Installing Python

We work with conda to download and install python and python packages. In addition conda offers “environments” to separate the used packages. For example, you may have one environment with NumPy 1.7, and another environment with NumPy 1.6.

Note

There are several ways to install python. We are using conda because it also handles non-python dependencies.

Requirements

  • 5 GB of disk space

  • an internet connection

  • a reasonably fast laptop

Installing miniforge

We use miniforge a free minimal installer for conda.

Windows

Download and execute Miniforge for windows.

After the download double click it on the file browser. Keep the defaults:

  • Install for “Just Me”.

  • Make sure “Create start menu shortcuts” is ticked

Warning

  • Certain browser may block the download - try another browser.

  • Once completed don’t move the installation folder.

  • If your username contains a space the installation in the default location will fail. To fix, open the File Explorer and manually create a miniforge folder under C: This PC ‣ Local Disk (C:) ‣ Right Click ‣ New ‣ Folder.

Mac OS and Linux

Open a terminal, and execute the following commands. This will (1) navigate to the Download folder, (2) download the installer, and (3) install miniforge:

cd ~/Downloads

curl -L -O "https://github.com/conda-forge/miniforge/releases/latest/download/Miniforge3-$(uname)-$(uname -m).sh"

bash Miniforge3-$(uname)-$(uname -m).sh

Confirm all questions:

  • You will need to accept the license agreement.

  • You can keep the default location for the installation.

  • Answer “yes” to “Do you wish to update your shell profile to automatically initialize conda?”?