Step by Step Guide to Create a Virtual Environment in Python on Linux

Discover how to create a virtual environment in Python with this comprehensive guide.

Python is one of the most widely-used programming languages in the world. It offers a wide range of libraries, modules, and packages that can be used for various applications.

However, with the increasing number of packages and dependencies, it becomes important to maintain a clean and organized environment. This is where virtual environments come in.

Introduction

In Python, a virtual environment is a standalone setting where you can set up packages, execute code, and test programs without affecting your primary Python installation.

You can maintain project organization is making sure that each project has its own set of dependencies so that they don’t interfere with one another using virtual environments.

Creating a Virtual Environment in Python

There are two methods for creating virtual environments in Python: using the venv module, and using the virtualenv package.

Method 1: Using venv module

Python 3. x comes with a built-in module called venv that makes it simple to create virtual environments. Use the venv module to build a virtual environment by doing the following steps:

Run the below command to establish a virtual environment. Your virtual environment’s name should be substituted for myenv.

python -m venv myenv

Run the following command to activate the virtual environment for Linux as well as mac users.

source myenv/bin/activate

Method 2: Using virtualenv package

A third-party software called virtualenv can be used to build virtual environments in Python. Use the virtualenv package to build a virtual environment by doing the following steps:

Run the following command to install the virtualenv package, Your virtual environment’s name should be substituted for myenv.

pip configure virtualenv

Run the following command to activate the virtual environment

source myenv/bin/activate

Deactivating and Deleting the Virtual Environment

You might want to deactivate or destroy a virtual environment after you are done with it. Simply use the following command in the command line to disable the virtual environment:

deactivate

This will return you to the system’s Python environment.

Conclusion

Python’s virtual environments are an effective tool for managing your projects’ dependencies.

No matter what other programs or versions are installed on your computer, you can use them to isolate your projects and make sure they function as intended. You can prevent disputes, ensure that your projects are portable, and make them simple to share with others by using virtual environments.

If my articles on TipsonUNIX have helped you, kindly consider buying me a coffee as a token of appreciation

Thank You for your support!!