How to Download and Install Python 3.10 on Windows

Python 3.10 can still be downloaded and installed for Windows using the official Python Software Foundation website. While newer versions like Python 3.14 are available, some projects may specifically require Python 3.10. As of late 2025, Python 3.10 only receives security fixes until its end-of-life in October 2026. If you don’t have a strict dependency on this version, it’s recommended to install a more recent release.

🛠 Step-by-Step Download and Installation Process for Python 3.10

1. Navigate to the Official Python Website

Open your web browser and go to: python.org/downloads/windows
This page lists all Python releases specifically for Windows.

2. Locate the Python 3.10 Release

Scroll until you find a Python 3.10 version, for example Python 3.10.19. Click on the link to open the dedicated release page.

3. Download the Correct Installer

Scroll to the Files section.
For most modern Windows PCs, download Windows installer (64-bit).
For older 32-bit systems, download Windows installer (32-bit).

4. Run the Installer

Double-click the downloaded .exe file to launch the setup wizard.

5. Crucial Step: Add to PATH

Before clicking Install Now, check the box “Add python.exe to PATH”.
This allows running Python and pip from any directory in Command Prompt or PowerShell.

6. Start the Installation

Click Install Now to perform a standard installation, which includes:
- Standard Python libraries
- Package manager pip
- Integrated Development and Learning Environment (IDLE)

7. Complete the Installation

A progress bar will appear.
Once finished, you’ll see “Setup was successful”. Click Close.
Optional: For older installers, you may see “Disable path length limit” to handle long file paths.

✅ Verifying Your Installation

Open Command Prompt (Win + R, type cmd, Enter).
Type the following and press Enter:
```
python --version
```

If successful, it displays: Python 3.10.19 (or your chosen version).

✅ Verify pip is Installed

pip --version


🧠 **Tip:** If Python or pip is not recognized, check that you added Python to the **PATH** during installation.

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## ⚡ Why You Might Need Python 3.10

- **Dependency requirements:** Some legacy projects or libraries only work with Python 3.10.  
- **Reproducibility:** Ensures consistent environments for projects developed with Python 3.10.  
- **Version management:** Tools like `pyenv-win` allow installing multiple Python versions side-by-side for different projects.

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