# Things to Check Before Running Python Projects on Windows

Python is relatively easy to install on Windows, but a working installation is only the beginning. Before running larger scripts or projects, it is useful to verify a few basic settings.

These checks can prevent common problems involving Python versions, PATH configuration, packages, and project environments.

## Check Which Python Version Is Installed

Open Command Prompt or Windows Terminal and run:

`python --version`

Depending on the installation, you can also try:

`py --version`

The displayed version should match the version you expect to use for your project.

## Confirm Python Works From the Terminal

Being able to open Python from the Start menu does not always mean command-line tools can locate it correctly.

Try running:

`python`

If the Python interpreter starts normally, the command is available from your current environment.

If Windows cannot find Python, check the installation and PATH configuration.

## Use the Correct Windows Installer

Windows users should choose an installer that matches their system architecture and project requirements.

For a walkthrough covering installation and Windows setup, see this [Python download for Windows 11 and 10](https://abdnova.com/python-download-for-windows/) guide.

## Keep Projects in Separate Folders

Avoid placing unrelated Python scripts and project files in one directory.

A simple structure such as:

`C:\Projects\Python`

makes projects easier to organize, back up, and manage.

Create a separate subfolder for each project.

## Use Virtual Environments

Different Python projects may require different versions of the same package.

A virtual environment keeps project dependencies separated from the main Python installation.

You can create one with:

`python -m venv .venv`

This is especially useful when testing libraries or maintaining several projects on the same computer.

## Check pip Before Installing Packages

Verify that pip is available:

`python -m pip --version`

Using `python -m pip` can also help ensure that packages are installed for the Python interpreter you intend to use.

## Avoid Running Unknown Scripts

Python scripts can execute commands, modify files, access network resources, and perform other actions on a computer.

Review scripts from unfamiliar sources before running them and download development tools from trusted or official sources whenever possible.

## Back Up Important Projects

Keep copies of important source files before changing environments, upgrading Python, or modifying dependencies.

Version control systems such as Git can also help track changes and restore earlier versions of a project.

## Final Thoughts

A reliable Python setup on Windows depends on more than completing the installer.

Checking the Python version, terminal access, pip, project folders, and virtual environments before starting development can prevent many common configuration problems later.