Confirm you selected Add Python to PATH during installation.
    • Use the full path (e.g., “C:\Program Files\Python313\python.exe”) to confirm installation location.
  • If pip is missing, rerun the installer and ensure the pip option is selected.

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