Correct way of using user local Python environment under PEP668

In this Python tutorial, I am going to show you the correct way of using user local Python environment under PEP668.

PEP 668 focuses on ensuring Python packaging interoperability with system package managers. To maintain a clean and controlled environment for Python projects, it’s crucial to use virtual environments. This guide will walk you through creating and using a virtual environment in Python.

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Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: System Preparation

• Check Python Installation: Verify if Python is installed by running python3 --version in the terminal. If it’s not installed, download it from the Python official website.
• Install python3-full (Optional): Some users might need the complete set of Python tools and libraries provided by python3-full. This can be installed through your system’s package manager.

Step 2: Creating a Virtual Environment

• Create Environment: Execute the command:bash
  python3 -m venv path/to/venv Replace path/to/venv with your preferred directory path.

Step 3: Activating the Environment

• Activate: From your terminal, navigate to your virtual environment directory and activate it using:
  source path/to/venv/bin/activate Your terminal prompt should now indicate that the virtual environment is active.

Step 4: Working Inside the Virtual Environment

• Using Python: Inside the virtual environment, use:
  path/to/venv/bin/python for running Python scripts.
• Installing Packages: Install packages specifically for this environment using:
  path/to/venv/bin/pip This ensures that your global Python installation remains unaffected.

Alternative Approach: Using System Python with Pip

• The --break-system-packages Flag: If, for some reason, you decide to use the system Python and want to install packages system-wide, pip can be run with the --break-system-packages flag. However, this method is risky and can compromise the stability of your system Python environment.

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Conclusion

Utilizing a virtual environment in Python is a best practice for project isolation and dependency management, especially in the context of PEP 668. It safeguards your system Python installation from unwanted changes. Always prefer using a virtual environment over modifying the system-wide Python setup.

If you want to exit the virtual environment, simply type deactivate in the terminal. This will return you to your system’s default Python environment.