How to Install Python 3 on CentOS

Are you tired of using an outdated version of Python on your CentOS system? Do you need multiple versions of Python running simultaneously without affecting other users or the system-installed Python? Installing Python 3 locally in your home directory is a great solution. In this article, we will guide you through the process of installing Python 3 on CentOS.

Step 1: Create an Alias for Python 3

The first step is to create an alias for Python 3 so that you can refer to it as `python3`. To do this, navigate to the directory where the local Python binary is located and run the following command:

```

cd ~/usr/local/bin

```

Then, create a symbolic link to the Python 3 executable:

```

alias python3=~/usr/local/bin/python3.3

```

Step 2: Add ~/usr/local/bin to Your $PATH

Next, you need to add `~/usr/local/bin` to your `$PATH` so that you don't have to enter the full path to the Python binary every time you want to use it.

To do this, run the following command:

```

export PATH=$PATH:~/usr/local/bin

```

Step 3: Compile and Install Python 3

Now, let's compile and install Python 3. First, navigate to the directory where you extracted the Python source code:

```

cd ~/Python-3.3.2

```

Then, run the following command to compile and install Python:

```

make altinstall prefix=$HOME/usr/local exec-prefix=$HOME/usr/local

```

Step 4: Modify Your $PATH

After installing Python 3, you need to modify your `$PATH` to include the new installation directory. Run the following command:

```

export PATH=$PATH:$HOME/usr/local/bin

```

Why Install Local Python 3?

There are several reasons why you might want to install local Python 3 on your CentOS system. Some of these reasons include:

* You need multiple versions of Python running simultaneously without affecting other users or the system-installed Python.

* You want to run private/personal scripts without affecting other users on the system.

* You don't want to touch the system-installed Python.

By following these steps, you can install Python 3 locally in your home directory and start using it immediately. This is a great solution for CentOS users who need more control over their Python installations.

Install python3 centos