How to Update Python: A Comprehensive Guide

Key Takeaways

1. Regularly updating Python ensures better performance and security.
2. Python can be updated differently on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
3. Homebrew (macOS) and APT (Linux) simplify version management.

Python is a versatile and widely-used programming language. Regularly updating Python ensures access to the latest features, security patches, and performance improvements. This guide provides step-by-step instructions to update Python on Windows, macOS, and Linux systems.

Checking Your Current Python Version

Before updating, it's essential to know your current Python version:

1. Open the command line interface:

   • Windows: Open Command Prompt.
   • macOS/Linux: Open Terminal.

2. Check the Python version:

   • Type python --version or python3 --version and press Enter.
   • The installed Python version will be displayed.

Updating Python on Windows

There are two primary methods to update Python on Windows: using the official installer or via the Microsoft Store.

Method 1: Using the Official Installer

1. Download the latest installer:

   • Visit the official Python website.
   • Download the latest stable version suitable for your system (e.g., Windows installer 64-bit).

2. Run the installer:

   • Locate the downloaded file and double-click to run it.
   • In the installer, check the box labeled "Add Python to PATH."
   • Click "Install Now" and follow the on-screen instructions.

3. Verify the installation:

   • Open Command Prompt.
   • Type python --version and press Enter.
   • Confirm that the displayed version matches the one you installed.

Method 2: Using the Microsoft Store

1. Open the Microsoft Store:

   • Click on the Start menu and open the Microsoft Store.

2. Search for Python:

   • In the search bar, type "Python" and press Enter.
   • Select the latest version provided by the Python Software Foundation.

3. Install Python:

   • Click "Get" to download and install Python.

4. Verify the installation:

   • Open Command Prompt.
   • Type python --version and press Enter.
   • Ensure the displayed version matches the one you installed.

Note: The Microsoft Store version handles PATH settings automatically and provides automatic updates.

Updating Python on macOS

On macOS, you can update Python using the official installer or Homebrew.

Method 1: Using the Official Installer

1. Download the latest installer:

   • Visit the official Python website.
   • Download the latest macOS 64-bit universal2 installer.

2. Run the installer:

   • Locate the downloaded .pkg file and double-click to open it.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.

3. Verify the installation:

   • Open Terminal.
   • Type python3 --version and press Enter.
   • Confirm that the displayed version matches the one you installed.

Note: macOS comes with a pre-installed version of Python used by the system. It's advisable not to modify or remove the system's default Python version, as it may affect system functionalities.

Method 2: Using Homebrew

1. Install Homebrew (if not already installed):

   • Open Terminal.
   • Type the following command and press Enter:

     /bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh)"
     

2. Update Homebrew:

   • In Terminal, type:

     brew update
     

   • Press Enter.

3. Upgrade Python:

   • Type the following command and press Enter:

     brew upgrade python
     

4. Verify the installation:

   • Type:

     python3 --version
     

   • Press Enter and ensure the displayed version is the latest.

Note: Homebrew simplifies the management of software packages on macOS and is a preferred method for many developers.

Updating Python on Linux

Linux distributions often come with Python pre-installed. Updating Python can vary based on the distribution.

Using APT on Ubuntu/Debian

1. Add the deadsnakes PPA:

   • Open Terminal.
   • Type the following commands and press Enter after each:

     sudo add-apt-repository ppa:deadsnakes/ppa
     sudo apt update
     

2. Install the latest Python version:

   • Type:

     sudo apt install python3.13
     

   • Press Enter.

3. Verify the installation:

   • Type:

     python3.13 --version
     

   • Press Enter and ensure the displayed

FAQs

Do I need to uninstall the old version before updating Python?

No, the installer usually replaces or coexists with older versions safely.

Why does python --version still show the old version after updating?

Your system may be referencing an old version; check your PATH settings.

Is it safe to update Python on macOS or Linux when the OS uses Python internally?

Yes, but avoid replacing the system default Python—install new versions separately.

We are Leapcell, your top choice for hosting Python projects.

Leapcell is the Next-Gen Serverless Platform for Web Hosting, Async Tasks, and Redis:

Multi-Language Support

• Develop with Node.js, Python, Go, or Rust.

Deploy unlimited projects for free

• pay only for usage — no requests, no charges.

Unbeatable Cost Efficiency

• Pay-as-you-go with no idle charges.
• Example: $25 supports 6.94M requests at a 60ms average response time.

Streamlined Developer Experience

• Intuitive UI for effortless setup.
• Fully automated CI/CD pipelines and GitOps integration.
• Real-time metrics and logging for actionable insights.

Effortless Scalability and High Performance

• Auto-scaling to handle high concurrency with ease.
• Zero operational overhead — just focus on building.

Explore more in the Documentation!

Follow us on X: @LeapcellHQ