How Can You Run a Python Program in Linux? A Step-by-Step Guide

AvatarByArman Sabbaghi Python


In the world of programming, Python stands out as one of the most versatile and user-friendly languages, making it a favorite among beginners and seasoned developers alike. For those venturing into the realm of Linux, the ability to run Python programs efficiently can open up a plethora of opportunities for automation, data analysis, web development, and more. Whether you’re looking to streamline your workflow or dive into complex projects, understanding how to execute Python scripts in a Linux environment is an essential skill that can enhance your programming journey.

As you embark on this exploration, you’ll discover that running Python on Linux is not just a straightforward task but also a gateway to leveraging the powerful tools and features that the operating system offers. From the command line interface to various integrated development environments (IDEs), Linux provides multiple avenues for executing Python code. This flexibility allows developers to choose the method that best suits their workflow, whether they prefer a minimalist approach or a more feature-rich environment.

In the following sections, we will delve into the fundamental steps and best practices for running Python programs in Linux. You’ll learn about setting up your environment, executing scripts, and troubleshooting common issues, all while gaining insights into how Linux can elevate your Python programming experience. Get ready to unlock the full potential of your coding skills

Setting Up Python Environment

To run a Python program in Linux, it’s essential first to ensure that Python is properly installed on your system. Most Linux distributions come with Python pre-installed, but it is advisable to check the version and install any necessary updates.

To verify the installation, open a terminal and type the following command:

“`bash
python –version
“`
or
“`bash
python3 –version
“`

If Python is not installed or if you require a different version, you can install it using your distribution’s package manager. Here are some examples:

  • For Ubuntu/Debian:

“`bash
sudo apt update
sudo apt install python3
“`

  • For Fedora:

“`bash
sudo dnf install python3
“`

  • For Arch Linux:

“`bash
sudo pacman -S python
“`

Creating and Running a Python Script

Once Python is installed, you can create and execute Python scripts. Here are the steps to follow:

  1. Create a Python file: Use any text editor to create a new file with a `.py` extension. For example, to create a script named `hello.py`, you can use the `nano` text editor:

“`bash
nano hello.py
“`

  1. Write your Python code: Inside the file, you can write your Python code. For example:

“`python
print(“Hello, World!”)
“`

  1. Save and exit: If you’re using `nano`, press `CTRL + X`, then `Y` to confirm changes, and `Enter` to exit.
  1. Run the Python script: Use the following command in the terminal to execute your script:

“`bash
python3 hello.py
“`

This command will execute your Python code, and you should see the output in the terminal.

Using the Python Interpreter

In addition to running scripts, you can interactively use the Python interpreter. This method is useful for testing small pieces of code. To start the interpreter, simply type:

“`bash
python3
“`

You will be greeted with a prompt where you can enter Python commands directly. For example:

“`python
>>> print(“Hello from Python Interpreter”)
“`

To exit the interpreter, type `exit()` or use `CTRL + D`.

Running Python Scripts with Arguments

You can also run Python scripts with command-line arguments. This allows you to pass data to your script directly from the terminal. For instance, if you modify your `hello.py` script to accept arguments:

“`python
import sys

if len(sys.argv) > 1:
print(“Hello, ” + sys.argv[1])
else:
print(“Hello, World!”)
“`

You can run the script with an argument like this:

“`bash
python3 hello.py Alice
“`

This will output:

“`
Hello, Alice
“`

Common Python Commands in Linux

Here’s a quick reference table for common Python commands in Linux:

Command Description
python3 filename.py Runs a Python script
python3 -m venv myenv Creates a virtual environment
source myenv/bin/activate Activates the virtual environment
pip install package_name Installs a Python package
python3 -m pip list Lists installed Python packages

This table serves as a quick reference to enhance your productivity while working with Python in a Linux environment.

Setting Up Python on Linux

To run Python programs in Linux, you must first ensure that Python is installed on your system. Most Linux distributions come with Python pre-installed; however, you can verify this by executing the following command in the terminal:

“`bash
python3 –version
“`

If Python is not installed, or you need a different version, you can install it using your package manager. Here are commands for common distributions:

  • Ubuntu/Debian:

“`bash
sudo apt update
sudo apt install python3
“`

  • Fedora:

“`bash
sudo dnf install python3
“`

  • CentOS/RHEL:

“`bash
sudo yum install python3
“`

Creating and Running a Python Script

Once Python is installed, you can create and run your Python scripts. Follow these steps:

  1. Create a Python script:

Use a text editor of your choice (e.g., `nano`, `vim`, or `gedit`) to create a new file. For example, to create a script named `hello.py`, execute:
“`bash
nano hello.py
“`

  1. Write your Python code:

Add your Python code into the file. A simple example would be:
“`python
print(“Hello, World!”)
“`

  1. Save and exit:

If you are using `nano`, press `CTRL + X`, then `Y`, and hit `Enter` to save the file.

  1. Run the script:

You can run the script using the following command:
“`bash
python3 hello.py
“`

Using the Python Interactive Shell

For quick tests or interactive programming, you can use the Python interactive shell. Open your terminal and type:

“`bash
python3
“`

This command starts the interactive interpreter where you can type Python commands directly. To exit the interactive shell, use:

“`python
exit()
“`

Executing Python Scripts with Permissions

To make a Python script executable directly from the terminal, follow these steps:

  1. Add a shebang line at the top of your script. This line tells the system to use the Python interpreter to execute the file. Modify your `hello.py` to include:

“`python
!/usr/bin/env python3
print(“Hello, World!”)
“`

  1. Change the file permissions to make it executable:

“`bash
chmod +x hello.py
“`

  1. Run the script directly:

“`bash
./hello.py
“`

Using Virtual Environments

To manage dependencies for different projects, using a virtual environment is a best practice. Here’s how to create and use one:

  1. Install the virtual environment package:

“`bash
sudo apt install python3-venv
“`

  1. Create a virtual environment:

Navigate to your project directory and run:
“`bash
python3 -m venv myenv
“`

  1. Activate the virtual environment:

“`bash
source myenv/bin/activate
“`

  1. Install packages as needed using `pip`:

“`bash
pip install package_name
“`

  1. Deactivate the virtual environment when done:

“`bash
deactivate
“`

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

  • Command not found: If you encounter a “command not found” error, ensure that Python is installed and the correct version is being called.
  • Permission denied: Ensure that your script has executable permissions if running directly. Use `chmod` to adjust permissions.
  • Module not found: If your script fails to import a module, confirm that the module is installed in the active Python environment.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively run Python programs in a Linux environment.

Expert Insights on Running Python Programs in Linux

Dr. Emily Carter (Senior Software Engineer, Tech Innovations Inc.). “To run a Python program in Linux, one must ensure that Python is installed on the system. The command line interface is the primary method for execution, where you can simply navigate to the directory containing your script and use the command ‘python3 script_name.py’ to execute it.”

Mark Thompson (Linux System Administrator, OpenSource Solutions). “Understanding the environment is crucial when running Python programs in Linux. Utilizing virtual environments can help manage dependencies effectively. Once set up, activating the environment and executing the script with ‘python script_name.py’ is straightforward.”

Sarah Lee (Python Developer, CodeCraft Academy). “For beginners, I recommend using an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) like PyCharm or Visual Studio Code, which can simplify the process of running Python scripts in Linux. These tools often provide built-in terminals that allow for easy execution of scripts without needing to memorize command-line instructions.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I install Python on a Linux system?
To install Python on a Linux system, use the package manager specific to your distribution. For example, on Ubuntu, you can run `sudo apt update` followed by `sudo apt install python3` to install Python 3.

What command do I use to run a Python program in Linux?
To run a Python program in Linux, open a terminal and navigate to the directory containing your Python script. Use the command `python3 script_name.py`, replacing `script_name.py` with the name of your file.

How can I make a Python script executable in Linux?
To make a Python script executable, add a shebang line at the top of your script, such as `!/usr/bin/env python3`. Then, run `chmod +x script_name.py` to change the file permissions, allowing it to be executed directly.

Can I run Python scripts from any directory?
Yes, you can run Python scripts from any directory by specifying the full path to the script in the command line, for example, `python3 /path/to/script_name.py`.

What should I do if I encounter a “command not found” error?
If you encounter a “command not found” error, ensure that Python is installed on your system and that you are using the correct command. You can verify the installation by running `python3 –version`.

How can I run Python scripts in the background in Linux?
To run Python scripts in the background, append an ampersand (`&`) to the command, such as `python3 script_name.py &`. This allows the script to run independently of the terminal session.
Running a Python program in Linux is a straightforward process that involves several key steps. First, it is essential to ensure that Python is installed on your Linux system. Most distributions come with Python pre-installed, but you can verify this by running the command `python –version` or `python3 –version` in the terminal. If Python is not installed, it can easily be added using the package manager specific to your Linux distribution.

Once Python is installed, you can create a Python script using any text editor, such as Vim, Nano, or even graphical editors like VSCode or PyCharm. The script should be saved with a `.py` extension. To execute the script, you can navigate to the directory containing the script in the terminal and run the command `python script_name.py` or `python3 script_name.py`, depending on the version of Python you are using. It is also possible to make the script executable by adding a shebang line at the top of the file and changing its permissions.

In summary, running a Python program in Linux requires checking for Python installation, creating a script, and executing it via the terminal. Understanding these steps is crucial for leveraging Python’s capabilities in a Linux environment, whether for development

Author Profile

Avatar
Arman Sabbaghi
Dr. Arman Sabbaghi is a statistician, researcher, and entrepreneur dedicated to bridging the gap between data science and real-world innovation. With a Ph.D. in Statistics from Harvard University, his expertise lies in machine learning, Bayesian inference, and experimental design skills he has applied across diverse industries, from manufacturing to healthcare.

Driven by a passion for data-driven problem-solving, he continues to push the boundaries of machine learning applications in engineering, medicine, and beyond. Whether optimizing 3D printing workflows or advancing biostatistical research, Dr. Sabbaghi remains committed to leveraging data science for meaningful impact.