Installing Python 3 on CentOS 7 Using `yum`

CentOS 7, a widely used Linux distribution, typically ships with Python 2 by default. However, as Python 2 has reached its end of life, it is recommended to switch to Python 3 for better compatibility and support. In this guide, we’ll explore a straightforward method to install Python 3 on CentOS 7 using the `yum` package manager.

Step 1: Update the System

Start by ensuring your system is up-to-date. Open your terminal and run the following commands:

sudo yum update
sudo yum install epel-release

The first command updates your package information, and the second installs the Extra Packages for Enterprise Linux (EPEL) repository, which contains additional software packages not included in the default CentOS repositories.

Step 2: Install Python 3

With the EPEL repository in place, you can now install Python 3 using the `yum` package manager. Run the following command:

sudo yum install python3

This command fetches and installs Python 3 along with its dependencies. Once the process is complete, Python 3 is ready to use on your CentOS 7 system.

Step 3: Verify Installation

To ensure that Python 3 has been successfully installed, run the following command:

python3 –version

This command should display the version number of the installed Python 3. If you see the version information, congratulations – Python 3 is now installed on your system!

Step 4: Set Python 3 as Default (Optional)

If you prefer using Python 3 by default, create a symbolic link for the `python` command:

sudo ln -s /usr/bin/python3 /usr/bin/python

This step is optional and depends on your specific use case.

Conclusion

In just a few simple steps, you have successfully installed Python 3 on CentOS 7 using the `yum` package manager. This method is quick, efficient, and suitable for users who prefer a hassle-free installation process. Python 3 is now ready for you to use in your development projects and applications.

Remember that it’s always a good practice to refer to the official documentation for the latest information and updates. Happy coding!