Install Python 3.9 on Ubuntu 20.04: A Simple Guide

Shaun A
9 Min Read

Step-by-step guide to installing Python

Python 3.9 is the latest version of the popular programming language and comes with several new features and improvements. If you are using Ubuntu 20.04 and want to install Python 3.9, you can follow this step-by-step guide to ensure a smooth installation process.

Step-by-step guide to installing Python

Checking Current Python Version

Before installing Python 3.9, it’s essential to check the current version of Python installed on your system. You can do this by opening a terminal window and typing the following command:

python --version

This command will display the current version of Python installed on your Ubuntu 20.04 system.

Updating Package Lists

It’s a good practice to update the package lists for upgrades and new package installations. You can do this by running the following command:

sudo apt update

Installing Prerequisites

Python 3.9 requires some prerequisites to be installed on your system. You can install these prerequisites by running the following command:

sudo apt install software-properties-common

Adding DeadSnakes PPA

DeadSnakes PPA is a popular PPA that provides newer releases of Python versions. You can add the DeadSnakes PPA by running the following command:

sudo add-apt-repository ppa:deadsnakes/ppa

Installing Python 3.9

Once you have added the DeadSnakes PPA, you can install Python 3.9 by running the following commands:

sudo apt update
sudo apt install python3.9

Verifying Installation

To verify that Python 3.9 has been installed successfully, you can run the following command:

python3.9 --version

This command should display the Python 3.9 version number, confirming a successful installation.

Setting Python 3.9 as Default

If you want to set Python 3.9 as the default Python version on your system, you can create a symbolic link with the following commands:

sudo rm /usr/bin/python3
sudo ln -s /usr/bin/python3.9 /usr/bin/python3

By following these steps, you can install Python 3.9 on Ubuntu 20.04 successfully. Enjoy coding with the latest features and improvements offered by Python 3.9!

Potential Issues and Troubleshooting Tips During Python 3.9 Installation on Ubuntu 20.04

When installing Python 3.9 on Ubuntu 20.04, users may encounter a few common issues that can hamper the installation process. It is essential to be aware of these potential problems and have troubleshooting tips at hand to resolve them efficiently.

Dependency Errors:

One frequent issue that users face during Python 3.9 installation is dependency errors. This can occur if the necessary dependencies are not met or if there are conflicts with existing packages. To resolve this, ensure that all required dependencies are installed before attempting to install Python 3.9.

One way to address dependency errors is to use the package manager apt-get to install any missing dependencies. Running ‘sudo apt-get update’ followed by ‘sudo apt-get install -y build-essential zlib1g-dev libncurses5-dev libgdbm-dev libnss3-dev libssl-dev libreadline-dev libffi-dev’ can help alleviate dependency issues.

Permission Errors:

Permission errors can also arise during the Python 3.9 installation process, particularly when users do not have the necessary privileges to install packages. To combat this, it is advisable to use the sudo command before executing installation commands. For example, running ‘sudo make install’ instead of ‘make install’ can help bypass permission-related hurdles.

Path Configuration:

Another common stumbling block is misconfigured paths, leading to Python not being recognized or accessible system-wide. To rectify this, users should ensure that the path to the Python executable is correctly set in the system’s environmental variables. This can typically be done by editing the .bashrc or .profile file located in the user’s home directory.

Adding the following line to the .bashrc file can help resolve path configuration issues: ‘export PATH=”$PATH:/usr/local/bin/python3.9″‘. After saving the changes, users should run ‘source ~/.bashrc’ to apply the modifications.

Updating and Upgrading:

Before installing Python 3.9 on Ubuntu 20.04, it is crucial to update and upgrade the system to ensure compatibility and smooth installation. Users can achieve this by running ‘sudo apt-get update’ followed by ‘sudo apt-get upgrade’ to install the latest updates and upgrade existing packages.

By being mindful of these potential issues and employing the appropriate troubleshooting tips, users can navigate through the Python 3.9 installation process on Ubuntu 20.04 with ease and efficiency.

Key Takeaway:

In this comprehensive guide, you will learn how to install Python 3.9 on Ubuntu 20.04 in a detailed, step-by-step manner. From downloading Python 3.9 to setting it up on your Ubuntu 20.04 system, everything is covered to ensure a smooth installation process. Additionally, potential issues that may arise during the installation of Python 3.9 on Ubuntu 20.04 are discussed, along with effective troubleshooting tips to help you overcome these challenges. This article equips you with the knowledge and guidance needed to successfully install Python 3.9 on Ubuntu 20.04, empowering you to leverage the latest features and improvements offered by this version of Python on your Ubuntu system.

Conclusion

Installing Python 3.9 on Ubuntu 20.04 can be a straightforward process when following a detailed step-by-step guide. By carefully navigating through the installation process, users can ensure a successful setup of Python 3.9 on their Ubuntu system and leverage the latest features and enhancements offered by this programming language version.

While the installation process is generally smooth, users may encounter potential issues that could hamper the setup of Python 3.9 on Ubuntu 20.04. Some common problems involve compatibility issues with existing packages, dependency conflicts, or network-related issues during the installation. However, armed with troubleshooting tips and strategies such as double-checking dependencies, updating repositories, or resolving package inconsistencies, users can overcome these obstacles and complete the Python 3.9 installation successfully.

To get started with the installation process, users first need to update their package list and upgrade existing packages using the terminal. By executing specific commands, users can ensure that their system is up to date before proceeding with the Python 3.9 installation. Next, users should install prerequisites such as software properties common and add the deadsnakes PPA to their system, allowing them to access and install Python 3.9 seamlessly.

Once the prerequisites are in place, users can install Python 3.9 on their Ubuntu 20.04 system by running the apt command with the appropriate package name. Verifying the installation by checking the Python version and ensuring that the installation process was successful is crucial before moving forward with any Python development projects.

In the event that users encounter challenges during the installation, it is essential to employ troubleshooting techniques to identify and resolve the issues. For instance, users may face conflicts with existing Python installations or encounter errors related to package dependencies. By carefully examining error messages, searching online forums for solutions, or seeking assistance from the developer community, users can address these issues effectively and continue with the Python 3.9 installation process.

Installing Python 3.9 on Ubuntu 20.04 offers users access to the latest features and improvements in the Python programming language. By following a systematic approach, being mindful of potential issues, and applying troubleshooting strategies when needed, users can successfully set up Python 3.9 on their Ubuntu system and embark on their coding journey with confidence and efficiency.

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By Shaun A
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Hello and welcome to my blog! My name is Shaun, In this blog, you'll find a treasure trove of information about Linux commands. Whether you're a seasoned Linux user or just starting out on your journey, I aim to provide valuable insights, tips, and tutorials to help you navigate the world of Linux with confidence.
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