Python

Installing Python using Anaconda/Miniconda

Anaconda is a software package for Python that offers a number of functionalities including package management (download and install Python packages from various web sources), and a virtual environment manager. The latter is a highly recommended practice as it allows you to define environments, which can each have a different Python version and installed packages. Anaconda comes with a number of GUI-based tools, including the Anaconda Navigator which can be used to install packages and create new environments.

Miniconda is a stripped down version of the Anaconda software and is primarily interacted with using the command line.

Installation

1. To install Anaconda or Miniconda, navigate to the download page.
2. Next either enter your email address or click on the (tiny) "Skip Registration" link.
3. Download the installer for either Anaconda or Miniconda (see descriptions above).
4. Double-click on the installer to begin the installation process.

Basic usage

Windows

1. Open the Anaconda Prompt application