Python on Windows Setup

Install Python 3.12.3 on Windows

1. 1. Download Python 3.12.x

   Download Python from the official Python 3.12.3 release page. Python 3.12.x is acceptable, but Python 3.12.3 is preferred to match the UTCS machines.

   https://www.python.org/downloads/release/python-3123/

   Select the installer for your Windows computer, download it, and double-click it to begin the installation.

2. 2. Install Python

   Follow the installer prompts. During installation, check the box labeled Add python.exe to PATH if it appears.

   Your Python installation directory may look like:

   C:\Users\<yourusername>\AppData\Local\Programs\Python\Python312

   If you installed Python from the Microsoft Store, you may also see a path like:

   C:\Users\<yourusername>\AppData\Local\Microsoft\WindowsApps

   Note: WindowsApps is usually a launcher location, not the main Python installation directory.

3. 3. Add Python to PATH

   To run Python from the Windows command prompt or terminal, add the Python folders to your PATH environment variable.

   The paths usually look like:

   C:\Users\<yourusername>\AppData\Local\Programs\Python\Python312

   C:\Users\<yourusername>\AppData\Local\Programs\Python\Python312\Scripts

   1. Search for Edit environment variables for your account
   2. Select Path under User variables.
   3. Click Edit, then New.
   4. Add the Python folder.
   5. Add the Python Scripts folder.
   6. Click OK to save.

   Note: Add the folder paths to PATH, not the individual python.exe file.

4. 4. Check the installation

   Open a new Windows command prompt or terminal and run:

   where python
   python --version

   The output should show the path to Python and the installed version:

   C:\Users\<yourusername>\AppData\Local\Programs\Python\Python312\python.exe
   Python 3.12.3

   If you see a different Python 3.12.x version, that is usually fine for this course.