Installing Python#
Looking to get started with Python on your own computer? You can install Python on your computer, or work with Python through computational notebooks online. For most RCDS workshops , either option will work well.
Python is also available on Quest.
Mac users
Python is installed on Macs automatically, but the default installation is likely to be of an older version of Python. Managing Python packages with your system Python installation can also create some issues. It is better to install Python again using the instructions below.
Installing Python via Anaconda#
To install Python on your computer, install a software bundle called Anaconda. It will install a current version of Python plus other useful software.
Install from the Anaconda website . Provide your email address; you will receive an email with a download link. Anaconda should be able to identify which operating system you are using, but you can also choose a different option once you click on the link in the email.
Choose the Graphical Installer for Anaconda. There are different Mac installers if you have an Intel chip or an Apple chip. If you’re not sure which chip your laptop has, click on the Apple () menu > About This Mac. Look at the information for “Processor”; if it includes “Intel”, then you have an older Intel Mac. If it does not include “Intel”, you have an Apple silicon Mac.
Most Windows computers will require the 64-bit version of Anaconda. Some Windows computers built before mid-2020 are 32-bit. If you have a 32-bit computer you will need the 32-bit version of Anaconda, which you can find by looking at the archives for an installer called Anaconda3-2022.05-Windows-x86.exe. If you’re not sure which you have, but you are having trouble with the 64-bit version, try the 32-bit version. 64-bit vs. 32-bit Windows has nothing to do with how fancy your computer is; you may not know which you have if your computer was built 2020 or earlier.
Once you get Anaconda installed, open the Anaconda Navigator app, then from there, open Jupyter Lab. Jupyter Lab will open in your web browser, but it does not actually need the Internet to work. Launch a new Python Notebook. If this works, you’re good to go. Note that you may see multiple Jupyter applications in the Navigator – please select Jupyter Lab.
If you cannot install Anaconda on your computer or if you have too many issues with the installation, don’t worry! You can access and use the materials online. Workshop instructors can help you troubleshoot the Anaconda installation during breaks, or use the Data Science, Statistics, and Visualization consultation service .
Updating Python#
For workshops, you’ll want to use a current version of Python to ensure that you have access to all of the current features in the language. Currently, Python versions >= 3.9 will work for most workshops.
You generally do not update Python installations. Instead, you create a new virtual environment with a more current version of Python and use that virtual environment.
If you installed Anaconda a while ago, you can update the Anaconda software, which does not update Python itself. When you open Anaconda Navigator, there should be an “Update Now” link that shows on your primary dashboard/launch page. Updating Anaconda Navigator does not update the base Python installation.
Using Google Colab#
Google Colab is a free cloud tool for opening Jupyter Notebooks or creating similar files. For many RCDS workshops that use Python, you can open and run the files with Google Colab in your Internet browser and do not need to install Python on your own computer. You do need to sign in to Google, but it can be with a personal account (a Northwestern account is not needed).
Note
Google Colab should only be used with code or data that is OK to be public. It is not an approved service to support Northwestern research incorporating non-public data.