If you've ever tried installing Python on Windows, you know it can feel like navigating a maze of confusing choices. Traditional .exe installers, Windows Store packages, NuGet, and embeddable distributions all come with their own quirks and limitations.
Enter PEP 773 and its proposed solution: PyManager, a unified installation manager poised to revolutionize how Python is managed on Windows.
What Makes PyManager a Game-Changer?
The current landscape leaves both beginners and power users frustrated. Traditional installers require admin rights and are dated, while Store and NuGet packages lack flexibility or cater only to experts. PyManager aims to address these pain points by delivering a modern, streamlined experience for everyone.
- Everyday users benefit from one-click installs, automatic updates, no need for admin access, and an immediately available ‘python’ command.
- Advanced users enjoy scriptable installs, multi-version management, clean environments, and the ability to tailor configurations.
How PyManager Works Under the Hood
Distributed via both python.org and the Windows Store as an MSIX package, PyManager ensures consistency no matter where it’s downloaded. Rather than bundling Python itself, it provides global commands like python.exe, python3.exe, py.exe, and pymanager.exe. These commands can locate, launch, or install Python as needed, making the process seamless.
- Default commands: ‘python’ runs the default interpreter; ‘py’ manages multiple versions.
- Subcommands: Intuitive commands like
install,uninstall,list, andhelpmake management simple.- Automatic installation: If the needed Python version isn’t present, PyManager installs it on demand.
- Integration: Handles environment variables and shortcuts for out-of-the-box script compatibility.
Out with the Old, In with the New
PyManager’s introduction means the traditional .exe installer and py.exe launcher are going away over the next two years. The embeddable distribution will only be available through PyManager, and Windows Store packages will be replaced. For special cases, MSI and ZIP files remain, but they’re discouraged for everyday use.
Key Features That Set PyManager Apart
- Exec subcommand: Lets users pick runtimes flexibly, supporting tags, shebangs, and virtual environments.
- Install/uninstall: Easily add, upgrade, or remove any Python version, or clean house entirely.
- List: See all installed versions, with both user-friendly and machine-readable views.
- Configuration: JSON-based files support customization for users and organizations, including custom package indexes and policies.
- Security: Runs with user privileges and respects enterprise controls via admin settings.
Compatibility and Migration Concerns
While PyManager is designed to play nicely with existing installs and detect old runtimes when possible, some advanced setups (like per-machine installs or scripted deployments) may need tweaks. The transition aims to minimize headaches while nudging users toward a simpler, more robust approach.
Making the Switch: What Users and Maintainers Should Expect
For most users, getting started is as easy as typing ‘python’, PyManager handles the details. Project maintainers can look forward to clearer documentation, focusing on standard commands and best practices for virtual environments. Advanced options remain available for those who need them.
Other Options Considered and Why They Fell Short
- Updating the traditional installer or sticking with Store/MSI/ZIP packages wasn’t sustainable or flexible enough for the future.
- Limiting PyManager’s distribution to a single source would have excluded key user groups.
- Expanding to platforms beyond Windows is out of scope for now due to unique technical challenges.
The Bottom Line
PEP 773 and PyManager mark a major leap forward for Python on Windows, promising a simpler, more reliable, and future-proof installation process. By consolidating workflows and embracing modern deployment, PyManager makes Python as accessible on Windows as anywhere else.
PyManager and PEP 773 Are Improving Python Installation on Windows