🚀 Installing Python on Windows 11 in 2025: A Simple Guide for Beginners

Python remains one of the most popular programming languages today because it’s easy to learn and incredibly versatile. If you’re new to coding and want to start with Python on Windows 11, the first step is to get a clean and proper installation. While Windows 11 offers a Microsoft Store version of Python, it’s often better to use the official installer from python.org for full control and compatibility.

Here’s a straightforward guide to help you install Python on Windows 11, so you can start coding without headaches.

Download the Official Installer

Head to python.org/downloads. The site usually detects your operating system and highlights the latest stable version for Windows. For example, you might see “Download Python 3.12.3”. Click the button to download the installer (python-3.12.3-amd64.exe).

Why use the official installer and not the Microsoft Store version? The Store version can be limited in functionality, especially when you want to install additional packages, work with certain development tools, or run scripts from the command line smoothly. The official installer gives you full access to all features and better control.

Running the Installer

Once the installer file downloads, double-click it to start. The very first thing to do is check the box “Add Python to PATH” at the bottom of the window. This step is crucial because it lets you run Python from any terminal window without extra configuration.

Next, choose Customize installation instead of “Install Now.” Keep all the default optional features checked, like pip (Python’s package manager), IDLE (the basic Python editor), and documentation.

On the advanced options page, you can leave most settings as they are. You might want to select Install for all users if you have administrator rights and want Python available for everyone on your PC. Click Install and wait for the process to finish.

Verify Your Installation

After installation, open the Windows Terminal by pressing Win + X and selecting Terminal. Type:

python --version
pip --version

If everything installed correctly, you’ll see the Python version number and pip’s version. If the commands aren’t recognized, try closing and reopening the terminal or rerunning the installer to repair the installation.

Setting Up a Virtual Environment (Recommended)

Virtual environments help keep your Python projects organized by isolating package installations. Inside your project folder, run:

python -m venv .venv
.\.venv\Scripts\activate

Your terminal prompt will change to indicate you’re inside the virtual environment. Any package you install with pip here won’t affect other projects. When finished, type deactivate to exit.

Choose an Editor

You’ll want a good editor or Integrated Development Environment (IDE) to write Python code. Popular choices include:

  • VS Code: Fast, customizable, with many useful extensions.

  • PyCharm Community Edition: Feature-rich, great for bigger projects.

  • Thonny: Simple and beginner-friendly.

Quick Troubleshooting Tips

  • If python isn’t recognized, restart your terminal or check if Python’s install folder is added to your PATH.

  • Use py -3.12 to specify Python versions if you have multiple installed.

  • For network issues, set proxy environment variables if needed.

  • Keep Windows updated to avoid SSL certificate errors during package installations.

Conclusion

Installing Python on Windows 11 doesn’t have to be complicated. By using the official installer and adding Python to your PATH, you’ll set yourself up for success and avoid common pitfalls. With Python ready, you can dive into coding, automate tasks, or build projects with confidence. Remember to keep your environments organized and explore the rich ecosystem of Python packages. Happy coding!