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Asked: 2024-09-24T13:28:07+05:30 In: , ,

What is the process to install a previous version of Python on Ubuntu 22.04?

I’m in a bit of a pickle and could really use some help from the community. So I recently upgraded my Ubuntu to 22.04, thinking it would be all smooth sailing. But then, out of nowhere, I found out that the project I’ve been working on is totally incompatible with the latest version of Python that came with it. Classic, right?

I mean, I get that it’s good to keep everything up to date, but it’s like some of the packages I rely on just don’t play nicely with the new version. I’ve tried looking up how to run multiple Python versions on Ubuntu, and there’s a ton of info out there, but honestly, it’s a bit overwhelming. I’m particularly interested in installing, say, Python 3.8 or maybe even Python 3.9. But the official repos don’t seem to have them, or maybe I’m just missing something.

I’ve considered using pyenv or even Docker, but that feels like a bigger hassle than I’m ready for right now. I’d really love to just install a previous version directly so I can get back to work without the constant headaches. Has anyone gone through this same situation? What’s your go-to method for downgrading Python on Ubuntu 22.04? Is there a simple command that can do the trick, or do I need to jump through a bunch of hoops to make it happen?

I’d appreciate any step-by-step advice or even just pointers to the right resources. You know, something that won’t leave me scratching my head for hours on end. Also, if you’ve faced this compatibility nightmare before, how did it turn out for you? Any tips on how to manage multiple Python versions without messing up the whole system? I’m all ears! Looking forward to your suggestions so I can get back on track. Thanks!

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    2 Answers


    1. Your predicament is a common one among developers, especially when upgrading to a new version of Ubuntu. To install a specific version of Python, like 3.8 or 3.9, you can utilize the deadsnakes PPA, which is a popular repository for older Python versions. First, open your terminal and add the repository by executing: sudo add-apt-repository ppa:deadsnakes/ppa. After adding the PPA, update your package list with sudo apt update and then proceed to install the desired version of Python: sudo apt install python3.8 or sudo apt install python3.9. This will allow you to seamlessly work with the Python version that is compatible with your project.

      Once installed, you might want to set the newly installed version as the default for your terminal session. You can do this without disrupting the system Python by using update-alternatives. Execute: sudo update-alternatives --install /usr/bin/python3 python3 /usr/bin/python3.x 1 (replace ‘3.x’ with the version you’ve installed). To switch between different versions, run: sudo update-alternatives --config python3 and select the version you want to use. This approach streamlines the process of using multiple Python versions without the hassle of containers or complex setups. If you encounter compatibility issues, consider creating isolated virtual environments using venv or virtualenv, allowing you to manage dependencies more effectively for each of your projects.







    2. Help with Python on Ubuntu 22.04

      Oh man, I feel you!

      Upgrading your OS and running into Python version issues can really be a bummer. Here’s a simple way to get Python 3.8 or 3.9 on Ubuntu 22.04 without losing your mind.

      Using Deadsnakes PPA

      The Deadsnakes PPA is a great source for getting different Python versions easily. You can install it and then get Python 3.8 or 3.9 like this:

      1. Open up your terminal (Ctrl + Alt + T).
      2. Add the Deadsnakes PPA by running: 
        sudo add-apt-repository ppa:deadsnakes/ppa
      3. Update your package list: 
        sudo apt update
      4. Now, install Python 3.8 or Python 3.9: 
        sudo apt install python3.8
        sudo apt install python3.9

      Switching Between Versions

      After you’ve installed the version you want, you can switch between versions using update-alternatives. Here’s how:

      1. Run: 
        sudo update-alternatives --install /usr/bin/python3 python3 /usr/bin/python3.8 1

        (if you installed 3.8)

      2. And for 3.9: 
        sudo update-alternatives --install /usr/bin/python3 python3 /usr/bin/python3.9 2
      3. To choose which one to use, run: 
        sudo update-alternatives --config python3
      4. Follow the prompts to pick your desired version.

      Virtual Environments

      If you start using different projects, it’s a good idea to use virtual environments. They help keep dependencies separate so you won’t run into version issues again. You can set up a virtual environment for a specific Python version using:

      python3.8 -m venv myenv

      or

      python3.9 -m venv myenv

      Then, activate it with:

      source myenv/bin/activate

      When you want to leave the environment, just type `deactivate`.

      Wrap Up

      This should help you get back on track! Just remember that juggling Python versions can be a bit tricky, but it gets easier with practice. Good luck, and let the community know how it goes—maybe someone else will benefit from your experience too!


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